For two years running, champions did not play during the “Champions Classic.”  We mention this, only because the inflated rankings ahead of a nationally televised ESPN game, is almost laughable.  Last year, Michigan State came into the Champions Classic ranked 13th in the nation.  They finished week 18 of the AP rankings at season’s end outside of the top 25.  In fact, they only received one AP voter’s vote.  Yet, for tonight, it’s #1 versus #2.  And we should be happy that college basketball season has arrived!