Thoughts on the Bracket – From the Bird’s Nest

Just about every year, I go ahead and fill out a bracket BEFORE the teams are revealed for the NCAA tournament.  But this year, time restraints wouldn't permit it.  But, as I looked at the bracket last night I didn't see a lot that surprised me.

Although I mentioned on the show this week that I didn't think Middle Tennessee would get in as an at-large team, I had changed my mind after four or five bubble teams played their way out of the tournament field.  (Three of them from the SEC.).  The fact Ole Miss won the SEC tournament didn't hurt their case, since the Blue Raiders beat the Rebels in non-conference action.

I wasn't surprised by the teams that were awarded #1 seeds.  There are many who suggested Miami should be a #1 ahead of Gonzaga, but I've watched the Zags play.  I'm not saying they're not a tad overvalued, but this is a REALLY good club.

Not surprised Western Kentucky was a 16 seed.  Again.  And, yes, they're rated below Albany and Florida Gulf Coast.  Ouch.

I think any of the top three seeds in each region could win the whole thing.  And, I think Syracuse and Saint Louis as #4 seeds could be in the Final Four.

I don't like the 5/12 matchups this year.  That's frequently a place to find a potential Cinderella team advancing to the Sweet 16.  This year the only #12 seed I like is Oregon, and I'm scratching my head as to why this team is seeded as low as they are.

If youre looking at some potential upsets, look to the 6/11 matchups this year.  Everyone loves Butler.  They're to the average fan what Gonzaga was a decade ago.  But I'll caution everyone not to overlook Bucknell.  They're a very good club and we know what the Patriot League champion did in the first round last year, right coach K?

Middle Tennessee, if they get by St. Mary's, has a winnable game against Memphis, and, I really like Belmont to beat Arizona.

Just for grins, yet me give you four:  Louisville, Ohio State, Florida, Syracuse