I know that being ranked #1 in January means about as much in real terms as what Barbara Boxer puts on her hot dogs.  But we like it, don't we?  Being number one is a nice perk for the fans of any program, and it is in that spirit that I express this little piece of optimism which follows.

There is a lot more going for our hopes as Wildcat fans this season than we have lately appreciated -- at least that's been true of me.  We UK fans were overwhelmed by real grief after the South Carolina game, and a lot of the expression of that grief was voiced in the form of lamentation over our loss of the #1 ranking.   Most of us assume that we'll see our beloved 'Cats fall out of number 1 in monday's polls, so we dread it's forthcoming publication.  But I want all of you to take a moment to really think that over, and you may realize that the dread is premature.  We're actually in a good position to maintain the top ranking, as only two things have to happen for us to have a legitimate chance of finding ourselves still atop the polls this week. 

First, most obviously and most importantly, we have to give Vandy a real wedgie.  If we can truly dominate a good Vandy team it will show that we've bounced back and are for real.  Secondly, Kansas has to lose tonight.  Think that's not likely?  The Jayhawks are visiting a vicious and hungry Kansas State team on the road.  Now, I know that KU has owned KState over the last 25 years, even in Manhattan.  But this is NOT the same old KState that other Big 12 teams have wiped their feet on for so long.  Any team, and I truly do mean ANY team, that visits Manhattan this year is in for the fight of their lives.

Don't believe me?  Ask Texas.