10. Toledo Rockets (11-1)
The only program to make the list without having to face a power conference opponent this season, us voters have been impressed with what Toledo has done with the teams they’ve faced so far. After losing at Wright State, the Rockets have won nine straight, including against strong mid-majors such as Marshall, Louisiana and UC-Irvine.
The Rockets have a strong offense with two players as focal points. Senior guard Jaelan Sanford leads the team with 18 ppg while 6’6 forward Willie Jackson is averaging a double-double on the season with 11.3 ppg and 10.3 rpg. The former Missouri Tiger is one of five players on the team averaging double figures, with sophomore point guard Marreon Jackson being the primary playmaker at around five assists a game.
Toledo makes nearly 40% of their three-pointers with senior forward Nate Navigato being the primary source of their long balls. He also forms a formidable frontcourt set with AJ Edu and Luke Knapke to provide the size needed to contend in the MAC.
There’s a clear frontrunner in the MAC (more on them later) but both Kent State and Toledo have shown a capability to give them a run in the regular season. With the Rockets ability to shoot from deep combined with the team’s overall experience, they may present the biggest challenge to the heavyweight.