NCAA Basketball: Duke, Memphis, Michigan State rise in latest top 25 power rankings

9. Marquette (11-4)

Nothing comes easy in the Big East this season and Marquette certainly understands that. Nearly two months ago, the Golden Eagles looked to be on top of the world, with wins over Illinois, UCLA, and Kansas, before a nail-biting loss to Purdue over in Maui. They’ve dropped a few more games since then, though still look like a top team in the nation.

This Saturday was unfortunately another step backwards against their tough conference, as the Golden Eagles traveled to New Jersey and came away empty-handed. Despite a strong comeback effort at the end, they fell 78-75 at Seton Hall. Oso Ighodaro led their charge with 22 points and 8 rebounds while David Joplin added 15 in what was their second loss already in conference play.

Marquette has had some fantastic performances this season but the offense hasn’t been operating at the same level since Big East play began a few weeks ago. Road losses at Providence and Seton Hall aren’t the end of the world, but this team is going to need to learn how to win away from Milwaukee, with the Fighting Illini their only true road win at this point. Fortunately they’re at home against Butler next week.