Their is a new Number 1 in College Basketball and it comes by way of the Louisville Cardinals. After the curse of the undefeated and Number 1 occurred over the past week, Louisville was the first team to win their game and therefore remain atop the standings. After a tough first half, because of star Point Guard Peyton Siva's foul trouble, Louisville came out with fire in the second half and ended up crushing the Huskies. Louisville has yet to defeat a very tough opponent as they have a loss to Duke. They have beaten Missouri but the Cardinals will be tested soon in their matchup against #6 Syracuse on Saturday.
Now the question can be asked, are the Cardinals a legitimate title contender? Many people would laugh at this question but it is my job to analyze this question. First, I will start with my answer, Yes. Why though? Louisville contains the best backcourt in the nation. Speed, scoring, and facilitation comes by way of Peyton Siva and Russ Smith (23 points last night). The great thing about my pre-season pick is that the Cardinals have the ability to defend the basket as well. Shot-blocker, Gorgui Dieng, and inside presences Wayne Blackshear/Chane Behanan, possess the ability to keep Louisville in games when Siva struggles. His erratic playing style forces him to cough up turnovers but teammate Russ Smith can carry the team when needed. I believe Louisville will lose 2 or 3 games in the Big East Conference play but will obtain a Number 1 seed on their road to the Title in March.
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