March Madness Countdown: Key Matchups to Watch in the Final Stretch of the NCAAM Regular Season

The Countdown Begins

As the Super Bowl fades into the rearview mirror, the spotlight turns to college basketball. With just over a month until Selection Sunday, the regular season is heating up. Here's a daily guide to the must-watch games that will impact NCAA tournament seeding, conference championships, and bubble teams.

Tuesday, February 11: Tennessee vs. Kentucky (7 PM ET, ESPN)

The Volunteers seek revenge after a previous loss to Kentucky. With both teams vying for a top seed in the SEC, this matchup could have significant postseason implications.

Wednesday, February 12: Chattanooga vs. Samford (7:30 PM ET, ESPN+)

Two SoCon powerhouses clash with conference supremacy on the line. Keep an eye on this potential NCAA tournament sleeper.

Thursday, February 13: Maryland vs. Nebraska (8:30 PM ET, Big Ten Network)

Maryland looks to bounce back after a narrow loss, while Nebraska aims to solidify its tournament resume.

Friday, February 14: UCLA vs. Indiana (8 PM ET, FOX)

Indiana faces a tough challenge against a resurgent UCLA team. Can the Hoosiers overcome their recent struggles?

Saturday, February 15: Auburn vs. Alabama (4 PM ET, ESPN)

In what could be the game of the season, the top two teams in the SEC battle for supremacy. Expect high-octane offense and intense rivalry action.

Sunday, February 16: Utah State vs. New Mexico (4 PM ET, CBS Sports Network)

The Mountain West leaders face off in a crucial contest with conference title and NCAA seeding implications.

Monday, February 17: Arizona vs. Baylor (10 PM ET, ESPN)

Two perennial powers collide in a late-night showdown. Baylor looks to reclaim its preseason form against a surging Arizona squad.

Tuesday, February 18: Purdue vs. Michigan State (7 PM ET, Peacock)

A pivotal Big Ten clash as Purdue aims to maintain its conference lead against a talented Michigan State team.

Wednesday, February 19: Alabama vs. Missouri (9 PM ET, SEC Network)

Missouri seeks another upset, while Alabama looks to solidify its position atop the SEC standings.

Thursday, February 20: USC vs. Maryland (8:30 PM ET, FOX Sports 1)

USC needs a strong finish to secure a tournament bid, starting with a tough road test against Maryland.

Friday, February 21: Michigan State vs. Michigan (8 PM ET, FOX)

The in-state rivalry takes center stage with Big Ten title implications on the line.

Saturday, February 22: Tennessee vs. Texas A&M (12 PM ET, ESPN)

Two SEC contenders clash in a game that could impact both seeding and the conference race.

Sunday, February 23: UConn vs. St. John's (12 PM ET, FOX)

A Big East battle with potential championship implications as UConn looks to continue its dominance.

Monday, February 24: Houston vs. Texas Tech (9 PM ET, ESPN)

Houston seeks to avenge an earlier loss in what promises to be a hard-fought contest.

Tuesday, February 25: Florida vs. Georgia (7 PM ET, SEC Network)

Georgia looks to boost its tournament hopes with a statement win against a top SEC opponent.

Wednesday, February 26: Michigan State vs. Maryland (6:30 PM ET, Big Ten Network)

Another critical Big Ten matchup as both teams jockey for position in the standings.

Thursday, February 27: William & Mary vs. Towson (7 PM ET, FloSports)

Towson looks to maintain its lead in the CAA against a tough William & Mary squad.

Friday, February 28: UCLA vs. Purdue (8 PM ET, FOX)

A marquee non-conference matchup with significant NCAA tournament implications.

Saturday, March 1: Alabama vs. Tennessee (1 PM ET, ABC)

Another SEC heavyweight clash as these teams battle for conference supremacy.

Sunday, March 2: Wisconsin vs. Michigan State (1:30 PM ET, CBS)

Wisconsin looks to continue its strong play against a Michigan State team fighting for a top seed.

Monday, March 3: Kansas vs. Houston (9 PM ET, ESPN)

A rematch of an earlier classic with both teams aiming for a statement win.

Tuesday, March 4: Auburn vs. Texas A&M (TBD, ESPN2)

Auburn's high-powered offense goes up against Texas A&M's stout defense in a clash of styles.

Wednesday, March 5: Florida vs. Alabama (7 PM ET, ESPN2)

Two of the nation's top offenses meet in what promises to be a high-scoring affair.

Thursday, March 6: Michigan State vs. Iowa (8 PM ET, FOX Sports 1)

Michigan State seeks a crucial win against an Iowa team struggling in conference play.

Friday, March 7: Purdue vs. Illinois (8 PM ET, FOX)

The Big Ten regular season concludes with a potential title-deciding game between Purdue and Illinois.

Saturday, March 8: Alabama vs. Auburn (2 PM ET, ESPN)

The Iron Bowl of basketball could decide the SEC champion and NCAA tournament seeding.

Sunday, March 9: Michigan vs. Michigan State (12 PM ET, CBS)

The regular season wraps up with another chapter in the storied Michigan-Michigan State rivalry.