THE NET: How high is too high?

The new NET ranking is starting to solidify as the end of the non-conference season approaches.  One of the misconceptions of the NET is that it is a “standings”  statistic, meaning the top ranked teams automatically get the best seeds.  The NCAA has mentioned that is is still going to use the quad system this year in making selections.  They will also use other metrics in helping place teams in the bracket.

A team’s NET ranking is simply a method of sorting teams for evaluation.  Knowing this, we at Delphi Bracketology have researched previous sorting tools like the RPI.  What we have found is that teams with RPI of 50 or more have a difficult time making the tournament.  In 2016, eight teams with rankings over 50 made the tournament as at large bids.  In 2017, only four team made it with a 50 plus RPI.  We look for that to continue with the new NET ranking.

Teams ranked above 50 will be closely scrutinized for inclusion.  Our new seed list contains five teams over the NET ranking of 50.

Minnesota— an 8 seed with 55 NET
Texas– a 9 seed with 58 NET
Notre Dame– an 11 seed with a 50 NET
Florida—- a 12 seed with a 52 NET
Syracuse–  a 12 seed with a 66 NET

These teams have some postivies on their resume that at this point would account for thier spot in the bracket.  Some teams have a few nice resume pieces but were left out of our recent bracket.

Creighton– NET 56
Arizona-  NET 57
Arkansas– NET 64
Northwestern– NET 68

While quality wins are very important for the resume, improving a team’s NET is also important.  Last year, OKlahoma St had more quality wins than several teams in the bracket, but their RPI ranking was in the high 80’s.  We put Oklahoma St in our bracket based on resume of quality wins.  They were left out by the committee.  So this year we are really researching those teams with 50 plus NET closely.

Any questions about our methods or selections please tweet at us @delphibrackets