TSN power poll

Sporting News, The, Dec 13, 2004

Key early issues edition

The TSN Power Poll is determined by TSN writers and editors.

, -- rise or fall in rankings

1. Illinois (6-0) 4 At this point, the Illini's biggest concern is trying to score extra Final Four tickets for that short drive to St. Louis.

2. Syracuse (7-0) Even

3. Oklahoma State (5-0) Even

4. Georgia Tech (4-0) 2

5. Kansas (4-0) -1 The Jayhawks need another big man to help Wayne Simien, who's constantly double-teamed inside. Until the team's rotation at center gets straightened out, that's not likely to change.

6. Duke (5-0) 2

7. North Carolina (6-1) 6

8. Connecticut (3-0) 2

9. Wake Forest (6-1) -8

10. Pittsburgh (5-0) 1 The Panthers still are trying to find an adequate replacement--or a platoon replacement--for departed SF Jaron Brown.

11. N.C. State (5-0) 4

12. Washington (4-1) -3

13. Kentucky (4-1) -6

14. Virginia (6-0) 9

15. Maryland (4-1) -1

16. Mississippi State (6-1) Even The Bulldogs have plenty of seniors, but the maturation of sophomore PG Gary Ervin is critical. His decision-making and execution must improve for the Bulldogs to reach their potential.

17. Louisville (4-1) 2

18. Alabama (6-1) 3

19. Texas (5-1) 3

20. Iowa (6-1) Even

21. Creighton (7-0) 3

22. Wisconsin (4-1) NR

23. Gonzaga (5-1) NR The Zags haven't had to worry about depth for several seasons, but they don't have the same luxury now. Their rotation includes eight players, and three are averaging at least 34 minutes.

24. George Washington (4-1) NR

25. Boston College (4-0) NR

* Records through last Saturday