1. Michigan (8-0)
When we last considered the Wolverines, they were coming off one of the best weeks that a team has ever had in November in recent memory. Michigan punctuated their national presence with three blowout wins at the Players Era Festival, with that 40-point blowout over Gonzaga likely sticking in people’s minds for months to come. After more than a week off following that event, would there be any signs of rust for Dusty May’s squad?
The answer was a clear no, as Michigan made quick work of Rutgers in their Big Ten debut, ousting the Scarlet Knights 101-60 on Saturday afternoon. The Wolverines owned virtually every aspect of the game, shooting 60% from the field and 45% from outside the arc. Morez Johnson Jr. scored 22 points and was one of six Wolverines in double figures in the blowout.
Those close battles against TCU and Wake Forest feel like ages ago with the way that Michigan has been playing ball more recently. The Wolverines look clearly like the class of the Big Ten and a true national contender, with a loaded lineup full of talented transfers and production. Every game is important and the Wolverines aren’t exactly playing nobodies, getting battles with Villanova and at Maryland in the days ahead.
We’ve updated our rankings with everything we’ve seen, even as the calendar reaches the quieter month of December. With what’s changed and come to light, do you agree with some of the changes on our rankings? Have we included the right teams or made the best possible choices about this Top 25?