San Diego State has earned the admiration of ESPN analyst Joe Lunardi, who has continued to include the Aztecs in his Bracketology projections. But at some point, San Diego State needs to return the love. The Aztecs also need to learn how to finish off a game.
San Diego State blew a 13-point halftime lead, as BYU came roaring back to handily defeat the Aztecs, 69-59. This was the second time San Diego State has blown a halftime lead in its last three losses. At least the Aztecs were blown out from the tip at New Mexico on Saturday. Now San Diego State is suddenly reeling with two consecutive conference losses.
And that tournament bid? Don't be so sure. Now the Aztecs need to worry about tournament seeding in the Mountain West conference tourney.
Nobody wants to get that UNLV draw playing in the Thomas & Mack Center. Right now, the Aztecs would be the No. 4 seed with the Rebels No. 5. (Maybe that's why BYU was playing so hard in the second half -- it doesn't want any part of the UNLV, winners of six consecutive games against the Cougars in the Thomas & Mack.)
San Diego State really needs to be impressive down the stretch and in the conference tournament seeing that the team is lacking great wins. The Aztecs went 0-3 against Arizona State, Arizona and St. Mary's.
State is going to need some help.
There is a still a good chance that the Mountain West can get in four teams, but what about New Mexico which won a second consecutive game and is tied for second place with BYU? The Lobos split with the Cougars earlier this season. A strong finish and tournament showing puts New Mexico in the hunt.
Utah remains in good shape for the Mountain West title, but plays a huge game against UNLV tonight. This game almost appears like there will be no loser. The Rebels have already defeated the Utes, so a season split isn't damaging. Though, UNLV shouldn't take anything for granted. This is the NCAA mind you. They are as crooked as the line Charles Barkley walks at a sobriety check point.
Utah could be playing for some prime seeding, locked into a No. 6 seed in the most recent Bracketology. A convincing regular-season title and a strong run in the Mountain West tournament could really improve the Utes seed. Besides, the NCAA owes them after that BCS mess.
