Championship Week is in full swing, and one potential bid thief to keep an eye on is the Colorado State Rams from the Mountain West Conference.

Historically, the Mountain West Conference has struggled in the NCAA Tournament, with an overall record of 31-65 and a history of early exits. Despite San Diego State's impressive run to the title game in 2023, teams from this conference are often overlooked and undervalued by the selection committee, and Colorado State is another Mountain West team that falls into this category this year.

Finishing second in the conference—just one game shy of a regular-season title—many would expect Colorado State to be a lock for at least a spot in the last four in conversation. Yet, many experts don’t even have them as a first four out team. Despite a solid 54th overall NET ranking and a seven-game win streak, CSU has received little love. However, all of that could change with a deep run in the Mountain West Tournament.

The Rams' tournament journey kicks off Thursday when they face the winner of the Nevada vs. Fresno State matchup. With a perfect 4-0 record against these two teams this season, Colorado State has a decent chance to advance to a semifinal showdown with Utah State—a team currently projected to make the NCAA tournament. After splitting the regular season matchups, a win for the Rams would significantly boost their tournament resume. A Conference Championship against a tough New Mexico squad would clinch a spot and make Selection Sunday an exciting day for the Rams.

Led by star guard and Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year, Nique Clifford, Colorado State has all the tools to steal a bid. Don’t sleep on Niko Medved and his team—they could make a serious run.