I'll answer my own question.
Less (but not by much)
I didn't buy into the Ty as PG narrative, but I also didn't see PG by committee working this well (and it has its issues). I pegged Illini for top-25, outside the top 10. I've always been high on TSJ, not just as a leader, but I really like his game. I could go on and on about how he asserts himself in transition, jumps the passing lanes, hits the occasional deep 3 (and legitimately spreads the floor), and hits his frickin FTs. Great athlete --already has what I expect to be the best block of the year. Think we have many other solid pieces. But is the rest of roster, especially at the guard spots, next level/difference makers? Not so sure, especially when I'm watching the best teams.
I think this team will do better than last year's, but I'm expecting Purdue to win the conference and it won't be close. I like this group --easy team to root for. Just not seeing a top 4 seed yet based on my personal eye test. Next couple weeks are going to change minds one way or the other. Hopefully this post doesn't age well.
Less (but not by much)
I didn't buy into the Ty as PG narrative, but I also didn't see PG by committee working this well (and it has its issues). I pegged Illini for top-25, outside the top 10. I've always been high on TSJ, not just as a leader, but I really like his game. I could go on and on about how he asserts himself in transition, jumps the passing lanes, hits the occasional deep 3 (and legitimately spreads the floor), and hits his frickin FTs. Great athlete --already has what I expect to be the best block of the year. Think we have many other solid pieces. But is the rest of roster, especially at the guard spots, next level/difference makers? Not so sure, especially when I'm watching the best teams.
I think this team will do better than last year's, but I'm expecting Purdue to win the conference and it won't be close. I like this group --easy team to root for. Just not seeing a top 4 seed yet based on my personal eye test. Next couple weeks are going to change minds one way or the other. Hopefully this post doesn't age well.