17. Mississippi State Bulldogs
Record: 9-1 (0-0 SEC)
Last Week: No. 19
Another team that snagged a big win in their only contest of the week, Mississippi State took down Cincinnati to move to 9-1 on the year. The Bulldogs have not played the most challenging schedule in the nation so far this year but they have definitely played to expectations as a preseason top-25 team so far this year. No major complaints regarding how head coach Ben Howland’s team has started out this year.
Mississippi State, who ranks in the top-25 of both adjusted offensive and defensive efficiency, is one of the most balanced teams in the nation and they can beat any opponent at any pace. The Bulldogs have the experience, versatility, size, and shooting of a team that could make some serious noise in the SEC and the postseason.
One player that has stood out to me for the Bulldogs, though, has been freshman Reggie Perry. A top-50 recruit in the nation, the 6-foot-10 big is currently posting 7.3 points and 5.8 rebounds in less than 20 minutes per game as a major contributor for the team. As he continues to develop, Mississippi State will continue to improve.