Playing defense: COVID still concern for teams in NCAA field By TERESA M. WALKERMarch 17, 2021 GMT “I mean, not even close,” the Belmont coach said. “There’s not even a close second.” COVID-19 shut down his program after Belmont routed Auburn on the road on Dec. 20. Between the positive tests and contract tracing, the Bruins worried they might not finish a promising season with two canceled games and nine others postponed. That’s why just making the NCAA Tournament this season already feels like a big win — and not just for Belmont. Though the journey is not over, teams recognize their dreams can still be derailed by the virus.