By: Pat Caputo

It has been eons since Big Ten basketball has been this strong. Here are three big story lines that are developing as conference play has started in earnest.

1. Can Michigan keep it up – The Wolverines are ranked second in the nation and rolling, but they face road games Sunday at Ohio State and Minnesota Thursday. Will it be: “Snap back to reality. Oh there goes gravity?” Or is Michigan the Real Deal Holyfield?

2. Minnesota is vastly underrated – A blowout win at Illinois? Are you kidding me? Tubby Time is gaining momentum. The Gophers are beyond dangerous.

3. Don’t sleep on Michigan State – Spartans’ coach Tom Izzo has an uncanny knack for getting his team ready to peak at just the right time. There’s no reason to believe this season will be any dfferent.