On a somewhat related note - a question for the selection gurus out there (SS maybe?) - if you're playing two games, say @ MSU and vs Iowa, would a win/lose scenario cancel each other out? Or is it better to win and lose where you are supposed to?
It seems to me you get more attention for winning the 'big' games (upsets), but there's something to be said for consistency.
I don't know how much it matters to the selection committee, but it seems that everyone on ESPN every year feels that beating the better team is more valuable. They justify it by saying that you will be playing against good competiton in the tournamet, so a better record against better teams proves you belong more than a good record against bad teams since you won't be playing bad teams in the tournament anyway. Like I said, not sure if the selection committee views it the same way though.
Va Tech 47, VA 45.
This is a good win for our Gophers, Right SS?
I put more stock in quality wins than bad losses.
Generally speaking, my hope is that about half of the Gophers' nonconference opponents (5, maybe 6) end up being top-50/100 type teams. Currently there are 4 of those -- Dayton (22), SDSU (64), Virginia Tech (68) and Bucknell (69). We're 3-1 vs. those 4.
It looks doubtful any others (#129 Indiana State, #132 NDSU, #139 Fairfield) will join them. I'd guess Fairfield has the best chance.