Columbia, Mo. – March Madness is upon us and College League of Legends Playoffs are well underway. The Cougar eSports varsity team defeated Akron University 3-0, earning them a spot among the final four North Conference contenders. The four remaining teams competing for the top spot in the conference are Miami Ohio, Maryville, Case Western Reserve, and Columbia College. The conference winner will earn an automatic berth to the College Championship in Los Angeles on May 23-26.

The Cougars junior varsity team narrowly defeated University of Illinois 2-1 earning them a spot in the Ro8 CSL JV1 Playoff bracket. Initially, the Cougars struggled to find any momentum in game one, after a compelling performance by Illinois' bot lane. Illinois AD player "Kuderic" found early kills against the Cougars and went on to finish the game with a perfect KDA of 11 (8/0/3). Illinois closed out game one 18-9 in 28:16 minutes of play.

With their backs against the wall, the Cougars rallied in game two to even the series 1-1. Cougar's top laner John "Haebaragi" Choi had a stunning performance on the champion Irelia. At the 14-minute mark, his effort helped Ace Illinois at a crucial Dragon fight and earned himself the pentakill! Game two ended 24-14 after 39:10 minutes of play.

The Cougars put up a clean performance for the final game of the series, holding a 6-0 kill lead until the 20-minute mark. The Cougars continued to play around their lead and wave pressure to secure the win 18-7. Robert "Saikhan" Hanson posted a 17 KDA (2/1/15)—the highest on the team, followed closely by Chris "CC Charmer" Harmer with a 16 KDA (8/1/8).

Didn't see the game live? Watch Saturday's broadcast here Twitch.tv/cc_esports.

For the insider scoop on Cougar eSports, follow the teams on twitter @Cougar_eSports.