For those new to the site, this “The Student Section Supports†segment takes a look at one specific matchup that has the potential to either be an upset or an extremely tight game between two evenly matched teams. Generally speaking, this segment will steer clear of the top, marquee matchups due to the fact that there will be plenty of press about those games anyway. Bracket Busters is still a week away (and next weeks SSS will also feature two mids) but I’m warming you up with another mid-major matchup for this week: I make my first endeavor into the MAC this season with a preview of two bubble teams that no one is talking about.
When: Saturday, 3 ET. (Not broadcast nationally.)
OHIO (16-8): The Bobcats need this win to remain in the bubble hunt. A loss here would put them a nearly-insurmountable three games behind Kent State in the loss column and probably dip their RPI into the low 70s.
Could win because…They beat them the first time. Ohio defeated Kent State 71-59 on January 19. A sweep of Kent State could really cause one of those juxtaposition bubble arguments if Ohio loses a bad game down the stretch. Hypothetically: How could you put in, say, a 25-7 Kent State team, but leave out a 23-9 Ohio team that swept Kent State? If Ohio wins, this will certainly be an interesting development to watch.
Could lose because…They have trouble scoring a lot of points in conference. Especially when those games are on the road. Ohio has lost to Holy Cross and Temple out of conference. You can also throw in the 37-point beating by the hands of Kansas back in mid-December too.
KENT STATE (20-5): They’ve got a great record and an RPI (49) that’s manageable (for now). Currently, the MAC is rated 13th-best according to the ever-referenced kenpom.com. A win for the Flashes would put them at 10-2 in the conference and buckled up in the driver’s seat.
Could win because…Kent State is a better defensive team and hasn’t lost a game at home yet this season. Ohio could also have some hangover effect after losing to miserable Toledo on Wednesday. It should also be noted that Toledo defeated Kent State a few weeks back as well. So they’ve got that going for them…which is nice.
Could lose because…When Mike Scott doesn’t produce, they tend to lag. Scott is senior forward who provides 13 points and six boards/game for Kent State. It doesn’t seem like a lot, but Scott is critical to Kent State’s stability. Consider: in KSU’s last two losses—one of them to Ohio—Scott has combined for 15 points and five rebounds.
If either of these teams make the tournament it doesn’t matter. I won’t get to see them play, won’t pick them to win, and I’ll be screwed in the pool.