It was really, really ugly if you are a Northwestern fan, but an incredibly powerful sign if you are a Baylor fan that the lofty #7 ranking might not be as ambitious as some originally thought.
Read More:
Showing posts with label Northwestern. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Northwestern. Show all posts
Baylor Makes Big Statement
This is a post link for the full game story on Yahoo.
It was really, really ugly if you are a Northwestern fan, but an incredibly powerful sign if you are a Baylor fan that the lofty #7 ranking might not be as ambitious as some originally thought.
Read More:
It was really, really ugly if you are a Northwestern fan, but an incredibly powerful sign if you are a Baylor fan that the lofty #7 ranking might not be as ambitious as some originally thought.
Read More:
Big Ten: Mid Season Conference Round Up
The Big Ten entered the season thought to be one of the nation's elite conferences, and they've done little to dispel the notion thus far. If anything, the recent stellar play of Penn State and the at least occasional displays of competence by Indiana, Michigan and Northwestern, make the Big Ten as deep top-to-bottom as any league in the country.
At the midpoint, it is safe to assume an absolute minimum of five NCAA Tourney bids, with a sixth being highly likely and a seventh being a remote, but unlikely possibility.
Here's where we stand so far:
LOCKS: Ohio State, Purdue, Michigan State, Illinois, Wisconsin
SHOULD BE IN: Minnesota
POSSIBLE, BUT UNLIKELY: Northwestern, Penn State
NO SHOT: Michigan. Indiana, Iowa
Ohio State is #1 in the country and shows no signs of slowing down. Tonight's visit from Purdue will be a nice test for the Buckeyes coming off their emotional win Saturday in Champagne. They have the inside/outside balance needed for a deep run to the Final Four and more. They won't run the table, and could even lose tonight to Purdue, but I'd be surprised if they drop more than three or four games all year. Expect the Buckeyes to be a #1 seed in March.
Purdue is an interesting case. People have focused so much on who they are missing (Robbie Hummel) they've overlooked two All-American candidates they do have in E'Twaun Moore and JuJuan Johnson. The senior inside/out combo is as good as any pair in the country and give Purdue the core to make a run at the Final Four. I've liked this team all season - and they are only getting better as their role players begin to get some confidence and court time. They could end up as high as a #1 seed with a nice run to win the Big Ten, but more likely settle in around the #3 line.
It's almost February, so that must mean it is time for Michigan State to start turning it on in preparation for March. Tom Izzo has perfected the "Final Four run from a 3 or 4 seed" act many times, and might just do it again this year. The Spartans certainly have the talent to be a top seed, but like Purdue, likely settle around the #3 line.
Illinois is another team with the personnel to make a deep run in March. Their record suggests I should have them slotted behind Minnesota and Wisconsin, but Illinois gets the "lock" nod due to who they have played and lost to. Losses to Texas, Missouri and Wisconsin away from home shouldn't drop the Illini too far in the committee's eyes. They'll still likely endure a handfull of losses, but should have a strong enough body of work to land safely in the 4/5 seed range.
Wisconsin strikes again. They don't have NBA talent loading up their roster like some of their Big Ten counterparts, but all Bo Ryan and his Badgers do is win win win no matter what. Currently 5-2 in conference, the Badgers are in position to finish second in arguably the top league in the country. Trips to Ohio State and Purdue still loom, but the Badgers propensity to hammer lesser opponents (including this weekend 32-point drubbing of Northwestern) serves them favorably for an 11 or 12 win season and as high as a #3 seed, but no certainly no worse than a #5 seed in March.
Minnesota is all but a lock, but their lack of marquee wins means they still need to hold up over the rigors of Big Ten play. Early neutral court wins over North Carolina and West Virginia help, but the real bulk of their Big Ten schedule is still to come. The 3-point loss at Ohio State is encouraging, as is the home win over Purdue. They only have four games left in conference against the "Top 5" so their home and homes with Northwestern and Indiana are vital to sweep. My call - Minnesota lands around a #6 seed.
What to make of Northwestern? They looked good in blowout wins over Indiana, Iowa and Michigan - as well as in tight three and four point losses against Michigan State. This is also the team that took a 32-point drubbing by Wisconsin and a 25-point loss at Illinois. Simply put? The Wildcats are just OK - not terrible, yet nowhere close to the class of the Big Ten's elite. That likely earns them a seventh place finish and yet another berth in the NIT.
Penn State is another team that is likely not making the Big Dance, but man are they giving teams fits in conference play. The are only 3-4 in league play, but an impressive 3-4 it is; they own wins over Michigan State and Illinois and two road losses to Ohio State by just three and Purdue on a last-second buzzer beater, 63-62. Those are their four most recent games. So - does that great play translate into wins over the bottom half of the conference? If it does, it isn't unreasonable to think Penn State could sneak up to 9-9, possibly even better in conference. It may not be enough to get them to the tourney in Talor Battle's senior year, but the Nittany Lions are sure going to make things interesting.
Indiana fans surely must be growing impatient. It's now year three of the Tom Crean Era, and there is little evidence of progress. At least Hoosier fans can take solace knowing their good friends in Lexington were in the exact same spot three years ago and their rebuilding took Coach Cal about 45 minutes and four phone calls... The Hoosiers are simply outclassed in Big Ten play. They lack the size, the scoring, the depth - basically everything needed to compete. Even the NIT is a stretch for IU. Consider Crean on the clock next season.
Michigan is a program that continues to perplex me. They have tradition, facilities, resources, a good coach; yet they continue to flounder on the edge of irrelevance. They gave Kansas a heck of a fight earlier this year, showing some signs of life, but at 1-6 in conference with trips to Ohio State, Michigan State, Illinois and Minnesota still remaining Michigan is looking a terrible conference season, and an overall sub-.500 season squarely in the face. If not for the relative failures of the two coaches who preceded him, I'd say Beilein has reason to be nervous... and actually still might.
If one were taking the "Big Ten" exactly at its name's value, Iowa would be the school you would forget to include. This once-proud basketball program continues to flounder at the bottom of the league with very little sign of digging itself up off the mat. The Hawkeyes are just 8-11 (1-6) and have losses to powerhouses like South Dakota State and Long Beach State on their resume. No postseason for these guys - this year - or anytime soon... Paging Dr. Tom Davis...Dr. Davis...
At the midpoint, it is safe to assume an absolute minimum of five NCAA Tourney bids, with a sixth being highly likely and a seventh being a remote, but unlikely possibility.
Here's where we stand so far:
SHOULD BE IN: Minnesota
POSSIBLE, BUT UNLIKELY: Northwestern, Penn State
NO SHOT: Michigan. Indiana, Iowa
Ohio State is #1 in the country and shows no signs of slowing down. Tonight's visit from Purdue will be a nice test for the Buckeyes coming off their emotional win Saturday in Champagne. They have the inside/outside balance needed for a deep run to the Final Four and more. They won't run the table, and could even lose tonight to Purdue, but I'd be surprised if they drop more than three or four games all year. Expect the Buckeyes to be a #1 seed in March.Purdue is an interesting case. People have focused so much on who they are missing (Robbie Hummel) they've overlooked two All-American candidates they do have in E'Twaun Moore and JuJuan Johnson. The senior inside/out combo is as good as any pair in the country and give Purdue the core to make a run at the Final Four. I've liked this team all season - and they are only getting better as their role players begin to get some confidence and court time. They could end up as high as a #1 seed with a nice run to win the Big Ten, but more likely settle in around the #3 line.
Illinois is another team with the personnel to make a deep run in March. Their record suggests I should have them slotted behind Minnesota and Wisconsin, but Illinois gets the "lock" nod due to who they have played and lost to. Losses to Texas, Missouri and Wisconsin away from home shouldn't drop the Illini too far in the committee's eyes. They'll still likely endure a handfull of losses, but should have a strong enough body of work to land safely in the 4/5 seed range.
Wisconsin strikes again. They don't have NBA talent loading up their roster like some of their Big Ten counterparts, but all Bo Ryan and his Badgers do is win win win no matter what. Currently 5-2 in conference, the Badgers are in position to finish second in arguably the top league in the country. Trips to Ohio State and Purdue still loom, but the Badgers propensity to hammer lesser opponents (including this weekend 32-point drubbing of Northwestern) serves them favorably for an 11 or 12 win season and as high as a #3 seed, but no certainly no worse than a #5 seed in March.
Minnesota is all but a lock, but their lack of marquee wins means they still need to hold up over the rigors of Big Ten play. Early neutral court wins over North Carolina and West Virginia help, but the real bulk of their Big Ten schedule is still to come. The 3-point loss at Ohio State is encouraging, as is the home win over Purdue. They only have four games left in conference against the "Top 5" so their home and homes with Northwestern and Indiana are vital to sweep. My call - Minnesota lands around a #6 seed.
What to make of Northwestern? They looked good in blowout wins over Indiana, Iowa and Michigan - as well as in tight three and four point losses against Michigan State. This is also the team that took a 32-point drubbing by Wisconsin and a 25-point loss at Illinois. Simply put? The Wildcats are just OK - not terrible, yet nowhere close to the class of the Big Ten's elite. That likely earns them a seventh place finish and yet another berth in the NIT.Penn State is another team that is likely not making the Big Dance, but man are they giving teams fits in conference play. The are only 3-4 in league play, but an impressive 3-4 it is; they own wins over Michigan State and Illinois and two road losses to Ohio State by just three and Purdue on a last-second buzzer beater, 63-62. Those are their four most recent games. So - does that great play translate into wins over the bottom half of the conference? If it does, it isn't unreasonable to think Penn State could sneak up to 9-9, possibly even better in conference. It may not be enough to get them to the tourney in Talor Battle's senior year, but the Nittany Lions are sure going to make things interesting.
Indiana fans surely must be growing impatient. It's now year three of the Tom Crean Era, and there is little evidence of progress. At least Hoosier fans can take solace knowing their good friends in Lexington were in the exact same spot three years ago and their rebuilding took Coach Cal about 45 minutes and four phone calls... The Hoosiers are simply outclassed in Big Ten play. They lack the size, the scoring, the depth - basically everything needed to compete. Even the NIT is a stretch for IU. Consider Crean on the clock next season.
Michigan is a program that continues to perplex me. They have tradition, facilities, resources, a good coach; yet they continue to flounder on the edge of irrelevance. They gave Kansas a heck of a fight earlier this year, showing some signs of life, but at 1-6 in conference with trips to Ohio State, Michigan State, Illinois and Minnesota still remaining Michigan is looking a terrible conference season, and an overall sub-.500 season squarely in the face. If not for the relative failures of the two coaches who preceded him, I'd say Beilein has reason to be nervous... and actually still might.
 |
| The pen is mightier than the team... |
Big Ten Looks to Start a New Trend in ACC Challenge
Last season the Big Ten laid to rest the seemingly eternal streak of ACC dominance. Winning last year's challenge was the first time the Big Ten had done so since the series inception more than a decade ago.
Last year's triumph may have been a minor upset, but in order for the ACC to get back on top it is going to take an upset of their own. For perhaps the first time in the Challenge era, the Big Ten is clearly superior.
Here's a quick breakdown of the matchups, along with some fearless prognostications:
Virginia @ Minnesota: Tubby's Gophers have been one of the pleasant surprises of the early season, winning their preseason tourney by downing North Carolina and West Virginia. They also handled solid mid-majors Wofford, Western Kentucky and Siena, all with relative ease. They should cruise at home against the Cavaliers.
Georgia Tech @ Northwestern: The Wildcats their first real test of the season. I like them over the Jackets in a close game.
Ohio State @ Florida State: The Buckeye's were #2 in our preseason poll, and remain the most legitimate challenger (along with Kansas) to the Blue Devils hopes to repeat. Florida State lacks the offensive punch to score with a very balanced Buckeye attack.
Michigan @ Clemson: This is a game the Tigers need to win if the ACC has any chance of pulling out the challenge. I think they will, but this one could be really ugly. Both teams are sloppy with the ball an inefficient offensively.
North Carolina @ Illinois: Illinois is one of the quietest good teams in the country. They dropped to #20 after losing an intense game to Texas. Look for the Illini to exploit Carolina's ballhandling and passing woes into easy buckets and an easy win.
WEDNESDAY:
Indiana @ Boston College: This is a huge opportunity for the Hoosiers to take the next step in their rebuilding journey and validate their early unbeaten creampuff-aided record. BC has played in more competitive games early, and that is an advantage, but I still like the Hoosiers to get an upset win on the road.
North Carolina State @ Wisconsin: The Badgers just do not lose in the Kohl Center. They won't tonight either. Give me Bucky in a win over better-than-advertised NC State.
Purdue @ Virginia Tech: VA Tech might be the second best team in the ACC (hence my 'Can Duke Run the Table' columns). Purdue is taking some flack for losing to Richmond the other day, but Richmond is a legit Top 20 team. To me, not as concerning a loss as it seemed on the surface. Despite the loss of Hummel, Purdue remains Top 10-Top 15 talented with JuJuan Johnson and E'Twaun Moore. I like the Boilermakers in the road, stiffling Malcoln Delaney and the Hokies. This is probably the second best game of the series, I wouldn't miss this one.
Maryland @ Penn State: This is why God created ESPN-U. So you and I could watch games like this while 99.9% of the nation could care less. Maryland is my sleeper pick in the ACC. I watched them frustrate Pitt for 40 minutes. Once they figure out who their primary ballhandler is going to be, the Terps could surprise some folks and make the tourney. Penn State is awful, but enjoy Talor Battle for one more season. The do-everything guard for the Nittany Lions is one of the most exciting players in the country. That said, I'll take the Terps on the road.
Michigan State @ Duke: This is the marquee matchup, and we'll devote a column to it on Wednesday. I won't give away my pick, but I'm sure you can guess....
Last year's triumph may have been a minor upset, but in order for the ACC to get back on top it is going to take an upset of their own. For perhaps the first time in the Challenge era, the Big Ten is clearly superior.
Here's a quick breakdown of the matchups, along with some fearless prognostications:
MONDAY:
Virginia @ Minnesota: Tubby's Gophers have been one of the pleasant surprises of the early season, winning their preseason tourney by downing North Carolina and West Virginia. They also handled solid mid-majors Wofford, Western Kentucky and Siena, all with relative ease. They should cruise at home against the Cavaliers.
TUESDAY:
Iowa @ Wake Forest: Both teams have been dreadful in the early going and look like cellar dwellars in their respective leagues. I'll take Wake, who I think is a little better than they have played, at home over the Hawkeyes.Georgia Tech @ Northwestern: The Wildcats their first real test of the season. I like them over the Jackets in a close game.
Ohio State @ Florida State: The Buckeye's were #2 in our preseason poll, and remain the most legitimate challenger (along with Kansas) to the Blue Devils hopes to repeat. Florida State lacks the offensive punch to score with a very balanced Buckeye attack.
Michigan @ Clemson: This is a game the Tigers need to win if the ACC has any chance of pulling out the challenge. I think they will, but this one could be really ugly. Both teams are sloppy with the ball an inefficient offensively.
North Carolina @ Illinois: Illinois is one of the quietest good teams in the country. They dropped to #20 after losing an intense game to Texas. Look for the Illini to exploit Carolina's ballhandling and passing woes into easy buckets and an easy win.
Indiana @ Boston College: This is a huge opportunity for the Hoosiers to take the next step in their rebuilding journey and validate their early unbeaten creampuff-aided record. BC has played in more competitive games early, and that is an advantage, but I still like the Hoosiers to get an upset win on the road.
North Carolina State @ Wisconsin: The Badgers just do not lose in the Kohl Center. They won't tonight either. Give me Bucky in a win over better-than-advertised NC State.
Purdue @ Virginia Tech: VA Tech might be the second best team in the ACC (hence my 'Can Duke Run the Table' columns). Purdue is taking some flack for losing to Richmond the other day, but Richmond is a legit Top 20 team. To me, not as concerning a loss as it seemed on the surface. Despite the loss of Hummel, Purdue remains Top 10-Top 15 talented with JuJuan Johnson and E'Twaun Moore. I like the Boilermakers in the road, stiffling Malcoln Delaney and the Hokies. This is probably the second best game of the series, I wouldn't miss this one.
Maryland @ Penn State: This is why God created ESPN-U. So you and I could watch games like this while 99.9% of the nation could care less. Maryland is my sleeper pick in the ACC. I watched them frustrate Pitt for 40 minutes. Once they figure out who their primary ballhandler is going to be, the Terps could surprise some folks and make the tourney. Penn State is awful, but enjoy Talor Battle for one more season. The do-everything guard for the Nittany Lions is one of the most exciting players in the country. That said, I'll take the Terps on the road.
Michigan State @ Duke: This is the marquee matchup, and we'll devote a column to it on Wednesday. I won't give away my pick, but I'm sure you can guess....
OVERALL: I have the Big Ten winning 7-4 on my fight card.
.
Tuesday's Quick Picks - February 2nd, 2010
It's not a huge slate of games today, but there are at least three worth tuning into. The Maniac, much like seemingly every team in the country not named Kansas, is having some trouble these days on the road. 'On the Road" meaning my incessant insistence on picking road favorites. The numbers are bearing that it just doesn't seem to be the way to go this season... that said, am I smart enough to heed my own researched advice?? (pause for crowd laughter)
On to tonight's fearless picks.
Did you hear John Wall and John Calipari aren't getting along?!? I have a sly feeling that couples counseling can probably be averted and we can simply chalk it up to an 18-year old kid who has never been coached or disciplined pouting after his first EVER real loss. Something tells me this one was only a story because some writers needed a story. Oh, on a related note, this just in too, Dwight Freeney hurt his ankle and Peyton Manning is really good. See? It's been a slow sports week.
Tonight the Kentucky Wildcats take on a ranked opponent sans the cumbersome burden of the nation's #1 ranking. Ole Miss is fatally devoid of an inside presence, which is especially troublsome considering UK has DeMarcus Cousins and Pat Patterson waiting for them at Rupp. However, what Mississippi does have is one of the nation's better backcourts. They are actually very similar to Kentucky and that both feautre a pair of lightning quick, offensive-minded, smallish guards who will dominate the ball. (Not to blaspheme the Great Wall, but the two backcourts' stats are very similar)
I think this presents Wall and Bledsoe with an intersting look they haven't really faced yet this year. I am curious how they respond, and think the results will be a little more even that Vegas anticipates. I feel good that Kentucky wins at home, their presence on the boards creating second shots will be the difference. However, I think Chris Warren and Terrico White give them a heckuva game for 35+ minutes. Give me Ole Miss and the +12.
In ESPN's nightcap, we get Big Ten-undefeated Michigan State staking their perfect record at a place no one wins; the Kohl Center. Michigan State is much more talented than Wisconsin. They are as hot as any team in the country and are a legit #1 seed contender. And they are getting two points!
Have I learned my lesson? Stop picking road teams playing in places where the home team ALWAYS wins...
Nope. Gimme Sparty and the two in a win that ends Wisconsin's hopes for Big Ten title, and severely hampers the hopes of resurgent pre-season fave Purdue.
For weeks I have been foreshadowing the late Northwestern bid-clinching surge... time to put my money where my mouth is tonight when they host Michigan. And I gladly will. Give me John Shurna and the Cats laying only one point in their home gym.
I'm going to keep breaking my own new rule and take one more road favorite tonight. Kansas State is heading to Nebraska tonight in what has all the makings of an enormous let down game following the gut-wrenching OT loss to rival Kansas. I don't think Frank Martin is going to let that happen though. Gimme K-State laying four in a good win; not a sexy win, but the kind of win Top 4 seeds don't miss on.
On to tonight's fearless picks.
Did you hear John Wall and John Calipari aren't getting along?!? I have a sly feeling that couples counseling can probably be averted and we can simply chalk it up to an 18-year old kid who has never been coached or disciplined pouting after his first EVER real loss. Something tells me this one was only a story because some writers needed a story. Oh, on a related note, this just in too, Dwight Freeney hurt his ankle and Peyton Manning is really good. See? It's been a slow sports week.
Tonight the Kentucky Wildcats take on a ranked opponent sans the cumbersome burden of the nation's #1 ranking. Ole Miss is fatally devoid of an inside presence, which is especially troublsome considering UK has DeMarcus Cousins and Pat Patterson waiting for them at Rupp. However, what Mississippi does have is one of the nation's better backcourts. They are actually very similar to Kentucky and that both feautre a pair of lightning quick, offensive-minded, smallish guards who will dominate the ball. (Not to blaspheme the Great Wall, but the two backcourts' stats are very similar)
I think this presents Wall and Bledsoe with an intersting look they haven't really faced yet this year. I am curious how they respond, and think the results will be a little more even that Vegas anticipates. I feel good that Kentucky wins at home, their presence on the boards creating second shots will be the difference. However, I think Chris Warren and Terrico White give them a heckuva game for 35+ minutes. Give me Ole Miss and the +12.
In ESPN's nightcap, we get Big Ten-undefeated Michigan State staking their perfect record at a place no one wins; the Kohl Center. Michigan State is much more talented than Wisconsin. They are as hot as any team in the country and are a legit #1 seed contender. And they are getting two points!
Have I learned my lesson? Stop picking road teams playing in places where the home team ALWAYS wins...
Nope. Gimme Sparty and the two in a win that ends Wisconsin's hopes for Big Ten title, and severely hampers the hopes of resurgent pre-season fave Purdue.
For weeks I have been foreshadowing the late Northwestern bid-clinching surge... time to put my money where my mouth is tonight when they host Michigan. And I gladly will. Give me John Shurna and the Cats laying only one point in their home gym.
I'm going to keep breaking my own new rule and take one more road favorite tonight. Kansas State is heading to Nebraska tonight in what has all the makings of an enormous let down game following the gut-wrenching OT loss to rival Kansas. I don't think Frank Martin is going to let that happen though. Gimme K-State laying four in a good win; not a sexy win, but the kind of win Top 4 seeds don't miss on.
MANIAC'S PICKS:
Ole Miss +12
Michigan State +2
Northwestern -1
Kansas State -4
Want More? Have something to Say?
Read, Rant, Agree, Disagree...Curse at Us (nicely please)
Do it all @ MarchManiacs.com
Read, Rant, Agree, Disagree...Curse at Us (nicely please)
Do it all @ MarchManiacs.com
Now onto Business
Three weeks ago, your beloved Maniac accuratly charted the course for Northwestern's tourney aspirations. If you missed it, here it is. Well, three weeks later they emerged from their murderous stretch 1-4, and surprisingly (or not surprisingly) nearly every media outlet has forgotten all about them. Not one site even has them on the "bubble radar."
So - if the Wildcats are going to do the never-before-done, NOW is time to grab it.
They start their imminently winnable homestretch tomorrow night with a visit from Michigan. I don't think it is hyperbole to say the loser of that game is aiming for the NIT. Then they have a visit from Indiana and a trip to Iowa. Should the Wildcats emerge 3-0 (as they should) they will sit at 17-7 and in decent shape.
We'll keep you posted, but the Maniac's Take is still that Northwestern scoots into the tourney.
So - if the Wildcats are going to do the never-before-done, NOW is time to grab it.
They start their imminently winnable homestretch tomorrow night with a visit from Michigan. I don't think it is hyperbole to say the loser of that game is aiming for the NIT. Then they have a visit from Indiana and a trip to Iowa. Should the Wildcats emerge 3-0 (as they should) they will sit at 17-7 and in decent shape.
We'll keep you posted, but the Maniac's Take is still that Northwestern scoots into the tourney.
Want More? Have something to Say?
Read, Rant, Agree, Disagree...Curse at Us (nicely please)
Do it all @ MarchManiacs.com
Read, Rant, Agree, Disagree...Curse at Us (nicely please)
Do it all @ MarchManiacs.com
Moving and Shaking
Today is going to be filled with movers and shakers. Movers; as into prime tourney position; and Shakers, teams whose footing is going to be shaky with a loss to say the least.
Here is a quick rundown of the biggest games of a packed Saturday.
Louisville @ West Virginia: The Cards are 13-7, and a loss today would drop them to 13-8. With nary a great win on their resume and looming blowout losses to Charlotte and Western Carolina, anything shy of a huge step-up game today leaves them in dire straights. For the Mountaineers, a number one seed isn't out of the question, but they can't drop any more home games. Especially to teams like the 'Ville.
Marquette @ Connecticut: The Warriors are the textbook definition of a tough-luck ballclub, having lost three games in conference to Top 25 team in the final seconds. Since the NCAA committee rarely looks at margin of loss, the biggest stat that matters right now is 12-8. Connecticut is only one game better at 13-7, but has better non-conference wins (and losses) and a little more name cache (not that it is supposed to matter). Interesting fact, Marquette is 0-5 on the road this season. If that streak runs to six, it's time to kick some dirt on their grave. However, should they win, the middle of the BEast gets intersting with both teams in a six or seven team scrum for likely two, possibly three bids. It's a BIG game in Storrs (but let's hope the Huskie fans don't storm the court if they win...seriously...stay off the floor.)
Duke @ Georgetown: Wow! How often do we get an Elite Eight level non-conference game this late in the year? Not very often, so enjoy it. The winner puts a HUGE chip in their pile and stays on track for a #1 or #2 seed. Duke loses less with a loss since its a true road game. If the Hoyas lose, it has them trending towards a 4/5 seed. Neither team is crippled with a loss, but still a fantastic game worth tuning in to.
Oklahoma St. @ Missouri: A HUGE battle for 4th place in the Big 12 (and with K-State at Kansas tonight, perhaps even third place...). Both teams have been pleasantly surprising this year, easily outpacing Oklahoma and Texas Tech. OK State is 16-4, Mizzou stands at 15-5, and they are tied in conference play. This game gives the winner a huge leg up in getting to the Dance.
Baylor @ Texas: Put Baylor in the category with the two teams above; pleasantly surprising. Texas is still a beast - don't let the recent slide fool you. They are still in line for a possible #1 seed...unless Baylor clips them on the road. A win like this one would likely have Scott Drew's Bears on the right side of the bubble come March.
Vanderbilt @ Kentucky: Forget the subplot lines; Kentucky rebounding from their first loss, Vandy trying to stay hot, etc. This game is for the lead in the SEC East. If Vandy nips the Cats, they would open up a two game conference lead and have already beaten Florida, Kentucky and South Carolina on the road. Doesn't that sound like the resume of a Top 2 seed?? Not saying ANY of that will happen, but today's game is bigger than it looks on paper (and in the AP polls).
Harvard @ Cornell: Forget the hyperbole for all the games I scrawled above about getting in or not making the tournament. The most important game of the day is happening on the campus of the Cornell Red. The Ivy League is the only league that refuses to play a conference tournament, meaning the regular season winner gets the league's tourney bid. I have read a few columns that suggested the Red would earn an at-large bid should they falter to the Crimson. Don't believe that for a second! Sentimentality aside, their signature "win" is a close loss to Kansas. If that's what you are looking for, give Charlie Weiss and extension at Notre Dame. This game is do-or-die, and probably the best game in the country tomorrow. Of course, unless you live on campus at Cornell, I don't think you'll be able to see it...just check back here for the coverage...
Northwestern @ Michigan State: Many people on TV and radio suggested the Wildcats need this game to have any chance at the tourney (not true - as my loyal readers know) BUT if they can repeat last year's surprising win at Sparty it does put a HUGE chip in their pile for earning their first ever NCAA bid. That said, don't dispair when Sparty hammers them.
Kansas @ Kansas State: The Maniac was one of many who praised the KSU students for staying OFF the court after beating then-number one Texas. Drop now #1 Kansas? Have at it guys, have at it. And while you are at it, dodge the subsequent let down game and you have a legit shot at winning the Big 12 and earning a #2 seed. For KU, a win here puts them back atop the polls and has them trending towards the #1 overall seed in the tournament.
Want More? Have something to Say?
Read, Rant, Agree, Disagree...Curse at Us (nicely please)
Do it all @ MarchManiacs.com
Here is a quick rundown of the biggest games of a packed Saturday.
Louisville @ West Virginia: The Cards are 13-7, and a loss today would drop them to 13-8. With nary a great win on their resume and looming blowout losses to Charlotte and Western Carolina, anything shy of a huge step-up game today leaves them in dire straights. For the Mountaineers, a number one seed isn't out of the question, but they can't drop any more home games. Especially to teams like the 'Ville.
Marquette @ Connecticut: The Warriors are the textbook definition of a tough-luck ballclub, having lost three games in conference to Top 25 team in the final seconds. Since the NCAA committee rarely looks at margin of loss, the biggest stat that matters right now is 12-8. Connecticut is only one game better at 13-7, but has better non-conference wins (and losses) and a little more name cache (not that it is supposed to matter). Interesting fact, Marquette is 0-5 on the road this season. If that streak runs to six, it's time to kick some dirt on their grave. However, should they win, the middle of the BEast gets intersting with both teams in a six or seven team scrum for likely two, possibly three bids. It's a BIG game in Storrs (but let's hope the Huskie fans don't storm the court if they win...seriously...stay off the floor.)
Duke @ Georgetown: Wow! How often do we get an Elite Eight level non-conference game this late in the year? Not very often, so enjoy it. The winner puts a HUGE chip in their pile and stays on track for a #1 or #2 seed. Duke loses less with a loss since its a true road game. If the Hoyas lose, it has them trending towards a 4/5 seed. Neither team is crippled with a loss, but still a fantastic game worth tuning in to.
Oklahoma St. @ Missouri: A HUGE battle for 4th place in the Big 12 (and with K-State at Kansas tonight, perhaps even third place...). Both teams have been pleasantly surprising this year, easily outpacing Oklahoma and Texas Tech. OK State is 16-4, Mizzou stands at 15-5, and they are tied in conference play. This game gives the winner a huge leg up in getting to the Dance.
Baylor @ Texas: Put Baylor in the category with the two teams above; pleasantly surprising. Texas is still a beast - don't let the recent slide fool you. They are still in line for a possible #1 seed...unless Baylor clips them on the road. A win like this one would likely have Scott Drew's Bears on the right side of the bubble come March.
Vanderbilt @ Kentucky: Forget the subplot lines; Kentucky rebounding from their first loss, Vandy trying to stay hot, etc. This game is for the lead in the SEC East. If Vandy nips the Cats, they would open up a two game conference lead and have already beaten Florida, Kentucky and South Carolina on the road. Doesn't that sound like the resume of a Top 2 seed?? Not saying ANY of that will happen, but today's game is bigger than it looks on paper (and in the AP polls).
Harvard @ Cornell: Forget the hyperbole for all the games I scrawled above about getting in or not making the tournament. The most important game of the day is happening on the campus of the Cornell Red. The Ivy League is the only league that refuses to play a conference tournament, meaning the regular season winner gets the league's tourney bid. I have read a few columns that suggested the Red would earn an at-large bid should they falter to the Crimson. Don't believe that for a second! Sentimentality aside, their signature "win" is a close loss to Kansas. If that's what you are looking for, give Charlie Weiss and extension at Notre Dame. This game is do-or-die, and probably the best game in the country tomorrow. Of course, unless you live on campus at Cornell, I don't think you'll be able to see it...just check back here for the coverage...
Northwestern @ Michigan State: Many people on TV and radio suggested the Wildcats need this game to have any chance at the tourney (not true - as my loyal readers know) BUT if they can repeat last year's surprising win at Sparty it does put a HUGE chip in their pile for earning their first ever NCAA bid. That said, don't dispair when Sparty hammers them.
Kansas @ Kansas State: The Maniac was one of many who praised the KSU students for staying OFF the court after beating then-number one Texas. Drop now #1 Kansas? Have at it guys, have at it. And while you are at it, dodge the subsequent let down game and you have a legit shot at winning the Big 12 and earning a #2 seed. For KU, a win here puts them back atop the polls and has them trending towards the #1 overall seed in the tournament.
Want More? Have something to Say?
Read, Rant, Agree, Disagree...Curse at Us (nicely please)
Do it all @ MarchManiacs.com
Tuesday's Quick Picks - January 19th, 2010
We have a nice bevy of quality games tonight. Tennessee, America's new darling team, faces a tricky road trip trap game in Tuscaloosa. The Tide have given Purdue and Vandy fits in their gym and also beaten Michigan. I'm making no official pick on this one, but it is worth a watch as Tennessee is creeping into legitimate #1 seed discussions.
Another fantastic conference game is taking place in Atlanta tonight. I was blown away by the explosive quickness and leaping ability of Gani Lawal, and even more impressed with his strength watching him manhandle Carolina's vaunted interior. It will be a blast watching him and Clemson's Booker bang all game. This is another game I wouldn't dare touch in Vegas, but I would wager you are watching two of the three best teams in the ACC face off tonight.
Ok, now for same games I will put my name on:
George Mason, like Creighton and Utah, had miserable pre-conference seasons but still seem capable of spoiling some things once conference play starts. Hofstra is a tough place to win, and they have been solid in CAA play, but I like the Patriots and the four and a half tonight.
Evan Turner is my National Player of the Year (still), and many readers will be surprised to see where Ohio State lands in tomorrow's Bracketeering. That said, laying 12 is a lot to a good Northwestern team, fresh off their win over Purdue. Ohio State wins, but I'll take NW and the 12.
Oklahoma is 2-1 in conference play, and from a distance seems to have steadied the once-promising ship. From a distance. This team takes terrible shots and looks like a playground team at times. The win over Mizzou is a good one, but I'll still lay the seven and take Texas A&M at home.
Surely Purdue can't lose another game in a row, right? That logic burnt me this weekend at Northwestern, but I'm sticking to my guns tonight when they travel to Champaigne. I still think the Illini are a bit overrated and a bubble team by the time the season winds down. If Purdue drops THIS one, it is time to push the panic button in West Lafayette.
In my final pick, let me start by saying Northern Iowa is really good. In my estimation, they are a tourney lock, and though we've had them higher than the polls all year (who finally ranked the Panthers), deserve their spot in Bracketeering. However, there is nothing tougher than knocking off a familiar, talented conference rival in their barn. The Panthers are going to try to do just that tonight at Wichita State. I like the Shockers laying two, in a good win not only for them, but also for the MVC's hopes of earning more than one bid.
MANIAC'S PICKS:
Northwestern +12
Wichita St. -2
Texas A&M -7
George Mason +4.5
Purdue -4Want More? Have something to Say?
Read, Rant, Agree, Disagree...Curse at Us (nicely please)
Do it all @ MarchManiacs.com
Read, Rant, Agree, Disagree...Curse at Us (nicely please)
Do it all @ MarchManiacs.com
Hold!! Steady!! Northwestern is almost through the woods...
Northwestern plays their third game in their seven game guantlet that was supposed to vanquish their season and their NCAA aspirations. Take a look at this seven game stretch:
The first three have passed with a 2-1 record: a win @ Michigan, loss to Wisconsin, and a huge winover Purdue. I said before the season if they weathered the storm at 3-4 they'd dance. Here's the final four, starting with tonight's gem at Ohio State.
| Tue, Jan 19 | at (21) Ohio St. | 7:00 pm | ||||
| Sat, Jan 23 | Illinois | 8:00 pm | ||||
| Tue, Jan 26 | at Minnesota | 9:00 pm | ||||
| Sat, Jan 30 | at (6) Michigan St. |
.Any win out of these four will certainly have to be earned, but after beating Purdue on Saturday, it doesn't seem unreasonable that they beat the Illini at home, or even steal one at Minnesota.
Let's just assume they get their one win during the aforementioned stretch. That would bring the Wildcats to 14-7, (3-6). Certainly some work to do to make the tourney, but let's look a little deeper into the schedule. They would own quality wins over Purdue, Butler, Notre Dame, Iowa State and NC State, plus whichever of the four above grants them their win.
Their remaining schedule, ten games, features only one ranked opponent (at Wisconsin, a likely loss). The other nine comprise of home and homes with Indiana, Penn State and Iowa; the leagues three worst teams, and no other road games, only visits from Michigan, Minnesota, and Chicago State.
Do you see any reason they don't finish 8-2, 7-3 at worst? That would get Northwestern to 22-9 or 21-10, with the schedule they played and the relative strength of the Big Ten, it would certainly be enough to earn them a bid this season.
My point is this; there is a good chance Northwestern is going to hit the skids over the next two weeks, and most "pundits" will write them off. Don't. College Hoops, like most sports, is all about schedule. As long as the Wildcats can keep a few losses in perspective (and something tells me those kids and coaches probably can), the road ahead is clear and bright for the school's first EVER NCAA tourney appearance.
Want More? Have something to Say?
Read, Rant, Agree, Disagree...Curse at Us (nicely please)
Do it all @ MarchManiacs.com
Read, Rant, Agree, Disagree...Curse at Us (nicely please)
Do it all @ MarchManiacs.com
Welcome to 2010 Baby
New Year. New Decade. And an incredible slate of college hoops to start it off right. This weekend will give hoops fans an opportunity to most of the nation's best teams (except Texas, who did it last week) get tested.
The game of the day features more than just great hoops. It features the greatest intensifier of all; good old fashioned hate. Rick Pitino visits his old stompin' grounds of hallowed Rupp Arena tomorrow in a position his Cards haven't been in for several years; trying to spring the upset on the heavily favored 'Cats. To add even a little more spice to the day, Calipari was recently the target of some rather pointed criticism by Bobby Knight, while Rick Pitino's offseason read like a John Grisham novel. In fact, it prompted one of the best shirts I've ever seen; sported by a Card fan it read simply "at least our coach only cheats OFF the court." Twisted, but inspired to say the least...
Yes Rick, all eyes on you indeed...
Gotta love the passion down in the Bluegrass. Kentucky is favored by 8, and despite the margin it will be the best test of tournament-style intensity the Cats have faced this year. Carolina and UCONN were great wins, but the volume and magnitude of this game is a great introduction to the passion of March for freshman Bledsoe, Cousins and Wall. Should the Cats survive the Cards and a Jan 12th trip to Gainesville, expect the "undefeated" talk to really ratchet up a notch...
Kansas plays their first real game of the year and gets a chance to finally shut The Maniac up about their soft road thus far. The Jayhawks travel to Philly to face red-hot Temple (5:30 EST) and their tempo-controlling style. The 'Hawks have more talent, but how will they handle their first true test outside of the Phogg? If the Owls can pull one of the first legit "upsets" of this young season (sidenote: Saw a headline on a major sports site, claiming "Bearcats STUN #10 UConn at the buzzer" Holy hyperbole Batman!) they can start looking at a Top 10 ranking and begin thinking Top 4 seed in March...
UConn and Syracuse have quality ballgames, though it might constitute an "off game" by brutal Big East standards. Both play at home, hosting Notre Dame and Pitt respectivly. Meanwhile Villanova takes a tricky trip to Marquette, who will be trying to regroup after gagging one up in West Virginia earler this week. Every day is a good day in the Big East. Don't be surprised if one, or all, of these games is closer than expected.
UAB has an interesting trip to Arkansas Saturday. Should the Hogs beat them, the Blazers will have dropped back-to-backers to UVA and Arkansas; two of the bottom teams in the BCS conferences. That wouldn't bode particularly well for Conference USA, especially after Houston lost to Texas-San Antonio tonight at home.
Big Ten play continues as well after an already-eventful start when Michigan State heads to Northwestern. Should Northwestern fall, they can kiss their brief time in the Top 25 goodbye...and also might begin to worry about their tourney prospects with their schedule not relenting anytime soon (and an 0-2 Big Ten start).
Tomorrow also features a real bevy of late, quality, non-conference tilts. Baylor at South Carolina is a nice matchup of bubble-caliber teams from good, multi-bid leagues. Gonzaga at Illinois is yet another stiff test for the Zags. They looked great last night hammering Oklahoma, but will they have enough gas in the tank against an Illini squad that can ill-afford another setback?
Oklahoma State takes a daring trip to Rhode Island tomorrow evening. Kudos to the Cowboys for playing a game like this against a smaller-name, very solid A-10 team. The A-10 has quite a day lined up with some Big Six foes. Charlotte will be hosting ACC Georgia Tech to round out the trifecta. It will be interesting to see how all three handle the opportunity.
I,m not sure if any cable outlet in America will be providing the 4pm game between William & Mary and Hofstra, but at this point I feel obligated to keep you updated on the Tribe. They are seeking to follow up their Maryland road win with another tough, albeit less glamorous, road win. This is a classic trap game, with Hofstra not expected to be among the CAA elite, but the kind of game you need to win if you want to be a serious at-large contender. By the way, not sure it means much right now (and of course it will drop as conference play lowers their strength of schedule) but W&M is 6th in the RPI as the calendar flips to 2010. Just thought you'd like to know.
Home of the nation's #6 team?? It's pretty early to look at RPI's...but still worth taking notice
The game of the day features more than just great hoops. It features the greatest intensifier of all; good old fashioned hate. Rick Pitino visits his old stompin' grounds of hallowed Rupp Arena tomorrow in a position his Cards haven't been in for several years; trying to spring the upset on the heavily favored 'Cats. To add even a little more spice to the day, Calipari was recently the target of some rather pointed criticism by Bobby Knight, while Rick Pitino's offseason read like a John Grisham novel. In fact, it prompted one of the best shirts I've ever seen; sported by a Card fan it read simply "at least our coach only cheats OFF the court." Twisted, but inspired to say the least...
Yes Rick, all eyes on you indeed...Gotta love the passion down in the Bluegrass. Kentucky is favored by 8, and despite the margin it will be the best test of tournament-style intensity the Cats have faced this year. Carolina and UCONN were great wins, but the volume and magnitude of this game is a great introduction to the passion of March for freshman Bledsoe, Cousins and Wall. Should the Cats survive the Cards and a Jan 12th trip to Gainesville, expect the "undefeated" talk to really ratchet up a notch...
Kansas plays their first real game of the year and gets a chance to finally shut The Maniac up about their soft road thus far. The Jayhawks travel to Philly to face red-hot Temple (5:30 EST) and their tempo-controlling style. The 'Hawks have more talent, but how will they handle their first true test outside of the Phogg? If the Owls can pull one of the first legit "upsets" of this young season (sidenote: Saw a headline on a major sports site, claiming "Bearcats STUN #10 UConn at the buzzer" Holy hyperbole Batman!) they can start looking at a Top 10 ranking and begin thinking Top 4 seed in March...
UConn and Syracuse have quality ballgames, though it might constitute an "off game" by brutal Big East standards. Both play at home, hosting Notre Dame and Pitt respectivly. Meanwhile Villanova takes a tricky trip to Marquette, who will be trying to regroup after gagging one up in West Virginia earler this week. Every day is a good day in the Big East. Don't be surprised if one, or all, of these games is closer than expected.
UAB has an interesting trip to Arkansas Saturday. Should the Hogs beat them, the Blazers will have dropped back-to-backers to UVA and Arkansas; two of the bottom teams in the BCS conferences. That wouldn't bode particularly well for Conference USA, especially after Houston lost to Texas-San Antonio tonight at home.
Big Ten play continues as well after an already-eventful start when Michigan State heads to Northwestern. Should Northwestern fall, they can kiss their brief time in the Top 25 goodbye...and also might begin to worry about their tourney prospects with their schedule not relenting anytime soon (and an 0-2 Big Ten start).
Tomorrow also features a real bevy of late, quality, non-conference tilts. Baylor at South Carolina is a nice matchup of bubble-caliber teams from good, multi-bid leagues. Gonzaga at Illinois is yet another stiff test for the Zags. They looked great last night hammering Oklahoma, but will they have enough gas in the tank against an Illini squad that can ill-afford another setback?
Oklahoma State takes a daring trip to Rhode Island tomorrow evening. Kudos to the Cowboys for playing a game like this against a smaller-name, very solid A-10 team. The A-10 has quite a day lined up with some Big Six foes. Charlotte will be hosting ACC Georgia Tech to round out the trifecta. It will be interesting to see how all three handle the opportunity.
I,m not sure if any cable outlet in America will be providing the 4pm game between William & Mary and Hofstra, but at this point I feel obligated to keep you updated on the Tribe. They are seeking to follow up their Maryland road win with another tough, albeit less glamorous, road win. This is a classic trap game, with Hofstra not expected to be among the CAA elite, but the kind of game you need to win if you want to be a serious at-large contender. By the way, not sure it means much right now (and of course it will drop as conference play lowers their strength of schedule) but W&M is 6th in the RPI as the calendar flips to 2010. Just thought you'd like to know.
Home of the nation's #6 team?? It's pretty early to look at RPI's...but still worth taking noticeWant More? Have something to Say?
Read, Rant, Agree, Disagree...Curse at Us (nicely please)
Do it all @ MarchManiacs.com
Read, Rant, Agree, Disagree...Curse at Us (nicely please)
Do it all @ MarchManiacs.com
New Year's Conference Resolutions: Big Ten
Here's the first of ten conference installments of some New Year's Resolutions and Prognostications. As always, your dissension is welcomed...
BIG TEN:
The Big Ten had all the makings of the best conference in the country heading into the season. Legit Final Four contenders? Purdue & Michigan State. National Player of the Year candidate? Evan Turner of Ohio State more than fit the bill. Tons of tourney caliber teams? Illinois, Michigan, Ohio State & Minnesota all were ranked preseason, with Wisconsin entering shortly after beating Duke early. Penn State was fresh off their NIT championship and Northwestern was entertaining dreams of their first ever NCAA tourney appearance. Heck, optimism was even high down in Bloomington with the rebuilding Hoosiers.
So what happened?
Michigan State got routed by North Carolina, Texas and lost to middling Florida. Ohio State lost Evan Turner to a broken back (amazing as it sounds, he will likely be back this season), Minnesota has struggled on the court and off, Michigan has been a disaster and Illinois has been disappointing. Penn State may not even be good enough to get back to the NIT to defend their crown and Indiana will need another year of rebuilding before being relevant.
In short, the Big Ten's shortfalls continue to glare compared to the bright lights of the Big East, ACC and Big 12 for yet another year.
Here's a quick look at the outlook for March for each team:
The Good:
Purdue looks fantastic, and a legit contender to get to Indy. I can't see them any lower than a #2 or #3 seed come March, and I wouldn't bet against a #1 (the win over WVU in the hip pocket). They have good veteran leadership and much like Florida 2006-07, a fantastic understanding of their individuals roles within the team construct.
I'd never bet against Tom Izzo and Michigan State in March. They do it every year, and have more than enough talent to get back to yet another Final Four.
If Ohio State gets back a healthy Even Turner they can be a real sleeper. I thought they were a legit third contender to win the Big Ten before the injury, and are of course a completely different team without him. Unfortunately Turner might return a little too late to salvage a decent seed.
I like Wisconsin's chances getting back to the dance as well. Every year Wisconsin is supposed to be down. Every year Bo Ryan's Badgers defend on the court, defend their home court, and defend their NCAA consecutive appearance streak. It's going to happen again this year.
The Unknown:
Tubby has had a tumultuous off season with his Minnesota Gophers and a rough November. Consecutive losses to Portland, Texas A&M and Miami dropped them off the national radar and left them with only a quality win over Butler for the resume. They are 10-3 and healthy and poised to make a run. I think Tubby's Gophers get it going and finish a solid 5th.
I'm not sure what to make of Illinois. My gut feeling is they are on the outside looking in come March. They've lost to Bradley, a bad Georgia team and a terrible Utah club. Those are going to be tough losses to overcome without ten wins in conference. The opening win over Northwestern helps, but I think they come up short.
Speaking of Northwestern, the Wildcats made their first appearance in the Top 25...and promptly followed it up with a loss to the Illini. Sentiment has me pulling for the Wildcats. Logic tells me they come up just a bit short...again. Check out the upcoming schedule: @ Mighigan, Wisconsin, Purdue, @Ohio State, Illinois, @Minnesota, @Michigan State. Wow. Win even three of these and we'll talk tourney. Find me three games they will be favored in on that slate...
Penn State is a major disappointment to me. The Nittany Lions and Talor Battle just haven't conjured up the magic this year. Early losses to Tulane and NC Wilmington put a ton of pressure on them to go over .500 in conference. It ain't happenin'
Michigan remains the biggest enigma. They are easily tourney-talented. Then the lose their opener to Indiana. Not a way to statr if you have serious aspirations in March. They are 6-6 with a bad loss to Utah and questionable losses to Alabama and Indiana. That leaves a lot of work to do in Ann Arbor. And fast.
The BAD:
Indiana is at least worth watching this year. They play well at home and will likely pick up a handful of conference wins this year. The loss of Maurice Creek hurts, and it is tough to see this young Hoosier team winning many on the road. After all, surprising wins over Pitt and Michigan aside, this is a team that lost to Boston U, George Mason and Loyola (Md). No postseason this year, but the future is bright in Bloomington.
Um, not so much in Iowa. The Hawkeyes are terrible. They've lost to Texas-San Antonio, Iowa State, Northern Iowa, Duquesne...and they are going to lose to every single team in the Big Ten at least once.
Final Score:
Purdue, Michigan State are Top 4 seeds. Ohio State gets Turner back in time to get in, Wisconsin and Minnesota earn bids.
Michigan and Illinois spend a rocky few weeks on each side of the bubble. I think the Wolverines get it together just in time to slip in as the 6th Big Ten team while Illinois joins Northwestern in NIT.
Penn State, Indiana and Iowa - make early March tee times.
BIG TEN:
The Big Ten had all the makings of the best conference in the country heading into the season. Legit Final Four contenders? Purdue & Michigan State. National Player of the Year candidate? Evan Turner of Ohio State more than fit the bill. Tons of tourney caliber teams? Illinois, Michigan, Ohio State & Minnesota all were ranked preseason, with Wisconsin entering shortly after beating Duke early. Penn State was fresh off their NIT championship and Northwestern was entertaining dreams of their first ever NCAA tourney appearance. Heck, optimism was even high down in Bloomington with the rebuilding Hoosiers.
So what happened?
Michigan State got routed by North Carolina, Texas and lost to middling Florida. Ohio State lost Evan Turner to a broken back (amazing as it sounds, he will likely be back this season), Minnesota has struggled on the court and off, Michigan has been a disaster and Illinois has been disappointing. Penn State may not even be good enough to get back to the NIT to defend their crown and Indiana will need another year of rebuilding before being relevant.
In short, the Big Ten's shortfalls continue to glare compared to the bright lights of the Big East, ACC and Big 12 for yet another year.
Here's a quick look at the outlook for March for each team:
The Good:
Purdue looks fantastic, and a legit contender to get to Indy. I can't see them any lower than a #2 or #3 seed come March, and I wouldn't bet against a #1 (the win over WVU in the hip pocket). They have good veteran leadership and much like Florida 2006-07, a fantastic understanding of their individuals roles within the team construct.
I'd never bet against Tom Izzo and Michigan State in March. They do it every year, and have more than enough talent to get back to yet another Final Four.
If Ohio State gets back a healthy Even Turner they can be a real sleeper. I thought they were a legit third contender to win the Big Ten before the injury, and are of course a completely different team without him. Unfortunately Turner might return a little too late to salvage a decent seed.
I like Wisconsin's chances getting back to the dance as well. Every year Wisconsin is supposed to be down. Every year Bo Ryan's Badgers defend on the court, defend their home court, and defend their NCAA consecutive appearance streak. It's going to happen again this year.
The Unknown:
Tubby has had a tumultuous off season with his Minnesota Gophers and a rough November. Consecutive losses to Portland, Texas A&M and Miami dropped them off the national radar and left them with only a quality win over Butler for the resume. They are 10-3 and healthy and poised to make a run. I think Tubby's Gophers get it going and finish a solid 5th.
I'm not sure what to make of Illinois. My gut feeling is they are on the outside looking in come March. They've lost to Bradley, a bad Georgia team and a terrible Utah club. Those are going to be tough losses to overcome without ten wins in conference. The opening win over Northwestern helps, but I think they come up short.
Speaking of Northwestern, the Wildcats made their first appearance in the Top 25...and promptly followed it up with a loss to the Illini. Sentiment has me pulling for the Wildcats. Logic tells me they come up just a bit short...again. Check out the upcoming schedule: @ Mighigan, Wisconsin, Purdue, @Ohio State, Illinois, @Minnesota, @Michigan State. Wow. Win even three of these and we'll talk tourney. Find me three games they will be favored in on that slate...
Penn State is a major disappointment to me. The Nittany Lions and Talor Battle just haven't conjured up the magic this year. Early losses to Tulane and NC Wilmington put a ton of pressure on them to go over .500 in conference. It ain't happenin'
Michigan remains the biggest enigma. They are easily tourney-talented. Then the lose their opener to Indiana. Not a way to statr if you have serious aspirations in March. They are 6-6 with a bad loss to Utah and questionable losses to Alabama and Indiana. That leaves a lot of work to do in Ann Arbor. And fast.
The BAD:
Indiana is at least worth watching this year. They play well at home and will likely pick up a handful of conference wins this year. The loss of Maurice Creek hurts, and it is tough to see this young Hoosier team winning many on the road. After all, surprising wins over Pitt and Michigan aside, this is a team that lost to Boston U, George Mason and Loyola (Md). No postseason this year, but the future is bright in Bloomington.
Um, not so much in Iowa. The Hawkeyes are terrible. They've lost to Texas-San Antonio, Iowa State, Northern Iowa, Duquesne...and they are going to lose to every single team in the Big Ten at least once.
Final Score:
Purdue, Michigan State are Top 4 seeds. Ohio State gets Turner back in time to get in, Wisconsin and Minnesota earn bids.
Michigan and Illinois spend a rocky few weeks on each side of the bubble. I think the Wolverines get it together just in time to slip in as the 6th Big Ten team while Illinois joins Northwestern in NIT.
Penn State, Indiana and Iowa - make early March tee times.
Want More? Have something to Say?
Read, Rant, Agree, Disagree...Curse at Us (nicely please)
Do it all @ MarchManiacs.com
Read, Rant, Agree, Disagree...Curse at Us (nicely please)
Do it all @ MarchManiacs.com
Wednesday's Highlights
There were a couple interesting games last night, and a few resume building wins. Here's a quick sweep on a few you might have missed.
NIGHT IN REVIEW:
UAB validated it's 8-1 record with an exclamation point win over former C-USA rival Cincinnati. The Maniac took a pretty big swipe across C-USA's bow earlier this week, but readily tips his cap to the Blazers' Wednesday night effort. The 64-47 win places them solidly in at-large consideration with a second place conference finish. It is an especialy big win when considering their other "big" wins were Wisconsin-Milwaukee and Georgia. With only chances against Butler (quality), Virgina and Arkansas (not so much...) remaining before conference play this win will be enormous when the Blazers are thrown up on the big board.
For the Bearcats, it is a disappointing response following a tough double-OT loss to crosstown rival Xavier on Sunday night. For Bearcat fans, there has to be some trepidation following another tourney miss-season that began very similarly to this one. I think the Bearcats are still an NCAA Tourney team, especially as Stevenson blossoms, but things need to get on track quickly. There final two non-conference games are minor tuneups, but the BEast begins soon and appears to be nearly as tough as last year.
Louisville stopped their steep slide with a hammering win over Oral Roberts. Granted, they weren't exactly tacking UNLV 1990, but the 94-57 win is a good sign Pitino's Cards realize they can't look past anyone this season any longer...
Ole Miss continued their daring ways, erasing a ten point deficit in the final five minutes to force OT and earn a 91-81 win over UTEP. The Maniac was also critical of UTEP's early light schedule, but admits to being impressed with them in defeat. Derrick Caracter will add an inside presence that few in C-USA will be able to match.
Don't look now, but the Kevin Coble-less Northwestern Wildcats are putting themselves in fine position to earn the school's first ever NCAA Tourney invite. They are 9-1, with wins over Notre Dame, Iowa State, and NC State. Their lone loss is against a top 15 Butler team that will likely be a top-4 seed come March. If they win their final two non-conference games (Saturday's Stanford game is a tricky one) they can go 8-10 in the loaded Big Ten and get some consideration. 9-9 would make them a near lock.
How about the hammering South Carolina laid on Richmond last night? The Spiders had looked good early this season and felt like a potential sleeper in the A-10. South Carolina, led by Devin Downey in what feels like his twenty second year of eligibilty, are going to have a great opportunity to contend for an at-large bid in the loaded SEC East. The good thing about sharing the East with Kentucky, Tennessee, Florida, and Vandy is that all five will get eight opportunities for quality wins.
For Richmond, all is not lost. They still have quality wins over Mississippi State, Old Dominion and Missouri in their hip pocket and their three losses to William & Mary, VCU and the Gamecocks should all be Top 100, if not Top 50 RPI losses in March. It does however make this weekends trip to Gainesville an interesting litmus test of the Spiders' legitimacy.
Finally Oklahoma State rebounded from their humbling loss to Tulsa with a nice 71-70 win over Stanford. The Cardinal have now lost to Kentucky in OT, and Oklahoma State by 1. So someone explain to be the 83-81 loss to Oral Roberts? Regardless, on their good days the Cardinal appear to be strong enough to challenge for third in the Pac 10. And, yes, that is meant more as an insult to the beleaguered Pac-10.
Not too much going on in college hoops tonight. Enjoy the Colts going for 14-0, and a serious, somber RIP to Chris Henry.
NIGHT IN REVIEW:
UAB validated it's 8-1 record with an exclamation point win over former C-USA rival Cincinnati. The Maniac took a pretty big swipe across C-USA's bow earlier this week, but readily tips his cap to the Blazers' Wednesday night effort. The 64-47 win places them solidly in at-large consideration with a second place conference finish. It is an especialy big win when considering their other "big" wins were Wisconsin-Milwaukee and Georgia. With only chances against Butler (quality), Virgina and Arkansas (not so much...) remaining before conference play this win will be enormous when the Blazers are thrown up on the big board.
For the Bearcats, it is a disappointing response following a tough double-OT loss to crosstown rival Xavier on Sunday night. For Bearcat fans, there has to be some trepidation following another tourney miss-season that began very similarly to this one. I think the Bearcats are still an NCAA Tourney team, especially as Stevenson blossoms, but things need to get on track quickly. There final two non-conference games are minor tuneups, but the BEast begins soon and appears to be nearly as tough as last year.
Louisville stopped their steep slide with a hammering win over Oral Roberts. Granted, they weren't exactly tacking UNLV 1990, but the 94-57 win is a good sign Pitino's Cards realize they can't look past anyone this season any longer...
Ole Miss continued their daring ways, erasing a ten point deficit in the final five minutes to force OT and earn a 91-81 win over UTEP. The Maniac was also critical of UTEP's early light schedule, but admits to being impressed with them in defeat. Derrick Caracter will add an inside presence that few in C-USA will be able to match.
Don't look now, but the Kevin Coble-less Northwestern Wildcats are putting themselves in fine position to earn the school's first ever NCAA Tourney invite. They are 9-1, with wins over Notre Dame, Iowa State, and NC State. Their lone loss is against a top 15 Butler team that will likely be a top-4 seed come March. If they win their final two non-conference games (Saturday's Stanford game is a tricky one) they can go 8-10 in the loaded Big Ten and get some consideration. 9-9 would make them a near lock.
How about the hammering South Carolina laid on Richmond last night? The Spiders had looked good early this season and felt like a potential sleeper in the A-10. South Carolina, led by Devin Downey in what feels like his twenty second year of eligibilty, are going to have a great opportunity to contend for an at-large bid in the loaded SEC East. The good thing about sharing the East with Kentucky, Tennessee, Florida, and Vandy is that all five will get eight opportunities for quality wins.
For Richmond, all is not lost. They still have quality wins over Mississippi State, Old Dominion and Missouri in their hip pocket and their three losses to William & Mary, VCU and the Gamecocks should all be Top 100, if not Top 50 RPI losses in March. It does however make this weekends trip to Gainesville an interesting litmus test of the Spiders' legitimacy.
Finally Oklahoma State rebounded from their humbling loss to Tulsa with a nice 71-70 win over Stanford. The Cardinal have now lost to Kentucky in OT, and Oklahoma State by 1. So someone explain to be the 83-81 loss to Oral Roberts? Regardless, on their good days the Cardinal appear to be strong enough to challenge for third in the Pac 10. And, yes, that is meant more as an insult to the beleaguered Pac-10.
Not too much going on in college hoops tonight. Enjoy the Colts going for 14-0, and a serious, somber RIP to Chris Henry.
Want More? Have something to Say?
Read, Rant, Agree, Disagree...Curse at Us (nicely please)
Do it all @ MarchManiacs.com
Read, Rant, Agree, Disagree...Curse at Us (nicely please)
Do it all @ MarchManiacs.com
Wednesday's Fearless Picks
After a 3-2-1 start to the season (though the Maniac contends that Sherron Collins' extended absence made for a do-over...) we're back for some more bankable predictions.
GAME OF THE NIGHT:
Butler -5 @ Northwestern: The Maniac loves Northwestern. I'd love nothing more than to see the only BCS conference school to never appear in the Big Dance end that streak. However Kevin Coble's season ending injury is way to much to overcome in a loaded Big Ten, and way to much to overcome in a virtual season opener against a talented, experienced, and unlike many top teams who fumbled this week; comfortable playing together.
I think this is a lock. Lay the points, take the Bulldogs big.
Toledo +22 @ Cincinnati - The Cats will contend for a NCAA berth in the less-than-balanced BEast. However there is still a lot of feeling out to do between big man Yancy Gates and incoming frosh sensation Lance Stevenson. Some of that will be evident on the court tonight.
Cornell -3 @ UMASS - Cornell is fresh off an "upset" win over Alabama. UMass got beat by 18 at UCF. Both games are more telling than many opening season tilts. The Red can play and the Minute Men are still in the 15 year post-Calipari probation malaise.
Western Carolina @ Texas -24 - The Longhorns are the best team in the country and the Maniac's preseason #1. Not sure how or why this line is this close, it feels like a 34-37 pointer to me...
Season Record: 3-2-1
GAME OF THE NIGHT:
Butler -5 @ Northwestern: The Maniac loves Northwestern. I'd love nothing more than to see the only BCS conference school to never appear in the Big Dance end that streak. However Kevin Coble's season ending injury is way to much to overcome in a loaded Big Ten, and way to much to overcome in a virtual season opener against a talented, experienced, and unlike many top teams who fumbled this week; comfortable playing together.
I think this is a lock. Lay the points, take the Bulldogs big.
Toledo +22 @ Cincinnati - The Cats will contend for a NCAA berth in the less-than-balanced BEast. However there is still a lot of feeling out to do between big man Yancy Gates and incoming frosh sensation Lance Stevenson. Some of that will be evident on the court tonight.
Cornell -3 @ UMASS - Cornell is fresh off an "upset" win over Alabama. UMass got beat by 18 at UCF. Both games are more telling than many opening season tilts. The Red can play and the Minute Men are still in the 15 year post-Calipari probation malaise.
Western Carolina @ Texas -24 - The Longhorns are the best team in the country and the Maniac's preseason #1. Not sure how or why this line is this close, it feels like a 34-37 pointer to me...
Season Record: 3-2-1
Want More? Have something to Say?
Read, Rant, Agree, Disagree...Curse at Us (nicely please)
Do it all @ MarchManiacs.com
Read, Rant, Agree, Disagree...Curse at Us (nicely please)
Do it all @ MarchManiacs.com
Last Chance for a Pair of Cats
A pair of Wildcats begin their long, improbable journeys today with much different perspectives.
Northwestern opens the Big Ten tourney today with a bubble game extraordinaire. Their own bubble chances are probably overly optimistic if the word "bubble" is involved. They are a true long long shot. However, this is a team that went 8-10 in the deep Big Ten, and boasts wins over all three of the league's top clubs. Today's foe, Minnesota, has played their way from "lock" to "bubble" and a loss today to Northwestern would likely relabel them "disappointed NIT participants."
Meanwhile in Atlanta a different bunch of Cats will be scratching for their lives. When Kentucky takes the floor today against Mississippi, similarly opening their conference's tournament, much more will be at stake. While every Northwestern win feels like a joyous leap into the improbable heights of tourney contention, every UK loss is a similar leap into unfathomable depths of despair.
With an early exit the Big Blue will be headed to the NIT for certain. Even with a deep run, anything short of taking the SEC crown might leave them short of the NCAA field of 65 for the first time in 18 years. And leave Dizzy on a short coaching leash with a tenuous job, at best.
Both Cats are on their ninth life...but the feel of that last gasp couldn't be more different.
Northwestern opens the Big Ten tourney today with a bubble game extraordinaire. Their own bubble chances are probably overly optimistic if the word "bubble" is involved. They are a true long long shot. However, this is a team that went 8-10 in the deep Big Ten, and boasts wins over all three of the league's top clubs. Today's foe, Minnesota, has played their way from "lock" to "bubble" and a loss today to Northwestern would likely relabel them "disappointed NIT participants."
Meanwhile in Atlanta a different bunch of Cats will be scratching for their lives. When Kentucky takes the floor today against Mississippi, similarly opening their conference's tournament, much more will be at stake. While every Northwestern win feels like a joyous leap into the improbable heights of tourney contention, every UK loss is a similar leap into unfathomable depths of despair.
With an early exit the Big Blue will be headed to the NIT for certain. Even with a deep run, anything short of taking the SEC crown might leave them short of the NCAA field of 65 for the first time in 18 years. And leave Dizzy on a short coaching leash with a tenuous job, at best.
Both Cats are on their ninth life...but the feel of that last gasp couldn't be more different.
Want More? Have something to Say?
Read, Rant, Agree, Disagree...Curse at Us (nicely please)
Do it all @ MarchManiacs.com
Read, Rant, Agree, Disagree...Curse at Us (nicely please)
Do it all @ MarchManiacs.com
Room for One More? Northwestern shoves their way onto the bubble
It has been much written that five Big Ten teams are on the bubble, battling for likely three or four spots. Well, add one more team to the bubble mix. Northwestern stole a 64-61win at Purdue tonight to add to their impressive body count.
The win pulls Northwestern to 17-11 (8-9) with 6 wins over Top 50 teams (actually 4 against Top 25 teams, including a 20+'er over Florida State), and ROAD wins at Michigan State and Purdue. If they can get a win Saturday over bubble-mate Ohio State, the Wildcats make a very compelling case for a Dance card...
Can Kevin Coble shoot the Wildcats into their first EVER NCAA tourney??
The win pulls Northwestern to 17-11 (8-9) with 6 wins over Top 50 teams (actually 4 against Top 25 teams, including a 20+'er over Florida State), and ROAD wins at Michigan State and Purdue. If they can get a win Saturday over bubble-mate Ohio State, the Wildcats make a very compelling case for a Dance card...
Can Kevin Coble shoot the Wildcats into their first EVER NCAA tourney??Want More? Have something to Say?
Read, Rant, Agree, Disagree...Curse at Us (nicely please)
Do it all @ MarchManiacs.com
Read, Rant, Agree, Disagree...Curse at Us (nicely please)
Do it all @ MarchManiacs.com
Wednesday's Highlights
Oklahoma looks to secure a share of the Big 12 title, while Missouri looks to salvage some respect after the savage beating laid on them by Sherron Collins, Cole Alderich and the Jayhawks. For Mizzou a good showing keeps them on the 4-line on Selection Sunday; a loss puts them into a big jumbled mess with 20 other teams bouncing between the 4 & 7 slots
Maniac's Pick: Oklahoma and Blake Griffin handle their business tonight.
West Virginia is projected as a #6 in most major website brackets; a win tonight over 0-16 DePaul should be a gimme... however, as the Mountaineers wrap up with a visit from Louisville, they better grab the win tonight to ensure a winning Big East record (and NCAA tourney bid).
Maniac's Pick: WVU locks up their tourney spot tonight, and the Blue Demons move inches from being the BEast's first winless team at season's end.
Marquette travels to Pitt looking to avoid their third consecutive loss. For the record, don't blame their woes on the loss of Dominic James. This losing streak has been coming all season, as the Maniac warned you. Assuming Pitt holds their home court tonight, Marquette would have to win the finale Saturday against Syracuse to avoid free-falling into the NCAA tournament (and dropping out of the Top 4 seed lines.)
Maniac's Pick: Pitt by 9
Purdue is playing for seeding at this point. Michigan State wrapped up the regular season conference crown squeeking past Indiana last night in Assembly Hall. Northwestern is NIT-bound, but has been a tricky opponent all season long. The Wildcats have already beaten Florida State, Michigan State, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Ohio State. It is still a crazy long shot, but an upset over Purdue and completing the season sweep over Ohio State Saturday leaves the door cracked for a miracle run in the Big Ten tourney and the FIRST EVER bid for Northwestern. EVER.
Maniac's Pick: Sorry Wildcats, a healthy Hummel and the Boilers handle their business at home, Purdue by 7.
GAME OF THE NIGHT:
Wisconsin at Minnesota is a virtual elimination game, but not for the team you would have thought it was four weeks ago. The Badgers have put their six-game losing streak behind them and appear to be pretty safely in the Big Dance. Tubby's Badgers have a valuable chip in the non-conference win over L'Ville, but really need a win tonight to feel secure. A loss tonight would drop them to 8-9 in Big Ten, and 4-8 in their last 12 games.
Maniac's Pick: Tubby rallies the troops and saves a slipping season with a big home win. Minnesota by 5.
Maniac's Pick: Oklahoma and Blake Griffin handle their business tonight.
West Virginia is projected as a #6 in most major website brackets; a win tonight over 0-16 DePaul should be a gimme... however, as the Mountaineers wrap up with a visit from Louisville, they better grab the win tonight to ensure a winning Big East record (and NCAA tourney bid).
Maniac's Pick: WVU locks up their tourney spot tonight, and the Blue Demons move inches from being the BEast's first winless team at season's end.
Marquette travels to Pitt looking to avoid their third consecutive loss. For the record, don't blame their woes on the loss of Dominic James. This losing streak has been coming all season, as the Maniac warned you. Assuming Pitt holds their home court tonight, Marquette would have to win the finale Saturday against Syracuse to avoid free-falling into the NCAA tournament (and dropping out of the Top 4 seed lines.)
Maniac's Pick: Pitt by 9
Purdue is playing for seeding at this point. Michigan State wrapped up the regular season conference crown squeeking past Indiana last night in Assembly Hall. Northwestern is NIT-bound, but has been a tricky opponent all season long. The Wildcats have already beaten Florida State, Michigan State, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Ohio State. It is still a crazy long shot, but an upset over Purdue and completing the season sweep over Ohio State Saturday leaves the door cracked for a miracle run in the Big Ten tourney and the FIRST EVER bid for Northwestern. EVER.
Maniac's Pick: Sorry Wildcats, a healthy Hummel and the Boilers handle their business at home, Purdue by 7.
GAME OF THE NIGHT:
Wisconsin at Minnesota is a virtual elimination game, but not for the team you would have thought it was four weeks ago. The Badgers have put their six-game losing streak behind them and appear to be pretty safely in the Big Dance. Tubby's Badgers have a valuable chip in the non-conference win over L'Ville, but really need a win tonight to feel secure. A loss tonight would drop them to 8-9 in Big Ten, and 4-8 in their last 12 games.
Maniac's Pick: Tubby rallies the troops and saves a slipping season with a big home win. Minnesota by 5.
Want More? Have something to Say?
Read, Rant, Agree, Disagree...Curse at Us (nicely please)
Do it all @ MarchManiacs.com
Read, Rant, Agree, Disagree...Curse at Us (nicely please)
Do it all @ MarchManiacs.com
Big Wins and Damaging Losses
Everything in the final few weeks is under a much closer magnifying glass. There are a few teams who might wish they could have shuffled yesterday's losses into the November mulligan pile.
Bad Losses:
Bad Losses:
- Miami (FL) all but sealed their NIT fate last night, falling to Florida State 80-67. The Canes join Notre Dame and Georgetown as one of the most disapointing teams in 2009.
- Illinois was starting to gather some momentum as a possible top-4 seed. Last night that came to a clanking halt. Let me emphasize "clank." As in 33 points. Yup, just 33 points. Granted Penn State netted only 38 in what has to be one of the lousier "decent" games of the season.
- Providence wasn't supposed to win at Louisville, but posting another double-digit loss against a formidable foe gives some ammo to the case for leaving out the Friars. One of their only saving graces might be the fact that Georgetown and Notre Dame seemingly refuse to make a late season charge, and the Big East is GOING to get eight teams in...
- Butler dropped another game last night, this time a three point loss to Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Butler peaked in the Top 10, but is looking more like a 10 seed if they don't get it together quickly.
- Someone should volunteer to play defense down in Knoxville. Most people still have the Vols comfortably in the tourney, but they sure are begging the committee to reconsider. Last night they got drubbed 81-65 by Ole Miss to fall to 7-4 in conference. They are 7-7 over their last 14 games overall. The Vols are still in decent shape, but with games still remaining against Florida, Kentucky and South Carolina they can still play themselves out of the tourney.
- Speaking of South Carolina, losing to Mississippi State is not the way to play yourself onto the good side of the bubble. The Gamecocks still have some work to do over the next three weeks.
- Ohio State is the same story; things were looking good until last night's surprising loss to Northwestern. With a few tips and breaks here and there, we wouldn't be talking about Ohio State's bad loss, but perhaps the Wildcats big win. Alas, that was a game the Buckeyes needed to stay in the Big Ten race.
- Perhaps the worst loss of the night was Virginia Tech. The Hokies find themselves in the bubble muddle in the middle of the deep ACC along with Florida State, BC, Miami and Maryland. That made losing to in-state rival Virginia particularly damning for VA Tech.
Want More? Have something to Say?
Read, Rant, Agree, Disagree...Curse at Us (nicely please)
Do it all @ MarchManiacs.com
Read, Rant, Agree, Disagree...Curse at Us (nicely please)
Do it all @ MarchManiacs.com
Cat fight
Ok, since you are all dying to know, I will answer my own question. There are eight D1 schools nicknamed "Wildcats."
Interestingly enough, all eight have at least a SHOT to dance. Villanova and Davidson are locks. Kentucky is looking good. Kansas State and Arizona are solid bubble teams. Weber State and Bethune-Cookman are first and second in their conferences respectively and should be strong candidates to win their conference's automatic bid.
Leaving only?? You guessed it, tourney virgin Northwestern University.
Interestingly enough, all eight have at least a SHOT to dance. Villanova and Davidson are locks. Kentucky is looking good. Kansas State and Arizona are solid bubble teams. Weber State and Bethune-Cookman are first and second in their conferences respectively and should be strong candidates to win their conference's automatic bid.
Leaving only?? You guessed it, tourney virgin Northwestern University.
Can the 'Cats give us a late run? Um...those ones.Want More? Have something to Say?
Read, Rant, Agree, Disagree...Curse at Us (nicely please)
Do it all @ MarchManiacs.com
Saturday's HUGE Wins
Yet another bizarre and delightful day of college hoops. Wake Forest did pollsters a favor by eliminating any possible consternation over who will be number one when the polls come out tomorrow when they lost at the buzzer to previously winless Georgia Tech. Yep, 0-6 in ACC play before taking on the Deacons who have beaten Duke and UNC. You try and figure out this season...
Yet The Yellow Jackets don't make our "Big Win" list; because the game ostensibly means very little. Georgia Tech is building for next year, but is in too deep of a hole to even entertain dreams of an at-large bid. It is unlikely they will see North of .500 and be eligible for post-season play period. SO, they don't make the list. (However, Wake could make the "bad loss" list for sure!)
Let's run down some of the biggest wins across the country yesterday:
Missouri got a much-needed win, and in convincing fashion whn they whooped Baylor yesterday. The Bears don't seem to have the magic they had last season, and are in real danger of missing the tourney. Missouri puts themself back in solid position after slipping a little with thir loss to K State earlier in the week.
Speaking on whom, how about Kansas State?? Left for dead a week ago, they beat Missouri and then go into Austin for their second straight win yesterday. It is still a tall mountain to climb, given their poor non-conference resume, but for the immediate time being, Kansas State has put themselves back in the tourney conversation.
What to make of the Pac-10? Just when everyone was ready to write off UCLA, everyone collapses around them and the Bruins once again look like the team to beat after a 30+ point beating of Stanford. Washington captured a huge win (84-71) at Arizona State yesterday, and Arizona continues their spirited resurgance winning over Washington State. Meanwhile USC reasserted their tourney hopes, and diminished those of Cal with their 73-62 win late last night.
It is a similar mess in the much maligned SEC. Tennessee was on the ropes but bounced up nicely with a sound beating of the Gators last night in Knoxville. The win pulls the Vols into a 4-way 2-loss tie atop the SEC East. South Carolina put a huge chip in their tourney pile with a win yesterday in Lexington. The Gamecocks are the most overlooked of the bunch, but at 16-4 (5-2) with their only non-conferences losses against Clemson and a tough Charelston squad and wins over Baylor and Kentucky their resume is looking tourney-solid.
LSU appears to be asserting themselves as the team to beat in the SEC West with another convincing victory, this one over Arkansas. Meanwhile Ole Miss made things more interesting beating in-state rival and formerly West-leading Mississippi State.
The two teams in the ACC that needed wins to keep their sagging tourney hopes alive got them yesterday. Boston College got a nice win over Virginia Tech, and Maryland got a desperatly needed victory over bubble-mate Miami. Again, there is still a month to play but BC and Maryland are right in the same sentance as Miami, Virginia Tech and FSU right now. I wouldn't want to be the committee who has to pick two or three and leave the others behind.
And perhaps the biggest "bubble-win" of the day, Northwestern (12-7, 4-5) downs Wisconsin. It wouldn't have seemed possible two months ago, but right now the Wildcats would be one of the last two or three teams left out of the tourney. The Big Ten will get six or seven bids, and Michigan and Wisconsin are leaving the door wide open. Northwestern is just a few wins from being in the Field. It goes without saying we will continue to follow the Wildcats' progress as they chase the school's first EVER NCAA bid.
Yet The Yellow Jackets don't make our "Big Win" list; because the game ostensibly means very little. Georgia Tech is building for next year, but is in too deep of a hole to even entertain dreams of an at-large bid. It is unlikely they will see North of .500 and be eligible for post-season play period. SO, they don't make the list. (However, Wake could make the "bad loss" list for sure!)
Let's run down some of the biggest wins across the country yesterday:
Missouri got a much-needed win, and in convincing fashion whn they whooped Baylor yesterday. The Bears don't seem to have the magic they had last season, and are in real danger of missing the tourney. Missouri puts themself back in solid position after slipping a little with thir loss to K State earlier in the week.
Speaking on whom, how about Kansas State?? Left for dead a week ago, they beat Missouri and then go into Austin for their second straight win yesterday. It is still a tall mountain to climb, given their poor non-conference resume, but for the immediate time being, Kansas State has put themselves back in the tourney conversation.
What to make of the Pac-10? Just when everyone was ready to write off UCLA, everyone collapses around them and the Bruins once again look like the team to beat after a 30+ point beating of Stanford. Washington captured a huge win (84-71) at Arizona State yesterday, and Arizona continues their spirited resurgance winning over Washington State. Meanwhile USC reasserted their tourney hopes, and diminished those of Cal with their 73-62 win late last night.
It is a similar mess in the much maligned SEC. Tennessee was on the ropes but bounced up nicely with a sound beating of the Gators last night in Knoxville. The win pulls the Vols into a 4-way 2-loss tie atop the SEC East. South Carolina put a huge chip in their tourney pile with a win yesterday in Lexington. The Gamecocks are the most overlooked of the bunch, but at 16-4 (5-2) with their only non-conferences losses against Clemson and a tough Charelston squad and wins over Baylor and Kentucky their resume is looking tourney-solid.
LSU appears to be asserting themselves as the team to beat in the SEC West with another convincing victory, this one over Arkansas. Meanwhile Ole Miss made things more interesting beating in-state rival and formerly West-leading Mississippi State.
The two teams in the ACC that needed wins to keep their sagging tourney hopes alive got them yesterday. Boston College got a nice win over Virginia Tech, and Maryland got a desperatly needed victory over bubble-mate Miami. Again, there is still a month to play but BC and Maryland are right in the same sentance as Miami, Virginia Tech and FSU right now. I wouldn't want to be the committee who has to pick two or three and leave the others behind.
And perhaps the biggest "bubble-win" of the day, Northwestern (12-7, 4-5) downs Wisconsin. It wouldn't have seemed possible two months ago, but right now the Wildcats would be one of the last two or three teams left out of the tourney. The Big Ten will get six or seven bids, and Michigan and Wisconsin are leaving the door wide open. Northwestern is just a few wins from being in the Field. It goes without saying we will continue to follow the Wildcats' progress as they chase the school's first EVER NCAA bid.
Is it too early to talk bubble??
At MarchManiacs, we say it is never too early to talk bubble. Furthermore, there are more than a few games that have major bubble implications.
Here is a quick guide to a few of the best:
2pm - Oklahoma State @ Texas A&M - It doesn't get any more "bubble" than this one. Both teams are squarely on it, and it is unlikely both will get tourney bids with Oklahoma, Texas and Kansas looking like locks, and Baylor and Missouri ahead of them. There is no way the Big 12 gets seven bids. The winner here has a valuable chip in their pocket for Selection Sunday.
3pm - South Carolina @ Kentucky - After Jodie Meeks' night at Tennessee the nation seemed willing to crown Kentucky the class of the SEC (I like the Cats, but would give the nod to Florida). South Carolina is an intersting team with some firepower and are 4-2 in SEC play, 15-4 overall. A win today puts the Gamecocks in the tourney mix (and comfortably ahead of Tennessee).
5pm - Baylor at Missouri - Same story as Ok St and A&M, only these two teams are positioned a little better. Baylor has the edge of being more highly regarded entering the season. Missouri has been overlooked all year; perhaps deservedly so after the stinkbomb they put up against Kansas State this week. This game probably means more to Missouri's tourney chances, especially since the game is in Colombia.
8pm - Two great ACC buble games; Virginia Tech travels to Boston College and Miami goes to Maryland. All four teams are still in the at-large mix (Va Tech being in good shape, Maryland teetering, the other two textbook "bubble" teams). The ACC has four clear locks, and VA Tech and FSU look to be #5 & #6. These two games go a long way to seeing which other teams will join the mix. Maryland is all but done with another loss or two, so will be scrappy tonight defending their homecourt.
8pm - Wisconsin @ Northwestern - If the Wildcats are going to end the longest tourney-less streak in the land (it is infinity and counting...) tonight's game HAS to be a win. If you were bracketing today, the Big Ten would get six, maybe seven. These two teams would be 8 & 9 respectively. An absolute must win for Northwestern.
10pm - California @ USC - Both teams enter 5-3 in Pac-10 play and solidly on the bubble. The Pac-10 looks to be one of the more up-for-grabs conferences in the nation, but only UCLA and Arizona State have garnered any national buzz. Washington surged out the conference lead with an upset win over UCLA, but appears to be coming back to the pack. Tonight's Cal/SC winner gets a valuable chip when it comes time to decide which four or five teams get to dance.
Here is a quick guide to a few of the best:
2pm - Oklahoma State @ Texas A&M - It doesn't get any more "bubble" than this one. Both teams are squarely on it, and it is unlikely both will get tourney bids with Oklahoma, Texas and Kansas looking like locks, and Baylor and Missouri ahead of them. There is no way the Big 12 gets seven bids. The winner here has a valuable chip in their pocket for Selection Sunday.
3pm - South Carolina @ Kentucky - After Jodie Meeks' night at Tennessee the nation seemed willing to crown Kentucky the class of the SEC (I like the Cats, but would give the nod to Florida). South Carolina is an intersting team with some firepower and are 4-2 in SEC play, 15-4 overall. A win today puts the Gamecocks in the tourney mix (and comfortably ahead of Tennessee).
5pm - Baylor at Missouri - Same story as Ok St and A&M, only these two teams are positioned a little better. Baylor has the edge of being more highly regarded entering the season. Missouri has been overlooked all year; perhaps deservedly so after the stinkbomb they put up against Kansas State this week. This game probably means more to Missouri's tourney chances, especially since the game is in Colombia.
8pm - Two great ACC buble games; Virginia Tech travels to Boston College and Miami goes to Maryland. All four teams are still in the at-large mix (Va Tech being in good shape, Maryland teetering, the other two textbook "bubble" teams). The ACC has four clear locks, and VA Tech and FSU look to be #5 & #6. These two games go a long way to seeing which other teams will join the mix. Maryland is all but done with another loss or two, so will be scrappy tonight defending their homecourt.
8pm - Wisconsin @ Northwestern - If the Wildcats are going to end the longest tourney-less streak in the land (it is infinity and counting...) tonight's game HAS to be a win. If you were bracketing today, the Big Ten would get six, maybe seven. These two teams would be 8 & 9 respectively. An absolute must win for Northwestern.
10pm - California @ USC - Both teams enter 5-3 in Pac-10 play and solidly on the bubble. The Pac-10 looks to be one of the more up-for-grabs conferences in the nation, but only UCLA and Arizona State have garnered any national buzz. Washington surged out the conference lead with an upset win over UCLA, but appears to be coming back to the pack. Tonight's Cal/SC winner gets a valuable chip when it comes time to decide which four or five teams get to dance.
Wake Up Calls: Making Sense of a Wacky Wednesday
The headlines will all be clamoring about the "huge upset" of #1 Wake Forest. Don't let that fool you. Yes, Wake has been playing great ball, but by no means was this the construct of a team built to run the table. When Carolina fell at BC, Indiana's 32-year stranglehold on perfection remained safe.
If nothing else, last night's Virginia Tech victory told us two things; One, the ACC is good. Expect 6 or 7 teams to dance. Virginia Tech is in that mix, and last night's win helped advance that cause. Their record isn't stellar, but look at some of their losses (an OT loss to Xavier in Puerto Rico on a 50-foot buzzer beater). Two, parity is king this season. Last year all four #1 seeds advanced to the Final Four for the first time. Don't expect a repeat this season.
Relax Dino, It's Gonna be that kinda year...
Case in point; Arkansas defeated two Top Ten Big 12 frontrunners. The Hogs are now 0-3 in a "down" SEC. Boston College slayed UNC in shocking fashion. They then turned around and lost to Harvard. BC is at best a long shot to make the field of 65.
It is going to be a roller coaster ride to the finish, but as Dickie V so incessantly reminds us. "at least we find out the champion on the court."
Amen Dickie.
Wednesday Recap:
Clemson's pasting in Chapel Hill told the nation what Tiger fans were hoping to suppress; "here we go again." The Tigers were ranked as high as ninth, deservedly so, but after their past two less-than-impressive performances against the conference big boys their reputation takes a huge ding. Not only that, but if they suffer a few losses to the likes of Va Tech, NC State, Miami and FSU, "bubble" talk might be appropriate in Clemson.
How in the hell did Florida lose that game?? If you haven't seen it yet, check out the youtube clip. For South Carolina, it keeps their tourney hopes buoyant, as the SEC West looks dreadful, it is not impossible to sneak in four from the east...
The Mountain West is the best of the non-BCS conferences, however their balanced parity is going to cost them bids in March. UNLV pulled off a road win at BYU last night. Both of them appear to be in decent shape to dance, despite being unranked, but New Mexico, Utah and TCU will all provide tough competition to the end. The beatings they are giving each other could drive them all down to around 9-10 conference wins. That would necessitate winning the confernce tournament to enjoy a stress-free Selction Sunday. For the rest, that is an NIT equation.
Arizona is screwed. Last night's come-from-ahead loss to instate rival Arizona State dropped the Cats to 2-5 in Pac 1o play and a long way from the bubble. The rebuilding has officially begun, only it doesn't really seem as if "rebuilding" is the proper term. "Chaos" seems more apropos. I bet Brandon Jennings is ecstatic he (couldn't get admitted) chose to play overseas... I feel badly for Chase Buddinger. He is playing really well in what appears to be a historically poor season in Tuscon when he easily could have left for the NBA last season.
The A-10 might be Xavier and the dozen dwarfs, but the games are crazy exciting. Two more went to overtime last night, with Duquesne dropping a nail-biter to St. Joes 99-98, and Charlotte nipping UMass in OT. Add in Rhode Island losing by three at Richmond and you have one heck of a balanced league. And of course, just one NCAA bid.
The SEC West is winnable at 9-7. LSU pasted 3-0 Mississippi State last night. Alabama, Auburn and Ole Miss are all over the place, and who knows what to make of Arkansas. In a year of parity, their is no better example of the grab-bag between #20 and #50 in the country than in the SEC West.
The MVC has a lot of good teams. However they appear to lack a great one. I wonder if the balance in the Big 10, ACC and depth in the Big East will leave two or three sitting on the sidelines in March. Illinois State, Creighton and Evansville appeared to be the strongest early on (with some consideration for Drake as well), however Northern Iowa has stormed out to a 7-1 conference record and a two-game lead on the field. The problem? They had five losses before entering conference play. Only Marquette was ranked (the others, Iowa,Iowa St, Illinois-Chicago and Wyoming). Not exactly the way to get multiple bids for a non BCS league. The MVC's conference tournament will not only be great basketball, but very meaningful hoops as well.
And how about the Northwestern Wildcats? They rewarded the Maniac's proclamation that the Minnesota loss to Northwestern was not a "bad loss" but rather a "good win" for a good Northwestern team with a road victory over conference-unbeaten Michigan State. With their next two contests against Michigan and Indiana, it is not ridiculous to think Northwestern could put themselves squarely in NCAA Tourney conversation. If you are scoring at home the Wildcats now have wins over Florida State, Minnesota and Michigan State, three teams likely dancing in March.
And as much as we have had some bumps and bruises since it first appeared likely... the dream of the February 11th #1 vs. #2 Duke - Carolina shootout still seems possible.
So much for parity...
If nothing else, last night's Virginia Tech victory told us two things; One, the ACC is good. Expect 6 or 7 teams to dance. Virginia Tech is in that mix, and last night's win helped advance that cause. Their record isn't stellar, but look at some of their losses (an OT loss to Xavier in Puerto Rico on a 50-foot buzzer beater). Two, parity is king this season. Last year all four #1 seeds advanced to the Final Four for the first time. Don't expect a repeat this season.
Relax Dino, It's Gonna be that kinda year...Case in point; Arkansas defeated two Top Ten Big 12 frontrunners. The Hogs are now 0-3 in a "down" SEC. Boston College slayed UNC in shocking fashion. They then turned around and lost to Harvard. BC is at best a long shot to make the field of 65.
It is going to be a roller coaster ride to the finish, but as Dickie V so incessantly reminds us. "at least we find out the champion on the court."
Amen Dickie.
Wednesday Recap:
Clemson's pasting in Chapel Hill told the nation what Tiger fans were hoping to suppress; "here we go again." The Tigers were ranked as high as ninth, deservedly so, but after their past two less-than-impressive performances against the conference big boys their reputation takes a huge ding. Not only that, but if they suffer a few losses to the likes of Va Tech, NC State, Miami and FSU, "bubble" talk might be appropriate in Clemson.
How in the hell did Florida lose that game?? If you haven't seen it yet, check out the youtube clip. For South Carolina, it keeps their tourney hopes buoyant, as the SEC West looks dreadful, it is not impossible to sneak in four from the east...
The Mountain West is the best of the non-BCS conferences, however their balanced parity is going to cost them bids in March. UNLV pulled off a road win at BYU last night. Both of them appear to be in decent shape to dance, despite being unranked, but New Mexico, Utah and TCU will all provide tough competition to the end. The beatings they are giving each other could drive them all down to around 9-10 conference wins. That would necessitate winning the confernce tournament to enjoy a stress-free Selction Sunday. For the rest, that is an NIT equation.
Arizona is screwed. Last night's come-from-ahead loss to instate rival Arizona State dropped the Cats to 2-5 in Pac 1o play and a long way from the bubble. The rebuilding has officially begun, only it doesn't really seem as if "rebuilding" is the proper term. "Chaos" seems more apropos. I bet Brandon Jennings is ecstatic he (couldn't get admitted) chose to play overseas... I feel badly for Chase Buddinger. He is playing really well in what appears to be a historically poor season in Tuscon when he easily could have left for the NBA last season.
The A-10 might be Xavier and the dozen dwarfs, but the games are crazy exciting. Two more went to overtime last night, with Duquesne dropping a nail-biter to St. Joes 99-98, and Charlotte nipping UMass in OT. Add in Rhode Island losing by three at Richmond and you have one heck of a balanced league. And of course, just one NCAA bid.
The SEC West is winnable at 9-7. LSU pasted 3-0 Mississippi State last night. Alabama, Auburn and Ole Miss are all over the place, and who knows what to make of Arkansas. In a year of parity, their is no better example of the grab-bag between #20 and #50 in the country than in the SEC West.
The MVC has a lot of good teams. However they appear to lack a great one. I wonder if the balance in the Big 10, ACC and depth in the Big East will leave two or three sitting on the sidelines in March. Illinois State, Creighton and Evansville appeared to be the strongest early on (with some consideration for Drake as well), however Northern Iowa has stormed out to a 7-1 conference record and a two-game lead on the field. The problem? They had five losses before entering conference play. Only Marquette was ranked (the others, Iowa,Iowa St, Illinois-Chicago and Wyoming). Not exactly the way to get multiple bids for a non BCS league. The MVC's conference tournament will not only be great basketball, but very meaningful hoops as well.
And how about the Northwestern Wildcats? They rewarded the Maniac's proclamation that the Minnesota loss to Northwestern was not a "bad loss" but rather a "good win" for a good Northwestern team with a road victory over conference-unbeaten Michigan State. With their next two contests against Michigan and Indiana, it is not ridiculous to think Northwestern could put themselves squarely in NCAA Tourney conversation. If you are scoring at home the Wildcats now have wins over Florida State, Minnesota and Michigan State, three teams likely dancing in March.
And as much as we have had some bumps and bruises since it first appeared likely... the dream of the February 11th #1 vs. #2 Duke - Carolina shootout still seems possible.
So much for parity...
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)