Top seeds are big favorites to start March Madness. It could be tricky for fans to spot an upstart - AP News

AP News
March 19, 2026
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Top-seeded NCAA tournament teams are heavy favorites, making it difficult for fans to identify potential upsets.

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# March Madness: Top Seeds Favored, Upsets Likely Harder to Spot The top seeds entering March Madness are heavily favored to advance in the NCAA tournament, making it difficult for casual fans to identify potential Cinderella stories. Strong top-seeded teams have historically dominated early rounds, and this year appears no different, with elite programs considered locks to progress. The dominance of favorites could mean fewer of the surprise runs that typically capture casual fan interest during the tournament. Upsets still happen in March Madness, but they may be rarer this year given the strength and depth of the tournament's highest-ranked teams.

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