Probably But the topic has sparked some interesting side discussions about the broader sport. I think SOS matters. I think the rule that you must have at least a .500 record to get in prevents the truly mediocre from getting in when the reality is, the ONLY way a 9-7, 8-8 type team will get in is if they have an overwhelmingly tough schedule, have won some of those games (NU has beaten #6, #7, #13 and lost to #3 in OT). I think Laxpower rankings are a pretty source for a computer model that takes all of this into consideration. Those rankings have NU ranked 10th in the nation. While not perfect, that's a pretty good indication of why they should be considered for the tournament, if they finish .500 or better.
As to the 'weaker' schools ... the equivalent of mid-majors in basketball, that's why the conference winners get in. They have their chance as well. I really don't think lax is all that much different than any other NCAA sport in regards to dominant teams/conferences. It is just earlier in its growth curve. NU themselves were an unbelievable underdog once upon a time. USC looks to be one that might push the "establishment" next. The game is growing and I think we might all be surprised 10 years from now with the geographical diversity of strong programs and how that will continue to loosen the stranglehold on the top by a few programs.
I think, at this time .500 is too shallow a pool, .666 or 2/3 of your games is better.
Maybe. With so few truly strong conferences though, .500 seems better to me. The Virginia example cited earlier explains why. A team from the ACC, with a .500 record made it to the final 4. Right now, there are too few strong conferences, and w only 17 games, .666 would punish some of the best teams for their difficult schedules while rewarding weaker teams in weaker conferences. I want to see the best teams in the tournament.
Just as long as we don't have to see Northworstern.
But the topic has sparked some interesting side discussions about the broader sport. I think SOS matters. I think the rule that you must have at least a .500 record to get in prevents the truly mediocre from getting in when the reality is, the ONLY way a 9-7, 8-8 type team will get in is if they have an overwhelmingly tough schedule, have won some of those games (NU has beaten #6, #7, #13 and lost to #3 in OT). I think Laxpower rankings are a pretty source for a computer model that takes all of this into consideration. Those rankings have NU ranked 10th in the nation. While not perfect, that's a pretty good indication of why they should be considered for the tournament, if they finish .500 or better.