No wonder Kansas is hardly mentioned as a serious Big Dance contender after going a subpar 5-6 across the last eleven games. Inconsistencies on the perimeter, exemplified by second-leading scorer Zeke Mayo (14 ppg, but held to single-digit points in three of the past four games), has been part of the problem, as Bill Self has been forced to increasingly lean upon 7-2 Hunter Dickinson (22 ppg last three) for offense. KU has also had issues on the road, where it has lost its last five vs. the number on the Big 12 trail, and facing a high-flying Houston bunch that has led the nation in defensive efficiency much of the season looks a potential big concern for Bill Self tonight. Play Houston

In a January matchup, Kansas had a six-point lead in overtime and maintained a six-point advantage in double overtime with 20 seconds remaining. After a series of fluky plays, including a missed free throw by the Jayhawks and a poor inbounds pass, Houston secured a 92-86 victory. The Jayhawks have played the much tougher non-conference (No. 31 vs. No. 103) and overall schedules (No. 13 vs. No. 28). Kansas also has a height advantage (No. 77 vs. No. 235). Kansas shot only 22% from three-point range in their loss at home to Texas Tech. Positive regression is expected. The Jayhawks believe they can defeat this team, so I love taking the points in this spot.