Season's second stage. (Back To Back).

The return from the holiday break means conference play is upon us. Here's how I think three of the major conferences will turn out:

ACC: Duke is the consensus choice to win the league. Despite a relatively young team, coach Mike Krzyzewski has a talented and explosive unit. In Chris Duhon, Daniel Ewing, Dahntay Jones and J.J. Redick, the perimeter is solid on offense and defense. Up front, the Blue Devils can hold their own. They will be challenged by a very balanced league, but they can defend on the perimeter and constantly can pressure opposing defenses with an attacking offense that uses the 3-point shot. Duke will wear down opponents on its way to another ACC title. Maryland, with its experience and backcourt of Steve Blake and Drew Nicholas, will present the biggest challenge.

If you're looking for a potential rabbit punch in the league, I like the size and depth of Wake Forest, despite just one senior in its top nine.

Big Ten: Both Illinois and Michigan State have a nice blend of depth, size, speed and a key upperclassman or two. Whereas Illinois and Michigan State often play eight to 10 players effectively and perhaps wear down some opponents, Indiana's Mike Davis has a tight rotation of seven to eight players. Indiana might have an edge in Tom Coverdale and Jeff Newton. ...