10. Florida State Seminoles - 7-2
Yes, the Seminoles have had the softest schedule of any ACC team and lost to the only two good opponents (Florida and LSU). But to their credit, they’ve avoided any bad losses and handily beaten the mid-major foes.
Jamir Watkins (17.0 ppg and 4.7 rpg) has been the star as expected. Still, the supporting cast has been solid, including former JUCO All-American Malique Ewin (11.2 ppg and 6.7 rpg) and Daquan Davis, the freshman guard producing 8.3 ppg and 2.2 apg. Time will tell if Coach Leonard Hamilton can keep this roster competitive, but they’ve performed above expectations.
9. NC State Wolfpack - 5-3
After five wins against mid-major competition, NC State has lost three straight games. Losing to Texas, Purdue, and BYU isn’t the worst in the world, but scoring no more than 61 points is a scary issue if high-major teams can slow them down.
Jayden Taylor (13.5 ppg) has emerged as the go-to option in the backcourt, while transfers Marcus Hill and Brandon Huntley-Hatfield have been solid as double-digit contributors. But they’re missing Louisville transfer Mike James, who hasn’t suited up for them this season and could use another offensive boost somewhere.