Tuesday, September 14, 2004
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Too early to bubble watch?Yes. But it's not to early to take a look at the 2004-2005 schedules of potential bubble teams St. Louis, Xavier, Creighton, and Colorado.
Brad Soderberg has done a wonderful job coaching the Billikens. Unfortunately, despite the spin he sold the Post-Dispatch, this year's schedule is less demanding than last year's edition. In 2003-2004, St. Louis played Arizona and Georgia Tech. In 2004-2005, the team's premier non-conference opponent is Gonzaga.
Xavier's first-year coach Sean Miller will lead the Musketeers against non-conference foes Mississippi State, Cincinnati and Creighton. Like St. Louis, Xavier will play 15 games against 2003-2004 postseason teams.
Creighton's schedule leaves the Blue Jays little room for error. Apart from the road game at Xavier and participation in the Guardians Classic and "Bracket Buster" events, there is little on the schedule to catch the eye of the selection committee.
Colorado is destined for a quality game against Michigan (or an ugly early-season loss to the College of Charleston). The Buffs also play at California, at Utah and at Richmond. Credit Ricardo Patton for not shying away from tough road games.
