Historic Hot Starts: Michigan and Purdue Lead Men’s College Basketball

In the latest men’s college basketball rankings, Michigan and Purdue are making a serious statement. According to *The New York Times*, both teams have reached efficiency ratings that put them among the best of the past 15 years. The full breakdown is [here](https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6847718/2025/12/01/mens-college-basketball-top-25-michigan-purdue-uconn/). So, what’s actually making Michigan, Purdue, and a few others so tough this season?

Michigan’s Dominance in the Early Season

Michigan’s start has been wild. In just the first four weeks, the Wolverines have posted an adjusted efficiency margin of 35.16, the highest for any team this early since 2011-12.

They’ve landed at the top of every predictive model out there. Right now, they’re the team everyone’s chasing.

Impenetrable Defense

Defense is the big story for Michigan. When coach Dusty May rolls out his jumbo lineup—Aday Mara, Morez Johnson Jr., and Yaxel Lendeborg—the Wolverines give up just 0.687 points per possession.

This trio blocks shots at a 21.4 percent rate. The paint? Basically closed for business.

Opponents are hitting only 33.9 percent of their two-point shots against Michigan in half-court sets, per Synergy. That defense stood out against Gonzaga, a team that usually scores inside at will.

Michigan held Gonzaga to just one basket on five post-up tries. They completely shut down the Zags’ inside game.

Purdue’s Strong Start

Purdue isn’t far behind. Their adjusted efficiency margin sits at 32.54, which is the second-highest for this point in the season in the last 15 years.

The Boilermakers have held onto their No. 1 ranking, and it’s not just luck—it’s consistency.

Efficient Offense and Defense

Purdue’s balanced on both ends. They’re getting it done offensively and defensively, making them tough to rattle.

Their upcoming game against Iowa State feels like a real test. Purdue’s smooth efficiency will go head-to-head with Iowa State’s relentless defense.

Duke’s Potential

Duke’s right there in the mix with an adjusted efficiency margin of 32.05. Some folks question their schedule since they haven’t faced many top-15 teams yet, but the Blue Devils are showing flashes of something special.

Cameron Boozer’s Impact

Cameron Boozer has been a standout for Duke. The way he scores—using pivot moves and that wide, steady base—creates all kinds of headaches for defenders.

Duke’s got big games coming up against Florida and Michigan State. If they pull off wins, expect to see them climbing the rankings.

Other Notable Teams

Several other teams are making noise, each with their own style and strengths.

UConn’s Offensive Schemes

UConn’s offense is a bit of a spectacle. Coach Dan Hurley runs sets that look almost like a game of duck-duck-goose, with shooters like Solo Ball darting around to get open.

That movement has helped make UConn one of the best teams at scoring off screens.

Iowa State’s Defensive Aggression

Iowa State is second in defensive turnover rate. Coach T.J. Otzelberger gets his defenders playing like free safeties, always reading the passer’s eyes and jumping passing lanes.

This aggressive defense will get a real test against Purdue soon.