Bracketology 2021: Creighton, Loyola-Chicago, Arkansas among big winners

VCU

While more and more mid-major teams and leagues slip under the radar these days, it’s been clear that the Atlantic 10 has established itself as the premier mid-major conference. The conference hasn’t been carried by one particular team, but almost always has multiple teams make the NCAA Tournament. As with Dayton’s emergence last season, there are always great teams and sometimes you don’t know which ones will stand out.

VCU, who was picked to finish 9th this season, certainly fits that bill. Nah’shon Hyland has been a star for the Rams, averaging greater than 20 points in their 5-game winning streak. This past week, that included a big road win at Dayton on Tuesday, their second win this season against the Flyers; and a grudge match with St. Bonaventure on Friday, where they avenged their most recent loss from back in January.

The Rams are now 15-4, with a very impressive 8-2 mark in A10 play. They scored early season wins over Memphis and Utah State in the Crossover Classic but will certainly depend on the remainder of conference play to build their resume. With their NET ranking up to 34, the Rams are certainly justifying a potential inclusion as an at-large bid.

With a pair of games with Richmond and a game with Saint Louis, there are still chances for VCU to further build their resume. They’ve taken the top spot in the A10 standings, but there are still three weeks left for things to change. VCU is building a legitimate at-large resume, and their two wins from this week will go a long way to secure that, especially against two other conference contenders.