The first week of January is hardly the time to panic. But resumes are built over the first two-plus months of the season. And a number of preseason hyped teams or household names are in a bit of trouble.
Let’s breakdown 10.
Virginia: The Cavaliers are starting to show signs of life. Virginia won two-straight road ACC games over Syracuse and Clemson. The best win was over Providence by 18 in Brooklyn. A last-second loss at home to Iowa won’t hurt and getting blown out by 20 at Houston doesn’t sting as much now. The road loss at James Madison by three and the 17-point home loss to Clemson stick out the most. Still, Virginia is Virginia and to dismiss them wouldn’t make sense. The season will come down to the final seven games with two against Duke and road games against Virginia Tech, suddenly hot Miami and Louisville. None of their KenPom or NET numbers are in the sub 60 range — now. But be patient. Being a top four ACC team seems like a must deal.
Bid potential:…