Bracketology 2023: Ranking all 18 teams on the bubble in terms of safety
By Joey Loose
Utah State: 25-7 (13-5 in MWC) NET: 22
Despite that very impressive NET figure, Utah State is not entirely safe just yet, though they should be feeling more and more comfortable with each passing day. The unfortunate truth is that they entered play today with just a single Quad 1 win, which came against Boise State in their regular season finale last Saturday. They were swept by San Diego State and lost tough Quad 4 games to Weber State and SMU way back in December, but it’s not all bad news for the Aggies.
Their quarterfinals win over New Mexico in the MWC Tournament likely killed any chances the Lobos have of making the Big Dance, thus helping secure Utah State’s place in the field. They’ve now won six games in a row and have a very important rematch with Boise State in the semifinals. The metrics really love the Aggies and the Selection Committee might already have them firmly in, but taking care of business again against the Broncos would get them that second Quad 1 win and guarantee a place in the field.
Providence: 21-11 (13-7 in Big East) NET: 53
The story of Providence truly is a mixed bag, especially when you compare their resume to some of these other bubble teams. This team looked firmly in the NCAA Tournament but has really fumbled down the stretch, losing their final three games of the season. They do have 4 Quad 1 victories, including wins over Connecticut, Creighton, and Marquette, but the metrics really don’t have them in the best position.
When you look at the total package, this looks like an NCAA Tournament team, but we have to look at more than just that. They lost to the Huskies in the quarterfinals of the Big East Tournament and will sit pat as other teams can improve their position around the Friars. The quality wins look great, but their play since the calendar hit March has been abysmal. Providence should be in the NCAA Tournament but if they don’t make the cut they have themselves to blame.