NCAA Basketball Power Rankings: Tennessee, MSU vie for top spot

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 21: Admiral Schofield #5 of the Tennessee Volunteers and the rest of his team's bench react after a foul is called on Louisville Cardinals during the first half of the game during the NIT Season Tip-Off tournament at Barclays Center on November 21, 2018 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images) /

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DAYTON, OH – NOVEMBER 30: Weatherspoon #11 of the Bulldogs handles. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

19. Mississippi State Bulldogs

Record: 14-3 (2-2 SEC)

Last Week: No. 23

Mississippi State slipped a bit during my rankings last week following back-to-back losses. In this past week, though, the Bulldogs responded in a big way with wins over Florida (home) and Vanderbilt (away). And considerating several teams dropped games while Mississippi State was winning, their rise up the rankings should not be a surprise. The Bulldogs have played at a high level throughout this season, especially on the offensive end of the floor.

On the whole, Mississippi State is one of the more balanced teams in the nation with a strong group of upperclassmen leading the way. And while he might not lead the team in scoring, senior big man Aric Holman is among the top contributors. As one of the major cogs in the rotation, Holtman is averaging 12.4 points (.490/.443/.738), 8.1 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game.

The Bulldogs are among the best offensive rebounding teams in the nation and that should prove to be an advantage as conference play continues. In addition, Mississippi State shoots the ball well from distance and spreads the wealth offensively.

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