Go ahead and forget about last night's loss at Utah State.  Just block it out of your memory and pretend it never happened. The Pokes are 18-4 and still hold a share of first place in the Mountain West conference.  Wyoming has work left to do in order to secure an NCAA Tournament bid, however, the Cowboys control their own destiny.

Let's break down the bracketology:

Last year, two Mountain West teams were invited to the big dance. New Mexico earned a 7th seed after finishing 27-6 and winning the conference tournament.  San Diego State was rewarded with a 4th seed and eventually advanced to the Sweet Sixteen after compiling a regular season record of 29-4.

Presuming at least two Mountain West teams will be selected by the tournament committee this year, go ahead and figure that San Diego State and Colorado State are in.  With an RPI (Ratings Points Index) ranking in the 20's, both the Rams and Aztecs appear to be a lock unless they implode down the stretch.

Wyoming, on the other hand, is on the bubble.  An easy non conference schedule and only one win vs. a Top 50 RPI opponent (Colorado State) won't help bolster the Cowboys' chances.  They are currently ranked 70th in the latest RPI standings, which doesn't factor last night's loss to Utah State, who came into the evening ranked 188th in RPI.

While the RPI is one of the most important factors that the NCAA Tournament Committee weighs, it's the not the only criteria they look at.  Wyoming's conference record will loom large if they want to secure an at large bid. And while the Mountain West is a reputable mid-major, it's doesn't command the respect of a major conference.  Barring an upset winner in the conference tournament, the Mountain West is likely to receive no more than three invitations.

Which means, with a record of 6-2 in the Mountain West, the Pokes need to win 6 of their 9 remaining games to finish with fewer than 5 conference losses. Anything less than a 12-5 record in the Mountain West and the Cowboys will probably be headed to the NIT.

Next Wednesday's rematch with Colorado State in Laramie will be pivotal.  Win, and Cowboys will have swept the season series versus a quality opponent ranked in the RPI's top 30.  Lose, and Wyoming will be scrambling to contend for the conference lead heading into a tough road game at San Diego State.

Of course, Wyoming's bubble will completely burst if they don't take care of business against the teams they should beat.  The Cowboys let one get away last night at Utah State.  They can't afford to have another letdown when 6-13 Nevada visits the Dome of Doom on Saturday.

Want to help cheer on the Pokes as they continue their run towards March Madness?

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