4. BYU (7-0) (Vs Major Conference Teams 0-0)
It's debatable as to whether or not this team is a mid-major, but for the purpose of this article I will say they are. After a 27-8 campaign last season the Cougars are off to a hot 7-0 start. BYU is led in scoring by senior sensation Lee Cummard.
Cummard is doing it all for the Cougars so far this year averaging 20.6 ppg 6.6 rpg, and 2.4 apg, respectively. BYU has gone untested so far this year as their schedule has been rather weak. However BYU has a great opportunity at another respectable mid major, Utah State (5-0).
We will find out if BYU is the real deal later on in the holiday season as they play No. 19 Arizona State and No. 17 Wake Forest. BYU will make the tournament, but we will have to wait and see how they play against some major teams later on in the season.
5. Rhode Island (6-2) (Vs Major Conference Teams 1-2)
Rhode Island is a new team on the scene in NCAA basketball this season. Flying under the radar with an impressive 21 win season a year ago the Rams have already made a name for themselves in 2008 with a close game against ACC opponent Duke. Taking it to the last seconds the Rams lost to No. 5 Duke by three points, but landed themselves in the Mid Major Top 10.
Rhode Island is led by sharp shooter and son of the head coach, Jimmy Baron who shares the same name as his father. This kid can flat out shoot it from deep. Averaging just over 18 per game this year.
Baron is joined by Keith Cothran and Kahiem Seawright who are also averaging double digits. The Rams tough schedule only gets easier from here on out as they begin play in the A-10 conference. Top heavy with Xavier, and possibly Dayton, you can look for Rhode Island to challenge for a conference championship. NCAA tournament destiny..TBD
6. Western Kentucky (4-2) (Vs Major Conference Opponents 2-0)
After a slow 1-2 start the Hilltoppers are back to playing good basketball. Their last three games have consisted of wins over Southern Illinois, No. 3 Louisville, and Georgia.
Western Kentucky is led in scoring by A.J. Slaughter who is averaging 17.5 points per game. After missing two games his presence has turned the team's season around. Western Kentucky's conference should allow them to finish with a strong record and another chance to wear the slippers.
7. Dayton Flyers (7-0) (Vs Major Conference Opponents 2-0)
The Dayton Flyers are off to a great start in their second consecutive season. Last year the Flyers floundered after early season recognition and failed to make the tournament. This year they have knocked off a solid No. 25 Marquette team and also has a win against Auburn.
The rest of Dayton's schedule has been pretty easy so far this year. The Dayton vs. Creighton matchup will determine which team will be in the mid major top 10 next week. Is Dayton for real? We might need the whole season to find out.
8. Butler Bulldogs (5-0) (Vs Major Conference Opponents 1-0)
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