The Mountain West is in trouble. If the MWC is to be a multi-bid league, someone will have to take down Texas Christian University. Other than maybe San Diego State, there just isn't anyone else that's at-large worthy in the conference.

The one thing that stands out is the parity. In past year's, the league has been dominated by Utah. While TCU is clearly the best team in the conference, it's not a team that anyone fears.

As a result, the tournament will be as wide open as it has been in years. It should make for a fun ride.

Who's hot

BYU basketball is back. Not only are the Cougars the second seed, but they have as good a chance as anyone to win the tournament and they have a great recruiting class coming in led by Timpanogos forward Morgan Bailey.

Who's not

San Diego State, at the beginning of the season, was thought of as a league favorite. But SDSU is clearly missing something from last season. The chemistry doesn't seem right and they don't defend nearly as well as they did a season ago.

On The bubble

TCU should be in no matter what. Other than the Horned Frogs, nobody is really worthy of an at-large bid to the tournament. The Mountain West Conference could very well be a one bid league this season.

Favorite

TCU has to be considered the favorite. But it wouldn't shock anyone if the Horned Frogs don't win the tournament.

There are plenty of teams that can beat them.

Darkhorse

This is where nobody can count an Elaine Elliott-coached team out. Kalee Whipple's on her last go-around and that may be enough for the Utes to go on a run.

Schedule

Tuesday

First round

Utah vs. Air Force, 3 p.m.

New Mexico vs. Colorado State, 5:30 p.m.

Wyoming vs. UNLV, 8 p.m.

Wednesday

Quarterfinals

Utah/Air Force vs. New Mexico/Colorado State, 5:30 p.m.

San Diego State vs. Wyoming/UNLV, 8 p.m.

Friday

Semifinals

QF 1 winners, 1 p.m.

QF 2 winners, 3:30 p.m.

Saturday

Championship, 2 p.m.

Tony Jones