As the NCAA tournament approaches, basketball fans brace themselves for the thrill of unexpected upsets. This year, there are four prominent teams that, despite their history of success and projected strong seeds, find themselves in a precarious position heading into the postseason. With recent slumps and key player injuries, these powerhouses could easily be knocked out before the first weekend is over.

One of the teams facing a surprising decline is the Kansas Jayhawks. With a disappointing finish in the Big 12 conference, having lost four out of their last five games, the Jayhawks are not in top form. Their back-to-back blowout losses, totaling a staggering 50-point margin, have left fans bewildered. Despite being projected to secure a No. 4 seed, doubts are growing about their ability to make a significant run in the tournament.

The Marquette Golden Eagles also appear to be losing momentum as they approach the postseason. While initially displaying promise, their recent struggles have raised concerns. A 28-point loss to UConn, and consecutive losses to UConn and Creighton, have placed their chances in jeopardy. Compounding their difficulties, the absence of star player Tyler Kolek due to an oblique injury has further weakened their prospects. Kolek's potential return could be a determining factor in their success.

Duke, a perennial powerhouse, is encountering an uncharacteristically shaky season. Swept by rival North Carolina and falling to NC State in the ACC tournament, the Blue Devils are searching for stability. Head coach Jon Scheyer's comments regarding the team's lack of collective competitive fire only heighten the anxiety surrounding their tournament performance. Despite earning a No. 2 seed, their limited number of significant wins and an overall beatable vibe are raising doubts about their potential deep run.

Purdue, while boasting an impressive regular season record and capturing the Big Ten regular season title, has shown signs of vulnerability. Recent double-digit victories against unranked opponents raise questions about their ability to dominate top-tier competition. Losses to Ohio State, as well as road defeats against Nebraska and Northwestern, are concerning indicators of their susceptibility to underdogs. Although highly regarded, Purdue has been susceptible to upsets in recent tournaments, making it a formidable team to watch.

As Selection Sunday approaches, fans eagerly await the unveiling of the tournament bracket, hoping their favorite teams will avoid these vulnerable powerhouses. While these teams have shown tremendous skill throughout the season, their current struggles and injury concerns have made them prime candidates for early exits. As March Madness unfolds, it remains to be seen if these powerhouses can overcome adversity and prove their doubters wrong on the grandest stage of college basketball.