National Gophers buzz heading into the season

Wednesday's media poll had Minnesota listed at No. 7 in the Big Ten, a pretty standard ranking for the Gophers in most nationwide polls. But despite the consistent placement in the lower half of the conference, there is at least some buzz surrounding the Gophers heading into the start of the season.

Most of the chatter revolves around three topics:

1. Trevor Mbakwe: Recognized as a one of the league's best big men, the senior has gotten plenty of national attention. He was named to the John R. Wooden Award preseason top-50 list and Sporting News likened him to Charles Oakley and made him one of three players to watch in the Big Ten in its season preview. Other buzz:

• ESPN's Andy Katz quotes an opposing coach in the Big Ten saying this of Mbakwe: "He's a warrior. He's one of the best offensive rebounders that has been in this league since I've been around. He plays hard and physical."
• This Michigan blog names Mbakwe as the No. 2 big man in the conference, behind Ohio State's Jared Sullinger (they also name Ralph Sampson III No. 5 and Rodney Williams as a sleeper on the wings list.
• The Gophers may have one of the best starting frontcourts in the Big Ten according to this NBA draft blog.
• This nationally focused blog names Mbakwe as a breakout candidate .
• Brent Yarina from the Big Ten Network predicted Mbakwe would finish with a double-double in every game this season.

2. Andre Hollins: Minnesotans sure are excited about this highly touted, grinning freshman, but the noise extends beyond the land of lakes. Many nationally expect Hollins to at least make some waves as he starts his NCAA career. Some buzz:

• SLAM's Jon Jaques says he doesn't expect the Gophers to do well, but says Hollins could make an immediate impact .
• This national blog has Hollins picked for the Big Ten All-Freshman team .
• This fan blog picks Hollins as the Big Ten's newcomer .

3. The Underdog/Wildcard pick: For the most part, the Gophers are being picked low – usually 7 through 9 – in the Big Ten. However, some that have tuned in closely to the team see that there is potential if the front court stays dominant. There is potential if the freshmen look good. There is potential if Williams steps up as he hasn't yet. There is potential if all goes just right. Some buzz:

• Big production would be needed from Mbakwe and Ralph Sampson III, this national hoops blog acknowledges, but says if the Gophers get it, they could finish in the top half of the Big Ten and potentially earn a tournament bid.
• The opinion of the team on top matters: this Ohio State blog has kind words for coach Tubby Smith and says "Minnesota has an opportunity to catch a few teams by surprise and crawl their way back into the middle of the pack."