Mountain West Connection Bracketology: Week Three

The third week of Mountain West play is behind us, and not much has changed. Fresno State and Nevada both had showdowns with Boise State at Taco Bell Arena, and Air Force continues to look like they could cause some trouble when all is said and done. Utah State took care of business and hopes to have a say in the conference race, while the majority of the conference continues to look great one night and awful the next. Let’s take a look at how things are shaping up as we get one week closer to March.

Nevada: It may have taken a buzzer beater from Cody Martin, but the Wolf Pack came away with a victory over the Broncos last Tuesday. After watching multiple times, it is clear that their experience and athleticism cannot be matched by any team in the conference. One thing that continues to plague Nevada is their lack of depth; it was tested against Boise State and nearly cost them a victory. While they have had some close calls, I still project the Wolf Pack to win the Mountain West and to be a three seed in the West region of the NCAA tournament.

Fresno State: The Bulldogs didn’t do anything to hurt their cause this week, as they had a comfortable win over Boise State. Fresno State continues to look like a dangerous team under the leadership of dynamic scorer Deshon Taylor. I think Fresno State has an excellent chance at stealing an at-large spot. I currently project them as a twelve seed and playing in Dayton for a spot in the final 64.

Utah State: The Aggies continue to look solid, but they will need to beat the Wolf Pack or Fresno State in the second go around of conference games if they have any hope for an at-large bid. I still project them to be an NIT team and host a game as a three seed.

Are there any other teams that have a shot to reach the postseason? What are your thoughts?