6. SMU Mustangs - 7-2
The raw numbers for the Mustangs are misleading. They have a top-15 scoring offense, thanks to a trio of 100+ point games so far against inferior competition. But they gave up 80+ points against Butler and Mississippi State, both of which ended in defeats.
There are five double-digit scorers, led by Wake Forest transfer Kevin Miller (15.6 ppg and 5.8 apg). Freshman center Samet Yigitoglu has made an impact since being cleared to play, and overall, they’re a solid shooting team. Now, there needs to be proof that they can beat high-major opponents.
5. Louisville Cardinals - 5-3
The depth for the Cardinals has been tested in a major way, with starting forward Kasean Pryor (12.0 ppg and 6.1 rpg) out for the season, along with Washington transfer Koren Johnson. Chucky Hepburn (15.1 ppg and 4.5 apg) has been an impact transfer, while former Charleston guard Reyne Smith (12.5 ppg) is one of the best impact shooters in the country.
Louisville does have wins over Indiana and West Virginia and zero bad losses on its resume. But will the injuries eventually catch up to them? They have major resume-building opportunities coming up against Duke and Kentucky in the next week and will need to find a way to split them.