Early report card on projected Elite 8 teams

We’re nearly a third of the way into the college basketball season, and with the conference battles set to begin in a few weeks, let’s do a quick review of the teams that many analysts and prognosticators picked to go to the Elite 8.

North Carolina – the number 1 ranked team in both major polls is unbeaten at 8-0 and is a good as advertised. Tyler Hansbrough is a monster, and the depth and athleticism of the Tar Heels make them a solid pick to win it all.

Georgetown – the Hoyas are 7-0 and appear ready to dominate the Big East. With Roy Hibbert and DaJuan Summers leading the way, the Hoyas will be a tough team to match up with in the tournament.

Kansas - the #3 ranked Jayhawks are 9-0 and have managed to keep their focus despite the legal issues of star guard Brandon Rush. The Jayhawks have five players averaging double figures in scoring which will serve them well when March rolls around.

Louisville – the Cardinals are 5-2 so far and were tripped up by Dayton at home last week. Louisville suspended their second leading scorer, Derrick Caracter, for violating team rules. Losing Caracter’s 13 points and 7 rebounds per contents will definitely hurt the Cardinals chances at reaching the Elite 8.

Memphis – the Tigers are 7-0 and ranked #2 in the country. Led by Derrick Rose and Chris Douglas-Roberts, Memphis is perhaps the most athletic team in the country. They have proven they can play in up-tempo games as well as half-court contests.

Oregon - the Ducks are a very quiet 7-1 this year and are ranked #16 in both polls. Not many people are talking about Oregon outside of the Pacific Northwest, but don’t be fooled – 5 Ducks are double digit scorers, led by guard Malik Hairston, and they can play with anybody in the country.

Tennessee – the fans on Rocky Top are thrilled with the Vols this year, as they have started out the season with an 8-1 record. Guards JaJuan Smith and Chris Lofton form one of the best backcourts in the country. If they can get through the brutal SEC East relatively unscathed, Tennessee could easily make a deep run in the NCAA tournament.

UCLA - freshman sensation Kevin Love has led the Bruins to an 8-1 record and a #8 ranking. The only hiccup in the Bruins’ season so far was a 2 point loss to #4/5 Texas at home. If Love can continue his stellar play, you can pencil in UCLA for a trip to the Elite 8.