The Kansas Jayhawks are heating up at just the right time. Riding a five-game win streak, KU has climbed to No. 11 in the latest USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll, up from No. 14 a week ago. That surge is more than just a number-it’s a reflection of a team finding its rhythm as the Big 12 schedule intensifies.
At 16-5 overall and 6-2 in conference play, Kansas is starting to look more like the team many expected to see early in the season. Their recent win over BYU, now ranked No. 14, was a statement. Not just because of the opponent, but because of how KU handled adversity in that game-particularly the absence of freshman standout Darryn Peterson for much of the second half due to cramping.
The good news for Jayhawks fans: Peterson is expected to be available for Monday night’s road test against No. 13 Texas Tech.
And make no mistake, it will be a test. Lubbock has never been a friendly stop for visiting teams, and the Red Raiders are tough, especially on their home floor.
But Peterson’s presence-his shot-making, his energy, and his ability to create off the dribble-gives Kansas a major boost as they try to keep the win streak alive.
Looking ahead, the road doesn’t get any easier. The Big 12 is a gauntlet this season, and Kansas is about to run through the heart of it.
They’ve got matchups coming up against No. 1 Arizona (both home and away), No.
7 Iowa State (on the road), and No. 8 Houston (at home).
That’s a brutal stretch by any standard, but it’s also an opportunity-a chance for KU to prove it belongs in the national title conversation.
The Jayhawks already have a win over Iowa State under their belt, taking care of business at Allen Fieldhouse earlier this season. But the road trip to Ames will be a different beast altogether. Same goes for the Arizona series-splitting those games would be a win in itself, though this Kansas team has the tools to do more than just survive.
It all starts with staying healthy and continuing to build on the chemistry that’s been developing over the past few weeks. The pieces are there.
The depth is improving. And if Kansas can keep this momentum rolling, February could be the month that defines their season.
One thing’s certain: the Jayhawks are back in the mix, and the rest of the Big 12-and the country-should be paying attention.