SETBACK: March Madness Implications: Can Alabama Overcome Tennessee Loss for a 1-Seed?

Alabama’s hopes for a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament took a hit with their recent loss to Tennessee, raising questions about their standing in the selection committee’s eyes. While the defeat is a setback, it doesn’t necessarily eliminate the Crimson Tide from top-seed contention. Let’s break down what this loss means, where Alabama currently stands, and what they need to do to secure a No. 1 seed on Selection Sunday.

How the Tennessee Loss Impacts Alabama’s Resume

Alabama entered the matchup as one of the top contenders for a No. 1 seed, boasting an impressive résumé filled with quality wins. However, the loss to Tennessee—especially if it wasn’t a close game—adds a blemish to their record. The selection committee values strength of schedule, quality wins, and recent performance, so this loss could be damaging if Alabama struggles in its remaining games.

However, Tennessee is a strong opponent, and a road loss to a top-tier team isn’t devastating. If Alabama had lost to an unranked team or suffered multiple bad losses, the situation would be much worse.

Where Alabama Stands in the Current Bracketology

Even after the Tennessee loss, Alabama remains in contention for a No. 1 seed. According to most bracketologists, they are still among the top teams, but their margin for error has shrunk. Competing teams like Purdue, Houston, and UConn are also vying for top seeds, and Alabama will need to finish the season strong to keep pace.

The Tide’s biggest advantage is their strength of schedule and Quad 1 wins, key metrics the committee considers. If Alabama can win the SEC Tournament and pick up more marquee victories, they can still lock in a No. 1 seed.

What Alabama Needs to Do to Secure a No. 1 Seed

To remain in the conversation for a top seed, Alabama must:

1. Finish the Regular Season Strong – Winning the rest of their regular-season games, especially against ranked opponents, is crucial.
2. Make a Deep SEC Tournament Run – A strong showing, ideally a championship win, in the SEC Tournament would boost their résumé.
3. Hope for Losses from Other Contenders – If Purdue, Houston, or UConn stumble down the stretch, Alabama’s chances improve.

Final Verdict: Is a No. 1 Seed Still in Play?

Yes, Alabama can still earn a No. 1 seed, but they must take care of business the rest of the way. The loss to Tennessee hurt, but it’s not a deal-breaker. If they dominate the rest of the season and perform well in the SEC Tournament, they’ll remain in the conversation. However, any more missteps could push them down to a No. 2 seed.

March Madness is unpredictable, and the next few weeks will be crucial for Alabama’s seeding hopes. Stay tuned.