Bracketology: CBS Sports experts predict NCAA Tournament bracket before committee reveals early top 16 seeds

February 20, 2026 - 20:05

With Selection Sunday just weeks away, the race for the top seeds in the NCAA Tournament is heating up. CBS Sports bracketology experts have released their predictions for the early top 16 seeds, offering a snapshot of the current national landscape before the selection committee unveils its own preliminary rankings this Saturday.

The projections highlight the teams currently in position to earn the coveted top-four seed lines in each region. Unsurprisingly, dominant squads from major conferences are featured prominently, but the list also sheds light on which teams are on the bubble for these protected seeds. The experts' bracket considers overall record, strength of schedule, quality wins, and recent performance, mirroring the criteria used by the official committee.

This early look generates significant discussion among fans and analysts, setting the stage for the committee's official reveal. The upcoming announcement will provide the first concrete insight into how the committee views the season's body of work thus far, allowing teams to gauge their standing. As conference tournaments approach, every game becomes critical for those teams hoping to secure or improve their seeding, with the goal of earning the most favorable path possible through March Madness. The experts' forecast serves as a crucial barometer in the ever-evolving picture of college basketball's postseason.