Michigan State: The 'Why' Behind the Rank

Michigan State is a cohesive, clear-cut leader in Draymond Green and a good core mix. Keith Appling and Travis Trice offer different looks at point guard. Branden Dawson is a future star. Favorable schedule could springboard the Spartans into a lot of early conference wins.

Michigan State is for sure a No. 3 and could likely battle Wisconsin for the No. 2 (at least in my rankings).

Wisconsin: The 'Why' Behind the Rank

Jordan Taylor is a scorer, playmaker, defender and rebounded. The Badgers have guards who rebound and big centers and forwards who guard. Opponents will have extreme difficulty in defending. Those who leave center Jared Berggren alone on the perimeter will meet their demise. Sixth man Ben Brust and Josh Gasser are exceptional 3-point shooters.

Wisconsin deserves their #2.

Ohio State: The 'Why' Behind the Rank

I picked Ohio State to finish atop the Big 12 this year in college hoops. Here's why:

Jared Sullinger may be the best player in college basketball. If that isn't enough, Aaron Craft is a brilliant sophomore point guard and William Buford and Deshaun Thomas are reliable scorers.

Ohio State is the clear favorite!

Big 12 Hoops Race

Here are my picks for the Big 12 hoops race!

1. Ohio State

2. Wisconsin

3. Michigan State

4. Michigan

5. Illinois

6. Indiana

7. Northwestern

8.Purdue

9. Minnesota

10. Nebraska

11. Iowa

12. Penn State