12. Houston (5-3)
Having three losses in November was a bit eye-opening for the Cougars, who still rank among the top teams in the nation according to many of the analytical rating systems. This team plays smart offense and suffocating defense, but dropped a close game to Auburn and a pair of overtime thrillers against Alabama and San Diego State. This week was the beginning of them getting back on track in all aspects.
The only game from this past week came late Saturday as Houston beat Butler 79-51. This home game was part of the Big 12/Big East Battle and wasn’t much of a contest, with the Cougars scoring another easy win. LJ Cryer had 20 points, Emmanuel Sharp scored 16, and Houston hit half of their 3-pointers and all of their free throws in a great team win over the Bulldogs.
Kelvin Sampson’s squad has probably taken a step back, and is still waiting to see if Cryer can carry the mantle left behind by Jamal Shead last season. Regardless, the Cougars look the part of a national contender even with the early struggles and should continue to prove that in the weeks before Big 12 play begins. Next week’s only contest should be an easy one against Troy and the Cougars won’t really be challenged again until after Christmas.