7. Houston (8-1)
Recent results suggest that Houston is the best team in the Big 12 though that idea is being challenged early this season by a few other programs. Regardless, the Cougars continue to remain a national threat even if they haven’t always looked the part. They’ve paired a solid win against Auburn with a tough loss to Tennessee alongside a few other wins to date and were finally back in action this weekend after more than a week off.
Back home from Las Vegas and that eventful Players Era Festival, the Cougars got another win by taking care of Florida State on Saturday night in an 82-67 contest. Emanuel Sharp scored 27 points to lead the charge while the Cougars’ freshman duo continued to excel: Kingston Flemings had 21 points while Chris Cenac Jr. added 15 points and 10 rebounds.
The defense is elite once again and that’s not a big surprise for this Kelvin Sampson squad but the offense is playing better recently as well. A somewhat underwhelming resume and some questionable metrics may keep Houston down right now, but this still looks like a team that can win another Big 12 title, especially if those elite freshmen keep playing like this. It’s easy sailing next week featuring home dates against Jackson State and New Orleans.