Monday November 15
Liberty vs. LSU, 6:00 P.M., ESPNU
This is actually a pivotal game for LSU as Liberty’s one of the best OOC games on the Tigers’ schedule. The Flames are currently a Top-100 KenPom so at the very worst this could be a Quad-2 win (or a Q1 win for the Flames) for LSU come Selection Sunday.
Illinois vs. Marquette, 6:00 P.M., FS1
Remember Shaka Smart, one of the most sought after coaches amongst the Mid-Majors? After killing it at VCU, Smart spent five years at Texas where the Longhorns were good but not great. Now Smart’s at Marquette where he’ll have to retool the program to get where the Golden Eagles fancy themselves to be.
Tuesday November 16
Saint Louis vs. Memphis
Be careful, Memphis...
Virginia vs. Houston
This game’s lost a bit of its luster after the ‘Hoos lost to Navy last week. But still, the Cougars are one of the 10-best teams in the nation and Virginia ought to be fine.
BYU vs. Oregon
If you don’t have to be at work early Wednesday morning, try to stay up late for what should be an early season banger.
Wednesday November 17
Michigan State vs. Butler
It’s November 15 but when I see Michigan State vs. Butler, I just assume it’s a second round game of the NCAA Tournament.
VCU vs. Vanderbilt
Be careful, Vandy...
NC State vs. Oklahoma State
Pour one out for the Cowboys who won’t be eligible for postseason play even though they cooperated with the NCAA. Never cooperate with the NCAA, kids. It’s why Will Wade’s still going strong.
Thursday November 18
Ohio State vs. Xavier
This would be a lot more fun if it were Cincy vs. Xavier but alas.
Marquette vs. Ole Miss
Good Lord our second Marquette game this week!
Friday November 19
Liberty vs. Iona
This is the Mid-Major game of the week. Regardless of whatever happens tonight LSU will need Liberty to win as many games as possible to either take the sting off a loss or enhance a win.
Ohio vs. Kentucky
Keep an eye on this game, LSU fans as the Tigers will play both of these schools later this year. Ohio, like Liberty, is a really good team and could bolster LSU’s non-conference resumé if the Tigers win that game on December 2.
Saturday November 20
Villanova vs. Tennessee, 12:00 P.M., ESPN
North Carolina vs. Purdue, 3:00 P.M., ESPN
Oh yeah, this is the good stuff. A doubleheader featuring top-25 teams. The only thing that would make these games better is if they were on campus, and after the incredible atmosphere we saw with Nova going to UCLA this past Friday night, hopefully more are on the way.