Over on MVCfans.com, there's a thread about the College Sports Madness Top 144 Predictions. They have UNI winning the MVC, ranked #86 out of the top 144, and earning a 14 seed autobid to the NCAA Tournament. Missouri State comes in at #100, Bradley is #114, and
Loyola checks in at #130. Murray State checks in at #96, for those interested in MVC expansion.
It's WAY early (not even a complete schedule out), but I thought I'd pick out what everyone's thoughts are. Based on my opinion, my limited knowledge, my gut, etc., I see the field this year in three main groups:
Top contenders: Missouri State, Bradley, Loyola. These three teams will almost certainly win 10 games or more. They're the most experienced teams, the most apt to win big games in crunch time, and have the most mojo headed into the season. Unfortunately, the early scheduling glimpses from these teams shows a very narrow pathway to automatic bid territory. One of these teams will have to win a big early game to get on the radar for at large consideration, and then they'll have to finish near the top of the league for a chance at an auto.
Middle of the pack: UNI, SIU, Drake. These teams could jump into the mix among the top three, especially if any of them have a key injury. All three have impressive coaches, two of whom have shown they can make something out of a bad hand, and one that is one of the most admired and sought-after assistants in the Midwest. Any of these teams could probably still pull off a hot streak in St. Louis that could get them into the tournament.
The pretty good also-rans: Evansville, ISUr, ISUb, Valpo. At least two of these teams might be not so bad this year. Excitement is running high in Evansville, and the recruits are pretty impressive. There's a lot of coaching experience at the two ISUs. Valpo has a lot of pieces and the opportunity to take a new approach this season.
That's how I see it right now. Opinions?