My Big 10 Power Rankings

[bac2therac]

With RU's win over Oregon and the rest of the Big 10 exciting action, do I dare say I am starting to get a little blood flowing in my blue and frigid arteries. To be honest I have not watched as many Big 10 games as in previous years but here is a go. Rankings based on a combo of overall and current Big 10 play.

1. Michigan
2. Purdue
3. Nebraska
4. Michigan State
5. Illinois
6. Ohio State
7. USC
8. Wisconsin
9. Minnesota
10. Iowa
11. UCLA
12. Indiana
13. Washington
14. Oregon
15. Penn State
16. Rutgers
17. Northwestern
18. Maryland


TOP TIER

The Big 10 is extremely top heavy. In fact its the most top heavy in quite some time. There are 2 elite teams in Michigan and Purdue. Nebraska and Michigan State are close maybe a notch below. No shame in Michigan slip in performance at Penn State and they probably needed a close game. Purdue's only slip up was to #3 Iowa State. Nebraska looks tough as nails and the schedule could be setting up a 20-0 Nebby vs 19-0 Michigan matchup in late January. Izzo has Sparty playing their best hoops in years and have a favorable upcoming stretch where they can stack wins.
Illinois is just a notch below this group. Typical explosive bombs away offense. As usual with Underwood programs it comes down to consistency but they figure to be right there fighting for a top 4 seed in the NCAA tourney.

LARGE MUDDLED MIDDLE

Its fair to put about 7 schools in this grouping. We are only 4 games into the conference slate so things will change rapidly here. Some schools may have a bigger upside than others while others will stack losses eventually and slip out of NCAA contention. Ohio State is your typical fringe NCAA team. Not overwhelming but they will compete in every game. Their road swing to the Pacific Northwest schools will give us some more answers. USC was given the business by both Michigan and Michigan State and needs to regain their momentum from earlier in the year when they knocked off Seton Hall. Last nights loss at Minnesota and a rough 3 game stretch ahead cools their jets for now.Wisconsin got a much needed win over UCLA that should help their confidence and will likely be hanging around the bubble all year long. Where to put Minnesota is the question. Based on Big 10 play they belong in the middle for sure whether they can sustain that and deserve to be higher is another story. Univerally picked in the bottom 3 in the league the Medved move really paying off. A couple winnable home games next up before things get tougher could be the key to their season. MacCollum has done a good job with the Iowa turnaround from last year but can he sustain it now the games are getting tougher.UCLA in the midst of 4 of 5 road games before getting 5 of 6 home games. Hard to get a gauge on where the Bruins stand currently as their best win all year is at Washington. Indiana has a gauntlet stretch coming up and the results have been just so so to date so winning at Maryland tonight is imperative or else they are likely headed into the bottom 6

BOTTOM 6

Any of these schools can beat each other on any given night. Some may even put in a scare to the top tier at home but don't see how any of them move out of this group. Washington may have the best shot but a rugged 6 game slate coming up figures to make or break their season. In that stretch they get the top 4 schools in the league, 2 at home. Oregon may have the most talent in this grouping and when healthy would be a NCAA contender but too many things have gone wrong so far and losing at Rutgers not a good sign. Upcoming stretch against 3 of the top 4 schools should seal their fate if they cannot win a couple of them. Penn State may be 0-4 in league but any school that comes within 2 points of Michigan deserves props....and they also just lost to Michigan State by 4. Rutgers by far had the worst out of conference performance but last 2 at the RAC with a win over Oregon indicating some life. Big home game vs Nort The losses could pile up real quickly for Northwestern with 4 of 6 on the road and 2 monsters at home. Maryland is barely registering a pulse thus far for Buzz failing to beat any school with a winning record.

 

[goru7]

With RU's win over Oregon and the rest of the Big 10 exciting action, do I dare say I am starting to get a little blood flowing in my blue and frigid arteries. To be honest I have not watched as many Big 10 games as in previous years but here is a go. Rankings based on a combo of overall and current Big 10 play.

1. Michigan
2. Purdue
3. Nebraska
4. Michigan State
5. Illinois
6. Ohio State
7. USC
8. Wisconsin
9. Minnesota
10. Iowa
11. UCLA
12. Indiana
13. Washington
14. Oregon
15. Penn State
16. Rutgers
17. Northwestern
18. Maryland


TOP TIER

The Big 10 is extremely top heavy. In fact its the most top heavy in quite some time. There are 2 elite teams in Michigan and Purdue. Nebraska and Michigan State are close maybe a notch below. No shame in Michigan slip in performance at Penn State and they probably needed a close game. Purdue's only slip up was to #3 Iowa State. Nebraska looks tough as nails and the schedule could be setting up a 20-0 Nebby vs 19-0 Michigan matchup in late January. Izzo has Sparty playing their best hoops in years and have a favorable upcoming stretch where they can stack wins.
Illinois is just a notch below this group. Typical explosive bombs away offense. As usual with Underwood programs it comes down to consistency but they figure to be right there fighting for a top 4 seed in the NCAA tourney.

LARGE MUDDLED MIDDLE

Its fair to put about 7 schools in this grouping. We are only 4 games into the conference slate so things will change rapidly here. Some schools may have a bigger upside than others while others will stack losses eventually and slip out of NCAA contention. Ohio State is your typical fringe NCAA team. Not overwhelming but they will compete in every game. Their road swing to the Pacific Northwest schools will give us some more answers. USC was given the business by both Michigan and Michigan State and needs to regain their momentum from earlier in the year when they knocked off Seton Hall. Last nights loss at Minnesota and a rough 3 game stretch ahead cools their jets for now.Wisconsin got a much needed win over UCLA that should help their confidence and will likely be hanging around the bubble all year long. Where to put Minnesota is the question. Based on Big 10 play they belong in the middle for sure whether they can sustain that and deserve to be higher is another story. Univerally picked in the bottom 3 in the league the Medved move really paying off. A couple winnable home games next up before things get tougher could be the key to their season. MacCollum has done a good job with the Iowa turnaround from last year but can he sustain it now the games are getting tougher.UCLA in the midst of 4 of 5 road games before getting 5 of 6 home games. Hard to get a gauge on where the Bruins stand currently as their best win all year is at Washington. Indiana has a gauntlet stretch coming up and the results have been just so so to date so winning at Maryland tonight is imperative or else they are likely headed into the bottom 6

BOTTOM 6

Any of these schools can beat each other on any given night. Some may even put in a scare to the top tier at home but don't see how any of them move out of this group. Washington may have the best shot but a rugged 6 game slate coming up figures to make or break their season. In that stretch they get the top 4 schools in the league, 2 at home. Oregon may have the most talent in this grouping and when healthy would be a NCAA contender but too many things have gone wrong so far and losing at Rutgers not a good sign. Upcoming stretch against 3 of the top 4 schools should seal their fate if they cannot win a couple of them. Penn State may be 0-4 in league but any school that comes within 2 points of Michigan deserves props....and they also just lost to Michigan State by 4. Rutgers by far had the worst out of conference performance but last 2 at the RAC with a win over Oregon indicating some life. Big home game vs Nort The losses could pile up real quickly for Northwestern with 4 of 6 on the road and 2 monsters at home. Maryland is barely registering a pulse thus far for Buzz failing to beat any school with a winning record.

Thanks BAC. Love this stuff and analysis which is what made the board great in past years.

Excellent summary of the league and the tiers. I am mostly or totally in agreement. I do believe Nebraska is there with Michigan and Purdue because they are winning on the road and winning close games. They have learned how to win and Hoiberg is clearly the favorite for Coach of the Year.
The rest are a bunch of good but not great teams that each have at least 1 All Big 10 player and some have 2 . Like Ohio State who has Thornton , Oregon who has Biddle , Illinois has 2 , Iowa has Strich , Wisconsin has Blackwell , UCLA has Dent , USC has the local kid transfer from Auburn, Washington has the freshman phenom , Northwestern has Martinelli , Indiana has Singleton and Devries . Michigan State has a team of good not great players , as does Minnesota, and Penn State and Maryland but no super players

What I find interesting is what Pike has done the last 4 games but definitely the last 2 conference games, with the move bringing Francis off the bench. Before he was arguably doing the worst coaching job and not getting his rotations right this far into the year had been a terrible fail on his part and the team played worse as a result. Suddenly there is more juice , and a hope , which had vanished , of competing , especially at home against the rest of the conference except the top tier . Whether it is Francis in the microwave role off the bench that seems to limit our scoring draughts or just getting the team to play better. All of a sudden turnovers are minimal where they were ridiculously bad early ,. We still have a huge rebounding problem and he has failed to get across the whole team especially the guards must rebound. They cannot watch their defender launch a shot or a 3, and turn around and watch. They have to go attack the glass. Oregon shot 57% in the first half but 36% in the second half but we gave up like 10 rebounds allowing second chance points that almost bit us on the *** . He has to solve that immediately .

He has to get offensive production out of Dylan and Buchanan and Powers and Zrno and JMike . He has to try and inside out game with Manny because right now we have none which makes it easier for the defense . We cannot continue to play 4 on 5 on offense. Jay Young teach Manny or Dorsch a drop step.

Anyway great post by you and hope has resurfaced after the last 2 conference games. Can it translate and be brought on the road? Powers and Zrno hitting threes and Dylan being featured would really help . Let’s see where this goes with this team that has less talent than our conference foes .

 

[bac2therac]

Thanks BAC. Love this stuff and analysis which is what made the board great in past years.

Excellent summary of the league and the tiers. I am mostly or totally in agreement. I do believe Nebraska is there with Michigan and Purdue because they are winning on the road and winning close games. They have learned how to win and Hoiberg is clearly the favorite for Coach of the Year.
The rest are a bunch of good but not great teams that each have at least 1 All Big 10 player and some have 2 . Like Ohio State who has Thornton , Oregon who has Biddle , Illinois has 2 , Iowa has Strich , Wisconsin has Blackwell , UCLA has Dent , USC has the local kid transfer from Auburn, Washington has the freshman phenom , Northwestern has Martinelli , Indiana has Singleton and Devries . Michigan State has a team of good not great players , as does Minnesota, and Penn State and Maryland but no super players

What I find interesting is what Pike has done the last 4 games but definitely the last 2 conference games, with the move bringing Francis off the bench. Before he was arguably doing the worst coaching job and not getting his rotations right this far into the year had been a terrible fail on his part and the team played worse as a result. Suddenly there is more juice , and a hope , which had vanished , of competing , especially at home against the rest of the conference except the top tier . Whether it is Francis in the microwave role off the bench that seems to limit our scoring draughts or just getting the team to play better. All of a sudden turnovers are minimal where they were ridiculously bad early ,. We still have a huge rebounding problem and he has failed to get across the whole team especially the guards must rebound. They cannot watch their defender launch a shot or a 3, and turn around and watch. They have to go attack the glass. Oregon shot 57% in the first half but 36% in the second half but we gave up like 10 rebounds allowing second chance points that almost bit us on the *** . He has to solve that immediately .

He has to get offensive production out of Dylan and Buchanan and Powers and Zrno and JMike . He has to try and inside out game with Manny because right now we have none which makes it easier for the defense . We cannot continue to play 4 on 5 on offense. Jay Young teach Manny or Dorsch a drop step.

Anyway great post by you and hope has resurfaced after the last 2 conference games. Can it translate and be brought on the road? Powers and Zrno hitting threes and Dylan being featured would really help . Let’s see where this goes with this team that has less talent than our conference foes .

thanks its good to talk some meaningful hoops again. Its insane what Hoiberg did in one year. I see alot of newcomers but his son still plays a big role on the team. Not sure how many ncaa bids the Big 10 gets. Probably 8 when all is said and done as some teams in the middle emerge but it could be as little as 7. The middle really figures to beat each other up and they are vulnerable to taking on losses from the bottom 6. Maryland lost their 2nd straight at home in a loss to Indiana last night and they are off to a really bad start.

As for RU there was really nothing in the prior 13 games that indicated they were ready to step up and play like the last 2. The changing lineup might be an element of surprise as opposing coaches probably are not ready for different players getting more time. Secret is out on Francis and Mark and I think there will be a concerted effort to neutralize Francis and make the rest of the team beat you

 

[goru7]

thanks its good to talk some meaningful hoops again. Its insane what Hoiberg did in one year. I see alot of newcomers but his son still plays a big role on the team. Not sure how many ncaa bids the Big 10 gets. Probably 8 when all is said and done as some teams in the middle emerge but it could be as little as 7. The middle really figures to beat each other up and they are vulnerable to taking on losses from the bottom 6. Maryland lost their 2nd straight at home in a loss to Indiana last night and they are off to a really bad start.

As for RU there was really nothing in the prior 13 games that indicated they were ready to step up and play like the last 2. The changing lineup might be an element of surprise as opposing coaches probably are not ready for different players getting more time. Secret is out on Francis and Mark and I think there will be a concerted effort to neutralize Francis and make the rest of the team beat you

Yes . Good to talk hoops.
Yes, Nebraska is for real and BIG 10 very top heavy and the middle to almost the bottom is dangerous at home against the rest of the conference .

Really believe Pike’s bringing Francis off the bench has been a big reason for the uptick the last few games. Crazy stat as we outscored Oregon in bench points 58-10 as Buchanan and Mark stepped up. Pike has finally eliminated his participation trophy playing time issue and sat Fall and Badalau last game. Think the lineup is set now with a 9 man rotation with Nwuili being the 10 th. Need either and preferably both Powers and Zrno to give you some threes and good ones off of penetration and dishing from Francis , Mark and Davis. Francis is not going to get the 30 point games too often but he has shown that he can drive and draw a foul which is almost automatic free throws , and he is on a heater shooting . Oregon had their best defender on him , Simpkins , and he made him look silly and fouled him out. So I am sure he will get the other team’s best defender but maybe Francis can continue to get them in foul trouble. We have to gang rebound as second chance points and opportunities are killing us

 

[LeapinLou]

We still have a huge rebounding problem and he has failed to get across the whole team especially the guards must rebound. They cannot watch their defender launch a shot or a 3, and turn around and watch. They have to go attack the glass.

The analyst was saying the same thing during the Oregon game. But from my observation, it's less about attacking the glass and more about boxing out. Once the ball goes up you have to get your man on your back with you facing the basket. Then whether the rebound is short or long, you have the advantage.

 

[LeapinLou]

1. Michigan
2. Purdue
3. Nebraska
4. Michigan State
5. Illinois
6. Ohio State
7. USC
8. Wisconsin
9. Minnesota
10. Iowa
11. UCLA
12. Indiana
13. Washington
14. Oregon
15. Penn State
16. Rutgers
17. Northwestern
18. Maryland

I'm still feeling some bias for the blue bloods and am not yet ready to put Nebraska ahead of MSU and Illinois. But no question you have the top 5 (in whatever order) correct.

Minnesota and Penn State are fascinating right now. They are the two teams that look like they can beat or lose to anyone else in the conference.

RU has a scheduling advantage, having home games against both Northwestern and Maryland. For a chance to avoid the cellar, they need to win both of those games to not only give themselves wins, but also to give those teams losses. I'm sticking with my preseason prediction of 5-15 in conference.

 

[goru7]

The analyst was saying the same thing during the Oregon game. But from my observation, it's less about attacking the glass and more about boxing out. Once the ball goes up you have to get your man on your back with you facing the basket. Then whether the rebound is short or long, you have the advantage.

Boxing out is a lost art. Lou, just watch our guards. They watch when their man takes a shot instead of going to the glass for the rebound. Underwood in his presser today , another thread , was saying the same thing about the amount of watching instead of going to the glass after a shot goes up.

 

[bac2therac]

With RU's win over Oregon and the rest of the Big 10 exciting action, do I dare say I am starting to get a little blood flowing in my blue and frigid arteries. To be honest I have not watched as many Big 10 games as in previous years but here is a go. Rankings based on a combo of overall and current Big 10 play.

1. Michigan
2. Purdue
3. Nebraska
4. Michigan State
5. Illinois
6. Ohio State
7. USC
8. Wisconsin
9. Minnesota
10. Iowa
11. UCLA
12. Indiana
13. Washington
14. Oregon
15. Penn State
16. Rutgers
17. Northwestern
18. Maryland


TOP TIER

The Big 10 is extremely top heavy. In fact its the most top heavy in quite some time. There are 2 elite teams in Michigan and Purdue. Nebraska and Michigan State are close maybe a notch below. No shame in Michigan slip in performance at Penn State and they probably needed a close game. Purdue's only slip up was to #3 Iowa State. Nebraska looks tough as nails and the schedule could be setting up a 20-0 Nebby vs 19-0 Michigan matchup in late January. Izzo has Sparty playing their best hoops in years and have a favorable upcoming stretch where they can stack wins.
Illinois is just a notch below this group. Typical explosive bombs away offense. As usual with Underwood programs it comes down to consistency but they figure to be right there fighting for a top 4 seed in the NCAA tourney.

LARGE MUDDLED MIDDLE

Its fair to put about 7 schools in this grouping. We are only 4 games into the conference slate so things will change rapidly here. Some schools may have a bigger upside than others while others will stack losses eventually and slip out of NCAA contention. Ohio State is your typical fringe NCAA team. Not overwhelming but they will compete in every game. Their road swing to the Pacific Northwest schools will give us some more answers. USC was given the business by both Michigan and Michigan State and needs to regain their momentum from earlier in the year when they knocked off Seton Hall. Last nights loss at Minnesota and a rough 3 game stretch ahead cools their jets for now.Wisconsin got a much needed win over UCLA that should help their confidence and will likely be hanging around the bubble all year long. Where to put Minnesota is the question. Based on Big 10 play they belong in the middle for sure whether they can sustain that and deserve to be higher is another story. Univerally picked in the bottom 3 in the league the Medved move really paying off. A couple winnable home games next up before things get tougher could be the key to their season. MacCollum has done a good job with the Iowa turnaround from last year but can he sustain it now the games are getting tougher.UCLA in the midst of 4 of 5 road games before getting 5 of 6 home games. Hard to get a gauge on where the Bruins stand currently as their best win all year is at Washington. Indiana has a gauntlet stretch coming up and the results have been just so so to date so winning at Maryland tonight is imperative or else they are likely headed into the bottom 6

BOTTOM 6

Any of these schools can beat each other on any given night. Some may even put in a scare to the top tier at home but don't see how any of them move out of this group. Washington may have the best shot but a rugged 6 game slate coming up figures to make or break their season. In that stretch they get the top 4 schools in the league, 2 at home. Oregon may have the most talent in this grouping and when healthy would be a NCAA contender but too many things have gone wrong so far and losing at Rutgers not a good sign. Upcoming stretch against 3 of the top 4 schools should seal their fate if they cannot win a couple of them. Penn State may be 0-4 in league but any school that comes within 2 points of Michigan deserves props....and they also just lost to Michigan State by 4. Rutgers by far had the worst out of conference performance but last 2 at the RAC with a win over Oregon indicating some life. Big home game vs Nort The losses could pile up real quickly for Northwestern with 4 of 6 on the road and 2 monsters at home. Maryland is barely registering a pulse thus far for Buzz failing to beat any school with a winning record.

LFG


1. Purdue
2. Michigan
3. Nebraska
4. Michigan State
5. Illinois
6. Wisconsin
7. USC
8. Ohio State
9. Indiana
10. Iowa
11. Minnesota
12. UCLA
13. Washington
14. RUTGERS
15. Penn State
16. Oregon
17. Northwestern
18. Maryland

 

[BigEastPhil]

I think there’s a lot of upside potential with UCLA and Washington.

 

[bac2therac]

I think there’s a lot of upside potential with UCLA and Washington.

Could be.. they will have start delivering the wins. Good one for Washington tonight over OSU and they do have a win over USC too

Can either win away from the West Cosst

 

[PSAL_Hoops]

Thanks BAC. Love this stuff and analysis which is what made the board great in past years.

Excellent summary of the league and the tiers. I am mostly or totally in agreement. I do believe Nebraska is there with Michigan and Purdue because they are winning on the road and winning close games. They have learned how to win and Hoiberg is clearly the favorite for Coach of the Year.
The rest are a bunch of good but not great teams that each have at least 1 All Big 10 player and some have 2 . Like Ohio State who has Thornton , Oregon who has Biddle , Illinois has 2 , Iowa has Strich , Wisconsin has Blackwell , UCLA has Dent , USC has the local kid transfer from Auburn, Washington has the freshman phenom , Northwestern has Martinelli , Indiana has Singleton and Devries . Michigan State has a team of good not great players , as does Minnesota, and Penn State and Maryland but no super players

What I find interesting is what Pike has done the last 4 games but definitely the last 2 conference games, with the move bringing Francis off the bench. Before he was arguably doing the worst coaching job and not getting his rotations right this far into the year had been a terrible fail on his part and the team played worse as a result. Suddenly there is more juice , and a hope , which had vanished , of competing , especially at home against the rest of the conference except the top tier . Whether it is Francis in the microwave role off the bench that seems to limit our scoring draughts or just getting the team to play better. All of a sudden turnovers are minimal where they were ridiculously bad early ,. We still have a huge rebounding problem and he has failed to get across the whole team especially the guards must rebound. They cannot watch their defender launch a shot or a 3, and turn around and watch. They have to go attack the glass. Oregon shot 57% in the first half but 36% in the second half but we gave up like 10 rebounds allowing second chance points that almost bit us on the *** . He has to solve that immediately .

He has to get offensive production out of Dylan and Buchanan and Powers and Zrno and JMike . He has to try and inside out game with Manny because right now we have none which makes it easier for the defense . We cannot continue to play 4 on 5 on offense. Jay Young teach Manny or Dorsch a drop step.

Anyway great post by you and hope has resurfaced after the last 2 conference games. Can it translate and be brought on the road? Powers and Zrno hitting threes and Dylan being featured would really help . Let’s see where this goes with this team that has less talent than our conference foes .

The good news is that it seems to be confirmed that Dylan has been battling sickness and working his way back. There was one tie up at the end of the game where he nearly had a rebound ripped right out of his hand and it was very obvious his lethargy has nothing to do with the level of competition and he was simply gassed / lacking his normal strength.

Hopefully the week off will give him the time he needs to build back his strength because another scoring option would be a big help.

While I’d normally agree about the offense, due to the lack of scoring talent at the center position, running traditional ball rotations (not that this is Pike’s strength anyway) may not be the best way to go due to our lack of inside options. Simply put, the iso routes might actually be our best approach this season based on the skill set we have available. It should be pointed out that we’re probably hitting 3s at a high rate off the dribble (Davis and Francis) than we are on catch and shoot assisted 3s (likely for the reason I stated - you don’t get as many clean looks on the perimeter when you can’t play inside / out). Maybe Grant can help with that but he’s more of a physical thrasher type scorer who crashes the offensive glass than a true post scoring threat.

 

[PSAL_Hoops]

Can someone remind me the criteria to compete in the Crown / the NIT? I know we turned down one or both last year (presumably because Pike knew most of the team was moving on).

Hypothetically - if we were to sweep Maryland and PSU (I know it’s not likely but there’s nothing else to root for this season so what the heck) and find one more win against someone else at home - would one outbracket win in the Big Tourney get us a bid in either of those post season tournaments (15-18)?

 

[Jerseylegends]

I haven't seen them play this year, what's up with Maryland? Weren't they supposed to be good?

 

[bac2therac]

The good news is that it seems to be confirmed that Dylan has been battling sickness and working his way back. There was one tie up at the end of the game where he nearly had a rebound ripped right out of his hand and it was very obvious his lethargy has nothing to do with the level of competition and he was simply gassed / lacking his normal strength.

Hopefully the week off will give him the time he needs to build back his strength because another scoring option would be a big help.

While I’d normally agree about the offense, due to the lack of scoring talent at the center position, running traditional ball rotations (not that this is Pike’s strength anyway) may not be the best way to go due to our lack of inside options. Simply put, the iso routes might actually be our best approach this season based on the skill set we have available. It should be pointed out that we’re probably hitting 3s at a high rate off the dribble (Davis and Francis) than we are on catch and shoot assisted 3s (likely for the reason I stated - you don’t get as many clean looks on the perimeter when you can’t play inside / out). Maybe Grant can help with that but he’s more of a physical thrasher type scorer who crashes the offensive glass than a true post scoring threat.

if the object is to win as many games as possible then Pike just has to roll with the iso and Francis. Volume shooter must take over 20 a game maybe even 25...at some point opposing coaches are going to figure out to defend but before that cat is out of the bag we just simply lack offensive threats and they are giving zrno and badalou wide open looks as they know he can miss

Im assuming more attention may be paid to Buchanan now in opponents game planning

 

[bac2therac]

Can someone remind me the criteria to compete in the Crown / the NIT? I know we turned down one or both last year (presumably because Pike knew most of the team was moving on).

Hypothetically - if we were to sweep Maryland and PSU (I know it’s not likely but there’s nothing else to root for this season so what the heck) and find one more win against someone else at home - would one outbracket win in the Big Tourney get us a bid in either of those post season tournaments (15-18)?

Can someone remind me the criteria to compete in the Crown / the NIT? I know we turned down one or both last year (presumably because Pike knew most of the team was moving on).

Hypothetically - if we were to sweep Maryland and PSU (I know it’s not likely but there’s nothing else to root for this season so what the heck) and find one more win against someone else at home - would one outbracket win in the Big Tourney get us a bid in either of those post season tournaments (15-18)?

I think like the top 2 net schools from big 10 not selected are guaranteed spots. I also think alot of schools tend to turn down post season not in ncaa so schools that are sub 500 can go. Honestly I wouldnt say we are good enough to do anything in a tourney like that. Nebby didnt make the big 10 yet they were ncaa bubble right until the last week. I really hate the idea of sub 500 school in post season

 

[bac2therac]

I haven't seen them play this year, what's up with Maryland? Weren't they supposed to be good?

they were definitely suppose to be better but big drop off given they lost most players from last year and then Buzz scrambled to add from portal being hired late. I hear they have a very good class coming in next year but they will still need portal additions. They still have not beat a team with a winning record this year. They will have a hard time not finishing in the bottom 2.

 

[LeapinLou]

they were definitely suppose to be better but big drop off given they lost most players from last year and then Buzz scrambled to add from portal being hired late. I hear they have a very good class coming in next year but they will still need portal additions. They still have not beat a team with a winning record this year. They will have a hard time not finishing in the bottom 2.

They led the nation in minutes from their starting 5. They basically played 6-7 guys and none of them are back. They got the star Freshman Darius Adams (played at Manasquan) and he's good but not enough of a supporting cast to be a star as a Freshman. Obviously, he'll be much more experienced by the time we play them. Our home game against them will be a must-win.

 

[PSAL_Hoops]

I think like the top 2 net schools from big 10 not selected are guaranteed spots. I also think alot of schools tend to turn down post season not in ncaa so schools that are sub 500 can go. Honestly I wouldnt say we are good enough to do anything in a tourney like that. Nebby didnt make the big 10 yet they were ncaa bubble right until the last week. I really hate the idea of sub 500 school in post season

I hear you. Although, to be fair, technically we’ve been competitive in all 5 of our quad 2 and 3 games so far (which is probably around the level of what those tournaments end up being). We’re 3-2 in those games but OSU and ND were games we could’ve won on a given day. Chalk Central Ct up to being our annual WTF game.

Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem like we have the kind of roster that can step up on a given day to knock off the top tier Q1 teams but look - every team we’ve lost to besides ND and Central Ct could make the NCAAs.

 

[Jerseylegends]

they were definitely suppose to be better but big drop off given they lost most players from last year and then Buzz scrambled to add from portal being hired late. I hear they have a very good class coming in next year but they will still need portal additions. They still have not beat a team with a winning record this year. They will have a hard time not finishing in the bottom 2.

I think his sister was on the Rutgers women's team last year. Destiny Adams I believe her name is. I think he visited here at least I remember the staff recruiting him..

 

[bac2therac]

Wisconsin rallied from double digits down to win at Minnesota last night. The let down after the Michigan win was expected but Minnesota is no joke this year. Whats intersting to note is both team only play 7 players basically and Minnesota has 3 go 38 or more. Michigan State dispatched of Indiana pretty easily. Oregon in a world of hurt after losing to Nebraska 90-55 and ditto for Maryland who lost again out at USC

 

[LeapinLou]

I'm still feeling some bias for the blue bloods and am not yet ready to put Nebraska ahead of MSU and Illinois. But no question you have the top 5 (in whatever order) correct.

OK well now it's getting harder to say Nebraska isn't in the top 3. Kudos to them for sticking with Hoiberg. He had some really down years but their patience has been rewarded.

 

[PatrickRU92]

I have not yet seen MD play this year, but how is it possible they're this bad?

 

[bac2therac]

LFG


1. Purdue
2. Michigan
3. Nebraska
4. Michigan State
5. Illinois
6. Wisconsin
7. USC
8. Ohio State
9. Indiana
10. Iowa
11. Minnesota
12. UCLA
13. Washington
14. RUTGERS
15. Penn State
16. Oregon
17. Northwestern
18. Maryland

1. Purdue
2. Michigan
3. Nebraska
4. Michigan State
5. Illinois
6. Wisconsin
7. Ohio State
8. Iowa
9. USC
10. UCLA
11, Indiana
12. Minnesota
13. Washington
14. Rutgers
15. Maryland
16. Oregon
17. Penn State
18. Northwestern


The tiers really starting to sort themselves out. You have the 5 NCAA locks then a tier of about 5 or 6 schools that look to contend. Wisconsin obviously looking good right and as we have already seen on their best day they could beat one of the top 5. Ohio State and Iowa are positioning themselves and have the feel of being 9 or 10 seeds. USC and UCLA have been praire doggin during the season. They are right there for contentin for a NCAA bid but need to get some signature wins. Indiana and Minnesota have some ability but not sure enough talent and consistency but seem a step above the lower tier. Perhaps Washington straddles right on the line between middle tier and lower. The bottom 5 really look awful at times and are all already eliminated from NCAA contention.

Big games this week will be a real test for Purdue who were lucky to escape USC on Saturday and a tough battle with Iowa earlier in the week.

1/20: Purdue at UCLA
1/24: Illinois at Purdue

 

[dconifer0]

I have not yet seen MD play this year, but how is it possible they're this bad?

They are pretty bad, ha ha. Most of Buzz's portal acquisitions have not lived up to the hype, and their most important player (Pharrell Payne) went down with a season-ending injury in December.

There was a 100% turnover in roster, coaching staff (and athletic director) since last season. That's the way it goes in NCAA sports now, I guess. When I hear a player's name during a game I have to remind myself which team he plays for.

Lots of high level freshman talent coming in next year, as of this moment, anyway...

 

[bac2therac]

UCLA signature win over Purdue last night!

 

[knightfan7]

I think his sister was on the Rutgers women's team last year. Destiny Adams I believe her name is. I think he visited here at least I remember the staff recruiting him..

Yes, that's her. As I remember Darius was thought to be a Rutgers lean for a while, then it was either Indiana or Illinois. Didn't realize he was at UMd.

He's shooting 26% from 3. Odds he goes over 50% vs RU?

 

[Degaz-RU]

With RU's win over Oregon and the rest of the Big 10 exciting action, do I dare say I am starting to get a little blood flowing in my blue and frigid arteries. To be honest I have not watched as many Big 10 games as in previous years but here is a go. Rankings based on a combo of overall and current Big 10 play.

1. Michigan
2. Purdue
3. Nebraska
4. Michigan State
5. Illinois
6. Ohio State
7. USC
8. Wisconsin
9. Minnesota
10. Iowa
11. UCLA
12. Indiana
13. Washington
14. Oregon
15. Penn State
16. Rutgers
17. Northwestern
18. Maryland


TOP TIER

The Big 10 is extremely top heavy. In fact its the most top heavy in quite some time. There are 2 elite teams in Michigan and Purdue. Nebraska and Michigan State are close maybe a notch below. No shame in Michigan slip in performance at Penn State and they probably needed a close game. Purdue's only slip up was to #3 Iowa State. Nebraska looks tough as nails and the schedule could be setting up a 20-0 Nebby vs 19-0 Michigan matchup in late January. Izzo has Sparty playing their best hoops in years and have a favorable upcoming stretch where they can stack wins.
Illinois is just a notch below this group. Typical explosive bombs away offense. As usual with Underwood programs it comes down to consistency but they figure to be right there fighting for a top 4 seed in the NCAA tourney.

LARGE MUDDLED MIDDLE

Its fair to put about 7 schools in this grouping. We are only 4 games into the conference slate so things will change rapidly here. Some schools may have a bigger upside than others while others will stack losses eventually and slip out of NCAA contention. Ohio State is your typical fringe NCAA team. Not overwhelming but they will compete in every game. Their road swing to the Pacific Northwest schools will give us some more answers. USC was given the business by both Michigan and Michigan State and needs to regain their momentum from earlier in the year when they knocked off Seton Hall. Last nights loss at Minnesota and a rough 3 game stretch ahead cools their jets for now.Wisconsin got a much needed win over UCLA that should help their confidence and will likely be hanging around the bubble all year long. Where to put Minnesota is the question. Based on Big 10 play they belong in the middle for sure whether they can sustain that and deserve to be higher is another story. Univerally picked in the bottom 3 in the league the Medved move really paying off. A couple winnable home games next up before things get tougher could be the key to their season. MacCollum has done a good job with the Iowa turnaround from last year but can he sustain it now the games are getting tougher.UCLA in the midst of 4 of 5 road games before getting 5 of 6 home games. Hard to get a gauge on where the Bruins stand currently as their best win all year is at Washington. Indiana has a gauntlet stretch coming up and the results have been just so so to date so winning at Maryland tonight is imperative or else they are likely headed into the bottom 6

BOTTOM 6

Any of these schools can beat each other on any given night. Some may even put in a scare to the top tier at home but don't see how any of them move out of this group. Washington may have the best shot but a rugged 6 game slate coming up figures to make or break their season. In that stretch they get the top 4 schools in the league, 2 at home. Oregon may have the most talent in this grouping and when healthy would be a NCAA contender but too many things have gone wrong so far and losing at Rutgers not a good sign. Upcoming stretch against 3 of the top 4 schools should seal their fate if they cannot win a couple of them. Penn State may be 0-4 in league but any school that comes within 2 points of Michigan deserves props....and they also just lost to Michigan State by 4. Rutgers by far had the worst out of conference performance but last 2 at the RAC with a win over Oregon indicating some life. Big home game vs Nort The losses could pile up real quickly for Northwestern with 4 of 6 on the road and 2 monsters at home. Maryland is barely registering a pulse thus far for Buzz failing to beat any school with a winning record.

Two weeks later, this three-tiered power ranking still holds, perhaps with some movement within each tier.

Tier 1: Penthouse:
1. Michigan
2. Nebraska
3. MSU
4. Purdue
5. Illinois

Tier 2a: Upper Floors:
6-7. (tie). Wisconsin/UCLA
8. Ohio State
9-10. (tie). Iowa/USC

Tier 2b: Middle Floors - close to becoming Tier 3, and the Basement would become Tier 4
11. Indiana
12. Minnesota

Tier 3: Basement:
13-16 (tie) - no real separation and no real "order" -- Washington, Rutgers, Maryland, Oregon
17-18 (tie) - same - Northwestern and Penn State

 

[seansherm]

Yes, that's her. As I remember Darius was thought to be a Rutgers lean for a while, then it was either Indiana or Illinois. Didn't realize he was at UMd.

He's shooting 26% from 3. Odds he goes over 50% vs RU?

Don't think he was ever interested in RU from what I've heard from people at Squan

 

[LeapinLou]

Don't think he was ever interested in RU from what I've heard from people at Squan

I spoke to him once when he was a junior. He was polite about RU and said the right things, but I ended the conversation thinking we were a long shot.

 

[bac2therac]

Two weeks later, this three-tiered power ranking still holds, perhaps with some movement within each tier.

Tier 1: Penthouse:
1. Michigan
2. Nebraska
3. MSU
4. Purdue
5. Illinois

Tier 2a: Upper Floors:
6-7. (tie). Wisconsin/UCLA
8. Ohio State
9-10. (tie). Iowa/USC

Tier 2b: Middle Floors - close to becoming Tier 3, and the Basement would become Tier 4
11. Indiana
12. Minnesota

Tier 3: Basement:
13-16 (tie) - no real separation and no real "order" -- Washington, Rutgers, Maryland, Oregon
17-18 (tie) - same - Northwestern and Penn State

yep things pretty much shaking out how we thought they would.

Big 10 could get 10 schools but as little as 8. The UCLA win over Purdue was big for them.

Indiana the biggest disappointment and they poured a ton of money into their coach and NIL and they are now facing a must win situation at Rutgers. Minnesota is much improved and playing tight games but just not enough talent this year.

 

[RUDiddy777]

Two weeks later, this three-tiered power ranking still holds, perhaps with some movement within each tier.

Tier 1: Penthouse:
1. Michigan
2. Nebraska
3. MSU
4. Purdue
5. Illinois

Tier 2a: Upper Floors:
6-7. (tie). Wisconsin/UCLA
8. Ohio State
9-10. (tie). Iowa/USC

Tier 2b: Middle Floors - close to becoming Tier 3, and the Basement would become Tier 4
11. Indiana
12. Minnesota

Tier 3: Basement:
13-16 (tie) - no real separation and no real "order" -- Washington, Rutgers, Maryland, Oregon
17-18 (tie) - same - Northwestern and Penn State

Good stuff. Would love to see us make some room for ourselves in Tier 2B.

 

[seansherm]

I spoke to him once when he was a junior. He was polite about RU and said the right things, but I ended the conversation thinking we were a long shot.

Never got the impression he bad mouthed RU or anything, but yeah his eyes were looking bigger, hence leaving state

 

[bac2therac]

hideous home loss by USC. While its true for now its just a Q2 home loss as Northwestern NET is way inflated, the reality is Northwestern is not a good team and thats 2 home losses (Washington the other) for the Trojans. You cant lose to an 0-7 school at home with a bruising road trip ahead.

 

[RAC93]

hideous home loss by USC. While its true for now its just a Q2 home loss as Northwestern NET is way inflated, the reality is Northwestern is not a good team and thats 2 home losses (Washington the other) for the Trojans. You cant lose to an 0-7 school at home with a bruising road trip ahead.

Hopefully Rutgers slams them with another bad home loss next week. A chance for a road win in the BIG for RU. Also, have chances for a road win against PSU, Minnesota, and Maryland. We gotta get at least one road win in conf., …….right???

 

[goru7]

Hopefully Rutgers slams them with another bad home loss next week. A chance for a road win in the BIG for RU. Also, have chances for a road win against PSU, Minnesota, and Maryland. We gotta get at least one road win in conf., …….right???

Son lives in LA. Going to see USC and UCLA games in next 10 days or so. Would love to see some road wins.

 

[bac2therac]

1. Purdue
2. Michigan
3. Nebraska
4. Michigan State
5. Illinois
6. Wisconsin
7. Ohio State
8. Iowa
9. USC
10. UCLA
11, Indiana
12. Minnesota
13. Washington
14. Rutgers
15. Maryland
16. Oregon
17. Penn State
18. Northwestern


The tiers really starting to sort themselves out. You have the 5 NCAA locks then a tier of about 5 or 6 schools that look to contend. Wisconsin obviously looking good right and as we have already seen on their best day they could beat one of the top 5. Ohio State and Iowa are positioning themselves and have the feel of being 9 or 10 seeds. USC and UCLA have been praire doggin during the season. They are right there for contentin for a NCAA bid but need to get some signature wins. Indiana and Minnesota have some ability but not sure enough talent and consistency but seem a step above the lower tier. Perhaps Washington straddles right on the line between middle tier and lower. The bottom 5 really look awful at times and are all already eliminated from NCAA contention.

Big games this week will be a real test for Purdue who were lucky to escape USC on Saturday and a tough battle with Iowa earlier in the week.

1/20: Purdue at UCLA
1/24: Illinois at Purdue

1. Michigan
2. Nebraska
3. Michigan State
4. Illinois
5. Purdue
6. Wisconsin
7. UCLA
8. Iowa
9. USC
10. Ohio State
11. Indiana
12. Minnesota
13. Washington
14. Rutgers
15. Northwestern
16. Oregon
17. Maryland
18. Penn State

Purdue dropped a heartbreaker to UCLA and blew a lead vs Illinois so big drop for them. Illini are for real. Nebraska and Michigan keep rolling and both have a gigantic week ahead for Big 10 title and NCAA #1 seed implications. I would say Big 10 has 9 in the field right now but Ohio State and Indiana are knocking at the door. It appears the botom 5 are getting worse although Northwestern scored the upset at USC so there is a faint pulse

Games to Watch

1/27: Nebraska at Michigan....this is the one I have been waiting for. Nebby will be annointed with a win. Its a shame I will be stuck at the RAC
1/27: Purdue at Indiana....Hoosiers yet to notch a marquee win hosts a Boilermaker team coming off two straight close losses
1/28: USC at Iowa....nice middle of the pack matchup with 2 schools looking to stack quality wins
1/30: Michigan at Michigan State....huge matchup near the top, what a tough week for the Wolverines
1/31: Ohio State at Wisconsin....Buckeyes need to start getting some quality wins if they want a NCAA tourney push
2/1: Illinois at Nebraska....Brutal week for Huskers and Illinois has a whole week to rest up for this game.

 

[BigEastPhil]

Top 5 schools in Big 10 are incredible.

Bottom 5 schools in Big 10 are piss poor awful.

BAC - where do you rank Big 10 in terms of conferences in BB?

 

[Anon1754923206]

Top 5 schools in Big 10 are incredible.

Bottom 5 schools in Big 10 are piss poor awful.

…and lots of blah blah ho-hum in the middle?

 

[RUDiddy777]

…and lots of blah blah ho-hum in the middle?

3-5 of those ho-hums will be tourney bound, which is where we want to be next year.

 

[bac2therac]

Mic

1. Michigan
2. Nebraska
3. Michigan State
4. Illinois
5. Purdue
6. Wisconsin
7. UCLA
8. Iowa
9. USC
10. Ohio State
11. Indiana
12. Minnesota
13. Washington
14. Rutgers
15. Northwestern
16. Oregon
17. Maryland
18. Penn State

Purdue dropped a heartbreaker to UCLA and blew a lead vs Illinois so big drop for them. Illini are for real. Nebraska and Michigan keep rolling and both have a gigantic week ahead for Big 10 title and NCAA #1 seed implications. I would say Big 10 has 9 in the field right now but Ohio State and Indiana are knocking at the door. It appears the botom 5 are getting worse although Northwestern scored the upset at USC so there is a faint pulse

Games to Watch

1/27: Nebraska at Michigan....this is the one I have been waiting for. Nebby will be annointed with a win. Its a shame I will be stuck at the RAC
1/27: Purdue at Indiana....Hoosiers yet to notch a marquee win hosts a Boilermaker team coming off two straight close losses
1/28: USC at Iowa....nice middle of the pack matchup with 2 schools looking to stack quality wins
1/30: Michigan at Michigan State....huge matchup near the top, what a tough week for the Wolverines
1/31: Ohio State at Wisconsin....Buckeyes need to start getting some quality wins if they want a NCAA tourney push
2/1: Illinois at Nebraska....Brutal week for Huskers and Illinois has a whole week to rest up for this game.

Michigan rallies at the end to knock of Nebby despite a brutal stat line poor shooting and turnovers. Wolverines head to East Lansing in another war for the top of the Big 10 standings. Nebraska proved themselves worthy in the loss. They are for real and they get Illinois at home this weekend. Indiana got their marquee win over Purdue and they might be onto something now. Boilermakers have dropped 3 straight so Painter has to figure out some things.