In the long history of the men's NCAA tournament, a field that has now grown to 68 teams, there are still a surprising number of programs waiting to participate in their first March Madness.

In an alternate universe, the NCAA tournament is decided trial-by-combat style, with each school's mascot serving as its champion. Mascot basketball, as we all know, is the sport at its purest form.

Ohio State and Texas are currently projected to make the NCAA men's tournament, but Indiana and Oklahoma will try to take their spots when facing them.

Boise State (24-10) was passed over in favor of San Diego State, North Carolina, Texas and Xavier, who will all be heading to ...