Behind Villanova & Xavier, it's time for the Big East to get some respect

Happy Monday, 'Nova Nation! All eyes are looking to Wednesday's battle royale between Villanova and Xavier in Cincinnati, and it's led to some discussion about just how formidable the Big East is. Sure, it isn't the Big 12 and their glutton of Top 25-caliber teams but in the Wildcats and the Musketeers, the conference boasts two teams that have a real shot at the Final 4.

That's typically the mark of a solid conference. Wednesday should be a hoot.

And now, the "news."

In this unpredictable season, why not the Big East? | USA Today
No, the Big East is not as good as the Big 12 from top to bottom this season. Not even close. But here we are three weeks from Selection Sunday and the Big East has two legitimate Final Four contenders. It's time to take notice.

Golden tips from one No. 1 coach to another | The Philadelphia Tribune
Villanova University is coasting along as the nation’s top-ranked collegiate basketball team, and Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame coach John Chaney knows exactly what the Wildcats are experiencing. In 1988, Chaney guided Temple University to a number one regular season ranking.

March Can Be Different For This Year's Villanova Wildcats | Today's U
For Villanova, the perception of the Wildcats is that they're a program that often fails too early in the NCAA Tournament.

Villanova Wildcats coach Harry Perretta earns 700th career win | ESPN
Villanova coach Harry Perretta earned his 700th career win Sunday, as well as his 300th Big East victory.

Villanova Student Hopes To Produce Film In Bryn Mawr | Patch
A Villanova junior is looking to raise money to film and produce her short feature herself.

Team Managers’ Games Take On a New Importance | The New York Times
In gyms across the country, managers play other managers in friendly scrimmages that have become organized events complete with rankings.