Finally, some separation. One word of advice for the field...consistency. That is what has provided this level of separation.
1. Weber State. The 'Cats have a two game lead with three left. Thanks to Steve Panos who came through in the clutch when the Bears had Lillard figured out. If they take care of business at home on Saturday night against the Bengals, they can wrap up the title with a split on the Northwest tip at the end of the season.
2. Northern Colorado. A run at the end of the game got them within a point, but not close enough to pull into a tie in the standings with Weber State. As a consolation prize, however, they probably have an NIT bid in their back pocket if they do not win the conference tournament. Their resume is impressive enough. If nothing else, win out and hope Weber State trips...twice.
3. Montana. You can never count anyone out, and you have to play consistent. The loss to Eastern Washington cost the Grizzlies any hope of a share of the conference championship. It was also the type of bad loss that you do not want if you are trying to impress the NIT or CBI selection committees.
4. Montana State. The Bobcats also bit the dust in Cheney this last weekend. They will need to win the BSC tournament and get the automatic bid to the big dance to play deep into March.
5. Portland State. The Vikings sneak ahead of NAU because they are on a shorter losing streak than the Lumberjacks. The Vikings and the Lumberjacks get to settle the score in Flagsaff this weekend.
6. Northern Arizona. Nearly bowled a split on the road this week but dropped a heart breaker in Pocatello on Saturday. The good news is home games this weekend.
7. Idaho State. The Bengals are real close to breaking into the tournament. They are only one game out, but the next step in the uphill battle is a big one in Ogden. Even a loss to their rival will not eliminate them this weekend. The Bengals really could sneak into the tourney, after all.
8. Eastern Washington. Seems the Eagles know what time of year it is as well. They swept the Montana teams at home this weekend. They need to keep up this sense of urgency. They have NAU and NCU on the road this week. Drop them both, and they will be watching the tournament from home.
9. Sacramento State. Mathematically, the Hornets are still alive as well. They were probably rooting hard for NAU in the OT game. But they have to travel to Montana this weekend. Could be eliminated this weekend as well.
Games this week:
Thursday:
Portland State at Northern Arizona
Sacramento State at Montana State
Eastern Washington at Northern Colorado
Saturday:
Idaho State at Weber State
Sacramento State at Montana
Eastern Washington at Northern Arizona
San Jose State at Montana State
Portland State at Northern Colorado
Tuesday:
Johnson and Wales at Northern Colorado
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