Futures betting markets and pre-tournament analytical models for March Madness traditionally position elite traditional powerhouses and reigning conference champions at the top of the championship odds board. Programs with proven postseason pedigree, elite guard play, and exceptional defensive efficiency—such as perennial contenders from the Big Ten, Big 12, and SEC—routinely command the shortest odds from sportsbooks. However, the inherent chaos, single-elimination pressure, and unpredictability of the tournament mean that pre-tournament favorites frequently face intense challenges from surging mid-major Cinderellas and dangerous lower-seeded teams capable of busting brackets overnight.