In this week's Power Rankings, Houston remains on top, followed closely by Iowa State. The next three are very tightly bunched - Kansas, Arizona, and Texas Tech. And that was before Arizona's half-court shot on Monday night (that will be reflected in next week's Power Rankings).

Houston took an unlikely path to victory in Allen Fieldhouse last weekend when the Cougars rallied from six points down in the final seconds of overtime, then beat Kansas in the second extra period. But the outcome itself was not unusual. Road teams are thriving in the Big 12 compared to prior years.

Houston has won 11 straight. It has the best defense in the country. It's why the Cougars are this week's new No. 1 in the Big 12 power rankings.

Houston picked up a two-game road sweep in Big 12 Conference play at a pair of the league’s more imposing venues. As a result, the Cougars maintain their hold on first place in the conference. Not to mention solidifying the top spot in the latest edition of the Big 12 power rankings.

Are we ready to put Houston in the elite tier of college basketball this season? Auburn and Duke have been staples at the top of our Power Rankings for several weeks, with Iowa State in the mix. And while Tennessee has faded,