ESPN.com - NCB - Tough choice, but it's Illini on top

When two of ESPN.com's four No. 1 seeds lose, it makes for tough decisions -- especially when the team who doesn't lose isn't the obvious choice to be on top.

Such was the case after Sunday's stunning outcome in Clemson's Littlejohn Arena and Duke's setback in Charlottesville, Va. on Valentine's Day.

As always, your opinions are welcomed. Click here to voice your approval or disdain for this week's Sweet 16.

(Records as of Sunday, Feb. 18)

No. 1 Seeds

TEAM

Illinois
Record: 21-5

Stanford
Record: 23-1

North Carolina
Record: 21-3

Duke
Record: 23-3

COMMENT
It would have been easy to put Cardinal here. But we refuse to do anything easy, just like Illini.
Up Next: Trip to bubbling Buckeyes; Home to Hawkeyes

They have the best record in the land, yes. But are they the best team in the land right now? No, we don't think so.
Up Next: Washington's non-tourney teams.

A week off is never good at this time of the season. And the week ahead isn't any easier: ask Maryland or Duke
Up Next: Home to FSU; Trip to Charlottesville.

Got help they needed from Clemson after beating up New York city boys. March 4 takes on whole new meaning.
Up Next: Back to ACC work: Tech & Wake.

No. 2 Seeds

TEAM

Iowa State
Record: 22-3

Michigan State
Record: 20-3

Kentucky
Record: 17-7

Florida
Record: 18-5

COMMENT
Knocking (HARD) on No. 1 seed doorstep. Will be among the toughest outs come tourney time.
Up Next: Trips to K-State and Texas.

Are the defending champions really third-best among Midwest contenders? Hard to believe.
Up Next: Host to Hoosiers with revenge in air.

The SEC's hottest team has now won seven in a row. Never should have doubted Tubby.
Up Next: Can clinch share of East title with 2 wins.

Despite a bruised team ego, broken bones and aching backs, Gators are piecing together a nice little run.
Up Next: Home to Rebels and Tide.

No. 3 Seeds

TEAM

Mississippi
Record: 21-4

UCLA
Record: 17-6

Kansas
Record: 19-5

Boston College
Record: 19-3

COMMENT
Yes, they say the SEC West is weaker. But the Rebels are still stronger then anyone chasing East's top two.
Up Next: Chance to flex in Florida.

Haven't we seen this before from Bruins? Beat Stanford, then go on nice little run into NCAAs.
Up Next: Two more reasons to stop saying 'P' word.

We knew Saturday would be tough. Williams knew Baylor would be also. We both were right.
Up Next: No more Big Mondays ... thank goodness.

Caught a UConn team that really needed a win. Rebounded nicely against Friars to keep this spot.
Up Next: Holy Week: Irish first, then Friars.

No. 4 Seeds

TEAM

Virginia
Record: 18-6

Alabama
Record: 20-5

Arizona
Record: 18-7

Space
Still Available

COMMENT
Sorry Cavs fans, but we gotta put them back on list after beating Duke. And we all know what that means ...
Up Next: Week to get ready for Tar Heels' visit.

Fortunately, they didn't have to travel to play Buckeyes. Still a quality win come seeding time.
Up Next: Oops, two road games in SEC.

Display against USC is why we picked 'em No. 1 before the season started. UCLA is why they're not No. 1.
Up Next: Bragging rights in state of Arizona.

WANTED: Team with quality road win(s) to fill out Sweet 16. Qualified applicants enquire via e-mail.
Up Next: 'Cuse? Hoyas? Vols? Terps? Bulldogs? Irish? ...

Send this story to a friend | Most sent stories

ALSO SEE

Feb. 11: Sweet 16