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Bracketology 2023: Clemson, Illinois, and NC State among biggest winners

By Tristan Freeman

BLACKSBURG, VA - JANUARY 4: Members of the Clemson Tigers mens basketball team react following a win against the Virginia Tech Hokies at Cassell Coliseum on January 4, 2023 in Blacksburg, Virginia. (Photo by Ryan Hunt/Getty Images)
BLACKSBURG, VA - JANUARY 4: Members of the Clemson Tigers mens basketball team react following a win against the Virginia Tech Hokies at Cassell Coliseum on January 4, 2023 in Blacksburg, Virginia. (Photo by Ryan Hunt/Getty Images) /
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Bracketology Boise State Broncos guard Max Rice Troy Babbitt-USA TODAY Sports
Bracketology Boise State Broncos guard Max Rice Troy Babbitt-USA TODAY Sports /

Boise State Broncos

it’s not a surprise that San Diego State has the No. 1 NET ranking in the Mountain West. But the No. 2 team isn’t one of the three last unbeaten teams (New Mexico, UNLV, Utah State) but rather Boise State, who was at 25 entering Saturday. That’s due to the big 18-point road win at UNLV, followed by a comfortable road win at Wyoming this weekend.

The metrics for the Broncos are very favorable, with wins over Colorado, Texas A&M, and Saint Louis in the non-conference. Their lone blemish is a Quad 4 home loss to South Dakota State to begin the season. But with a 7-3 record against Quad 1/2 opponents and many more in the Mountain West to boost it up, Boise State is in a solid position.

Florida Atlantic Owls

When looking at mid-major teams with genuine at-large hopes, the Owls of Conference USA stand out. They’re 16-1 overall, with just a road loss at Ole Miss. They also have wins at Florida, at North Texas, and UAB. They have a shockingly high NET ranking at around 15, with elite metrics. But they were in danger this week, with needing overtime to beat Florida International and having to face the Mean Green again.

Next. Top 10 Player of the Year rankings. dark

But FAU once again found a way to win, with the 66-62 season sweep of North Texas. That’s one of the two hardest opponents in league play for the Owls and they’re already done with them. It’s a team that can afford a loss or two in Conference USA and got through this week without needing one of those mulligans. One of the biggest NCAA Basketball and Bracketology surprises remains firmly in the at-large conversation.

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