ESPN.com - ncb - Illini move into ranks of No. 1s

That's it, no more. We've been burned too often this season. Reps no longer mean anything in the Sweet 16. Where you play isn't as important as how you play.

These aren't new guidelines. This list was created to be a reflection of the college basketball landscape each week. But we've been corrupted by teams we trusted. Blinded by power conferences, quick starts and broken promises.

As always, your opinions are welcomed. Click here to voice your approval or disdain for this week's Sweet 16.

(Records as of Sunday, Feb. 11)

No. 1 Seeds

TEAM

North Carolina
Record: 21-2

Duke
Record: 22-2

Stanford
Record: 22-1

Illinois
Record: 19-5

COMMENT
Some teams would have let the No. 1 ranking affect their play. Obviously, the Heels aren't one of those teams.
Up Next: Week to get ready for ... Clemson.

In three games since UNC loss, the Dukies have outscored FSU, Clemson and N.C. State 282-197.
Up Next: Trip to disappearing Virginia.

Not impressive in two Oregon wins. Winning will get 'em a No. 1 seed out West, but we noticed the dropoff.
Up Next: Dangerous trip Saturday into Bears' new den.

Tough wins and losses in November are paying off. You told us so ... Illini are indeed Midwest's best right now.
Up Next: Troublesome Badgers and improving Indiana.

No. 2 Seeds

TEAM

Michigan State
Record: 19-3

Iowa State
Record: 21-3

Kansas
Record: 19-3

Boston College
Record: 17-2

COMMENT
Champaign loss lingered into Minneapolis. Take care of Big Ten business and rematch with Illini will happen.
Up Next: Week to get ready for reeling Hawkeyes.

Newest player in Midwest power struggle is a familiar name. Horton & Co. simply shoot you out of the gym.
Up Next: Return engagement with Jayhawks – at home.

Just when the 'Hawks thought it was safe, Gooden goes down with a wrist injury days before rematch with Cyclones.
Up Next: A not-so-pleasant night at the Hilton?

We couldn't believe it either. A No. 2 seed for BC? But somehow the number adds up as of Feb. 11.
Up Next: In Hartford with chance to sweep UConn.

No. 3 Seeds

TEAM

Florida
Record: 16-5

Kentucky
Record: 15-7

UCLA
Record: 16-5

Mississippi
Record: 19-4

COMMENT
Gators begin a run of SEC teams. But conference doesn't boast any team better than those above, or worse then those below.
Up Next: Road trip to LSU and Knoxville.

Yes, we know they just beat the Gators. But Wildcats had already proven they can beat better teams in Rupp.
Up Next: Trips to Knoxville and Vandy.

Somebody had to stop the SEC streak. But why not Cal or 'Zona? Because Bruins seem to be peaking.
Up Next: Second-place showdown vs. 'Cats.

Yes, we're back to the SEC. But the Rebels lead the West, so it seems different than the two above. Right?
Up Next: Wins 20 and 21 most likely.

No. 4 Seeds

TEAM

Arizona
Record: 15-6

Notre Dame
Record: 16-5

Fresno State
Record: 20-3

Space
Available

COMMENT
Seems even some of the Wildcat faithful have lost patience with this team. Fickle? No, just fed up.
Up Next: Trip to sunny SoCal could lift spirits.

Quietly moved to top of Big East West with 7 straight wins – rising above both Hoyas and Orangemen.
Up Next: At Rutgers and home to Pirates.

Sunday's win clearly shows it's easier to focus in Fresno than Honolulu. This is Tark's 29th season of 20-plus wins.
Up Next: Tricky trip to Texas for TCU and UTEP.

WANTED: Team with quality road win(s) to fill out Sweet 16. Qualified applicants enquire via e-mail.
Up Next: Cavs? 'Cuse? Cal? Vols? Terps? ...

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Feb. 4: Sweet 16

AthletesDirect: Mike Krzyzewski's official Web site