But even as Illinois (10-3, 2-1 Big Ten) was learning more about itself and pollsters were cool toward the Illini during their hit-or-miss run in proving-ground games, the data-based NCAA NET rankings were comparatively higher.

Iowa State (Prev. 3, 12-1): The Cyclones are the team to beat in the Big 12 after a strong W over Baylor. Duke (Prev. 4, 12-2): The Blue Devils have won eight in a row, Cooper Flagg has been as good as advertised and the win at SMU put the Mustangs in their place in the ACC.

Illinois was the week's biggest riser, jumping nine spots from No. 22 to No. 13 after sweeping a West Coast swing.