http://kenpom.com/
I check kenpom regularly during the season and it’s just another indicator that we’re almost back in hoops season that the new rankings are released. Kenpom has Michigan slotted at #12 going into the season which is rather in line with the media polls. This also falls directly in line with Dan Hanner’s prediction (insider on ESPN), who was the same one predicting Michigan to finish outside of the top 40 last season as I recall.
Anyway, I will take this opportunity to encourage you all to look into getting a kenpom subscription before the year starts. It’s a great resource for hoops stats enthusiasts. As a teaser, KenPom is predicting an 18-10 (10-8) season right now.
Michigan at 12 is reasonable if you think McGary’s year-long stats accurately predict his impact. As far as I can tell, there’s no “but the guy went ham in the tourney” boost. I like Michigan’s position – up there, lots of attention, but not too much pressure.
The computers and pollsters are all pretty high on Iowa, but I wouldn’t be surprised if they disappoint. Northwestern and Illinois might be better than people think. Minny has pretty good guards but could go either way in a pretty big way.
I too like being in the top 10 but not the top 5. Still up there and respected, but nobody waiting for your to flop a la Kentucky or NC State last year. I think Illinois can be better than expected this year, Northwestern will be interesting to see how Chris Collins impacts the team. Also, can’t overlook that most of B1G play last season was sans Crawford for them.
Iowa is really a toss up. I don’t know enough about the team to accurately predict, but we will see as things develop.