NCAA Basketball: Creighton’s fall, Mountain West success among biggest takeaways

9. Road warriors?

Nonconference play is nearly over; there are only a couple more weeks for some of these teams while others are already playing conference games. One of the most interesting takeaways at this point of the season is the attempt to compare teams based on record alone. Some teams with impressive records play have played weak opposition (Missouri), while others have been really challenged in nonconference play and would have a better record otherwise (Gonzaga).

First and foremost, there are a number of programs that have yet to play a true road game. Texas, Tennessee, Duke, Arkansas, Auburn, and TCU are all ranked and have all yet to be tested away from home. These are all great programs that will win games away from home in conference play, but that’ll also struggle against some of these hostile road environments. Heck, Arizona, Baylor, Gonzaga, Illinois, and Kentucky all sit 0-1 on the road this season.

On the other side, there are a number of teams already battle-tested on the road, and we’re not just talking about power conference programs. UMass Lowell has gotten their season off to an impressive 11-2 start and lead the nation with five true road wins, falling just short this past Tuesday against Rhode Island in a quest for their sixth. American also has 5 road wins, with one of those coming against Georgetown in an impressive performance.

Playing games on the road early isn’t necessary, but it’s an interesting trend to note. Both Purdue and Alabama have won twice on the road already this season, with one of those Crimson Tide victories coming against #1 Houston. Alabama is ready for SEC play and to go into those hostile road environments in the conference. Can we say the same about Mississippi State or someone like TCU in the Big 12?