NCAA Basketball: Houston, Arizona, Auburn rise in latest top 25 power rankings

22. Colorado State (15-3)

We have quickly learned this season that there are no easy roads in this Mountain West, and Colorado State certainly knows that. The Rams were a very impressive team in the nonconference before dropping their first two conference road games, albeit to solid Utah State and Boise State squads. Fortunately, the Rams were back on track at home this week, though it still wasn’t easy.

First off, the Rams survived their Tuesday test, winning 78-69 in overtime against Air Force. Colorado State sure got tested at home by a weaker Falcons squad, but Nique Clifford supplied 17 points and 6 rebounds while Joel Scott added 13 points and 7 rebounds in the win. Three days later was no easier, as the Rams came back in the second half for a 78-75 home win over UNLV. Clifford led the team again, this with 21 points and 7 rebounds, while star guard Isaiah Stevens contributed 18 points of his own.

Back in late November, the Rams began a stretch of four straight victories over power conference opponents, highlighted by a massive win against Creighton. It’s almost fitting that they’re having a harder time against their conference foes, albeit in what looks like an extremely productive season for the MWC. They’ll take their show back on the road next week to Nevada and Wyoming, hoping to avoid future disaster.