Alabama's defensive struggles are Missouri's gain this week. Plus, Wisconsin, Michigan State surge as Purdue, Memphis drop and Louisville returns.

Auburn reassumed its place as the No. 1 team in the updated Coaches Poll released Monday following a 94-85 victory over Alabama. The Tigers dropped to No. 2 last week in place of

In a state entrenched in football tradition, Nate Oats and Bruce Pearl have transformed the Tide and Tigers to the two best teams in college basketball.

The overwhelming majority of coaches who enter the profession will never be involved in a No. 1 vs. No. 2 matchup. But Bruce Pearl has now been in two such games at two different schools and won both of them despite being an underdog and on the road each time.

Auburn and Alabama top a talented Southeastern conference, each boasting 10-1 conference record. Today’s matchup will settle the No. 1 seed in the SEC. Auburn would retain the No. 1 spot with a win while Alabama would take over the top seed with a victory.