Let's take a quick look at my early top 5 mid-major programs.

1) Gonzaga: I think Gonzaga will have the most success this year. Steven Gray is there to fill Matt Bouldin's shoes on the perimeter and their front line is stacked, led by Robert Sacre and Elias Harris.

2) Butler: The loss of Gordon Hayward will likely keep them from being title contenders again, but Shelvin Mack and Matt Howard will be enough to win the Horizon league once again.

3) Memphis: Will Barton gaining eligibility is huge, obviously, and his play, along with the rest of the heralded freshman class, will make Memphis a strong team in C-USA.

4) San Diego State: I really like the returning players they have with Kawhi Leonard and company. They should challenge for the title of what should be a competitive MWC.

5) BYU: I was tempted to push them out of the top 5 after losing Michael Lloyd and Jonathon Tavernari but the return of Jimmer Fredette is too much to overlook. Combine that with Darrington Hobson bolting New Mexico and Tre'von Willis' eligibility in question and I think BYU will be one of the top teams again in the MWC.

Thoughts, comments, suggestions? Thanks!