Texas vs. North Carolina typically generates intrigue, especially this early in the season with both teams staked to winning records. Maybe it's the size of the Texas athletic department (one of 13 schools above $100 million) compared to the size of UNC's basketball tradition or the clash of their uniform colors, burnt orange to baby blue. Whatever the case, tonight's game looks to follow that vibe, even if the Longhorns aren't ranked in the top 25.

They do, however, have nine wins against just one loss, one and a half games better than North Carolina's 7-2 mark. But the SOS sign comes out early in college hoops (that's strength of schedule): Carolina has already beaten #5 Michigan State, #6 Louisville, and #18 Kentucky (all by at least five points), but lost inexplicably to Belmont (8-4) and UAB (8-2) -- with the UAB loss coming directly after the big Louisville upset. They also continue to play without last year's leading score, P.J. Hairston, who remains suspended indefinitely. Senior Leslie McDonald, also suspended for accepting illegal benefits from boosters, will make his season debut tonight, according to goheels.com. He averaged just over 7 ppg last season, with decent percentages from three and from the foul line, but connected on only 36 percent of his overall field goals.

Texas probably wouldn't have lost those games mainly because they've been playing and beating those types of teams all season. What they don't have yet is a big win. They'll get that chance tonight at 7:00 p.m. EST on ESPN and with their next game, three days later against Michigan State.

"I am excited to see where we are, I am excited to see us continue to grow and do what we have done up to this point," Texas coach Rick Barnes told ESPN. "When you talk about building resumes, this is where that comes in. This is a tough opponent, tough place to play, and then we come home and have a tough one."

As of about 1:00 today, the Tar Heels were getting 11 points, according to Vegas Insider. That could be enough for the Heels, given their propensity to play well in big games and the game taking place on their home court (though they did lose the Belmont game at home). If Texas isn't quite as big as their reputation or record, it could be an easy win for the home team. I'll hope my opening sentiments hold for both teams and Texas plays strong enough for at least the cover. Gut instinct has me leaning towards North Carolina (-11), but I haven't seen either team play enough this year to make that call with any sort of confidence.

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