6. Jackson State SWAC: 9-7 (Last Week: 6) (Last Weekend's Record: 1-1) (Upcoming Games: 3/7 vs UAPB 3/9 vs MVSU)
Jackson State brings us to the point of the rankings where the contenders reside. A 1-1 weekend keeps the Tigers at number 6. Saturday's game was a missed opportunity as JSU couldn't keep their foot on Texas Southern. Ultimately losing 80-70. Ken Evans led the way with 19 points. Against PVU, the Tigers trailed early then held on to win. Ken Evans helped the Tigers get the win with 23 points. Everything wrong that could happen to JSU this season did happen. Winning streaks, losing streaks and injuries describe this season. I still think this is a dangerous team. Without much room for movement, I believe the Tigers get the 6 seed.
5. Bethune-Cookman SWAC: 10-7 (Last Week: 5) (Last Weekend's Record: 1-1) (Upcoming Game: 3/9 @FAMU)
This was a productive weekend for the Wildcats, getting a valuable road split. Bethune-Cookman had to come from behind in the second half to defeat Southern. Dhashon Dyson led the way with 23 points. On Monday the Wildcats couldn't get much going as Grambling took care of business. Dyson was the leading scorer with 15 points. BCU is solidly in the tournament, the only question is where will they be seeded? At worst, they get the 5 seed at best at least the 3 seed. I predict the 5 seed is in their future.
4. Southern SWAC: 11-5 (Last Week: 4) (Last Weekend's Record: 1-1) (Upcoming Games: 3/7 @AlaSU 3/9 @AAMU)
The Jaguars final homestand was disappointing to say the least. Southern needed both of these wins but it wasn't to be. The Bethune-Cookman game was a familiar sight as the Jags blew another second half lead. Derrick Tezeno scored 12 points for the Jags. Southern rode a strong defensive effort to a double digit victory over FAMU. Dre'Shawn Allen tallied 14 points off the bench. Southern must find some consistency (especially at the free throw line) if they want to grab that 2 seed. I think they come up short and get the 4 seed.