Cincinnati, which was picked sixth in the Big 12 preseason poll — K-State was No. 8 — not only is ranked No. 17 in both major national polls, but also has a No. 19 NET rating, fifth best in the conference. The Big 12 boasts seven teams in the top 25 of the NET rankings.

In-state rivals hit the court as we continue our College Basketball odds series with a Kansas State-Kansas prediction and pick.

Cincinnati’s stellar defense will test Kansas. The Jayhawks must be aggressive from the opening tip. KU wants to score inside, and that may not be easy. In addition, KU must play its usual stellar defense and not be afraid to get physical. It’s not necessarily bad if the Jayhawks foul UC, as the Bearcats struggle at the line.

Kansas State basketball looks to end a five-game losing streak against Baylor. Here are three things to know, plus a prediction.

Kansas basketball hits the road for a midweek showdown against TCU on Wednesday night. The No. 12 Jayhawks (13-4, 4-2 Big 12) will face the Horned Frogs (10-7, 3-3 Big 12) at Schollmaier Arena in Fort Worth,