 Why No. 18?: The Badgers aren't higher, even though they went to the Final Four, in part because of the suspensions to Maurice Linton and Travon Davis for the first eight games of the season. Taking Linton off the team hurts the Badgers' chances of having a more versatile offense. Davis gives the Badgers another point guard to spell Mike Kelley. The success of Dick Bennett's defense ensures that the Badgers will win games. They may survive a rugged non-conference slate. But by the time the Big Ten arrives, Wisconsin will still be one of the toughest outs in the country. They won't have an inflated record to be higher, but they'll be top-20 good in talent and system. The experience of going deep in the NCAA Tournament is also invaluable.
Will Climb If: The Badgers can get through games against Maryland, Xavier, Tennessee and Temple without Davis and Linton. If the Badgers go 3-1, maybe even 2-2, with this four then they'll get higher in the polls. Wisconsin was rewarded last season for its non-conference schedule and should be this season if it can get through the stretch. The Badgers need to produce more offensively. They were brutal in spurts last season, especially against Wake Forest in December and Michigan State in March. Getting more transition baskets is a must for the Badgers to move up.
Will Fall If: The Badgers collapse in November and December and have a hard time staying in the top five in the Big Ten once they are all eligible. If the Badgers can't generate points, enough to get into the 60s, then they'll be in serious trouble of staying in contention for a bid, let alone the top 25. Wisconsin can't afford to make another dramatic run for a bid down to the last weekend.
Bilas Breakdown | HTV's Take | Team Page
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