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Michigan, Duke, Arizona, and Nebraska Headline Top Seeds

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, January 26th 2026 at 13:59 GMT by CBSSports.com
      Locales: Arizona, Michigan, Nebraska, North Carolina, Indiana, Kentucky, Kansas, Connecticut, UNITED STATES

The Top Tier: Seeds 1-4 and Regional Dominance

Palm's latest Bracketology places four teams as potential No. 1 seeds: Michigan, Duke, Arizona, and Nebraska. Michigan, boasting a formidable 26-2 record, secures the top spot in the East Region. Their consistent performance and strong wins throughout the season have cemented their place amongst the elite. Duke, with a 24-4 record, is pegged as a No. 1 seed in the South Region. The Blue Devils, historically a powerhouse in the tournament, are expected to make a deep run, as always. Arizona, holding a 25-3 record, secures the coveted No. 1 seed in the West Region. The Wildcats' blend of talent and experience positions them as serious championship contenders. Nebraska, surprisingly, is projected as a No. 2 seed in the East Region, boasting a strong 23-5 record. While not a traditional basketball giant, Nebraska's impressive season earns them a prominent position in Palm's bracket.

The Crucial Battle for At-Large Bids

Beyond the top seeds, the landscape becomes significantly more complex. Palm emphasizes the intense competition for the remaining at-large bids - those coveted spots awarded to teams not automatically qualifying through their conference tournament wins. This is where the drama truly lies. Numerous teams are positioned on the "bubble," meaning their NCAA tournament fate hangs precariously in the balance. These teams are desperately vying for quality wins and avoiding costly losses in the final weeks of the regular season and the conference tournaments.

Factors influencing these at-large selections are multifaceted. Strength of schedule plays a crucial role; teams facing tougher opponents are rewarded for success. Quad 1 wins, victories against teams with strong resumes, are particularly valuable. Conference tournament performance also carries significant weight; a surprising run can propel a bubble team into the field, while an early exit can crush their hopes. The NET rankings (NCAA Evaluation Tool) and KenPom ratings also provide valuable data points for the selection committee.

Beyond the Seeds: Potential Upset Candidates & Storylines

While the top seeds represent the established powerhouses, the NCAA tournament is notorious for its upsets. Lower-seeded teams, fueled by passion and a desire to prove themselves, often topple heavily favored opponents. Identifying potential upset candidates is a perennial pastime for college basketball fans. Teams with strong defensive identities, experienced guards, or a unique offensive system can pose a serious threat to even the most talented teams.

Furthermore, specific storylines often emerge during the tournament. Could a Cinderella team from a smaller conference make a surprising run? Will a struggling star player find their form at the most crucial time? Will injuries impact the performance of key teams?

Staying Updated: Following Palm's Bracketology and Tournament Predictions

Jerry Palm's Bracketology is just one prediction among many, and the landscape is constantly evolving. His full bracket, accessible at [ https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/bracketology-ncaa-tournament-bracket-field-of-68-predictions-michigan-nebraska-duke-arizona/ ], provides a detailed look at his projections, revealing potential matchups and regional landscapes. It's essential to stay informed about team performances, conference tournaments, and updated rankings to gain a comprehensive understanding of the tournament's potential. The next few weeks promise intense competition and unpredictable outcomes as teams fight for their place in March Madness history.