I get the impression that most of you outside the Midwest think Big Ten basketball is a lost cause. I'd agree with you in the notion that "it's down," but I'd also remind you they've had as many Final Four teams over the last three years as any other (tied with the SEC at 3). It may not be aesthetically pleasing, but I wouldn't rule out another representative this year. What's at stake?
An opportunity for Wisconsin to prove themselves yet again and sneak into a 2-seed, although a 3 is more likely.
Michigan State and Indiana both need to shake off their inconsistencies down the stretch. Two teams that are more than capable of a long March run, but need a confidence boost to avoid what could just as easily be a first round exit. In case you're wondering, yes it is maddening to be a Spartan fan this year, but I'll remind you this team has the potential to be way better than the 2005 Final Four team.
Ohio State might be one of the last teams in at this point. Another win over the Spartans and they're a lock. A loss really shouldn't punish them, but who's to know what the committee thinks.
The rest of the Big Ten is not good. Let's hope none of them make a run. Although I wouldn't rule out some crazy Gopher varmint run.
Predictions
1st Round
9 Michigan over 8 Iowa
10 Illinois over 7 Penn St.
6 Minnesota over 11 Northwestern
Quarters
1 Wisconsin over 9 Michigan
4 Michigan St. over 5 Ohio St.
10 Illinois over 2 Purdue
3 Indiana over 6 Minnesota
Semis
4 Michigan St. over 1 Wisconsin
3 Indiana over 10 Illinois
3 Indiana over 4 Michigan St.
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