10. Houston (6-3)
The rise of Houston basketball has been so prolific in recent years that it’s almost shocking when you really look back. You can basically call it disappointing that the Cougars have three losses already this year, even if they’ve come against three teams currently in the national rankings. Houston is still figuring everything out on both sides of the ball in replacing Jamal Shead and other recent stars, but that defense looked sharp again this week.
The lone action was a Tuesday night game against Troy, and Houston made quick work of the Trojans in a 62-42 victory. This was another game where Houston wasn’t making their shots around the basket, something they desperately need to get right in the weeks ahead. However, LJ Cryer continues to prove he can be the star on this team, as he had 22 points in the win.
The Cougars have six wins on the season and they allowed less than 55 points in all of those results. The losses came to elite Alabama and Auburn squads and a very tough San Diego State team, but Houston has shown little weakness when they can overpower their opponents. You can expect two more significant wins next week, starting with Toledo on Wednesday, but you have to wonder if this team will get right in the paint even with stellar shooting from outside the arc.