Tonight was a big night for bolstering the national profile of the Atlantic 10. Last season they flirted with sending as many as six teams to the Dance, before eventually settling for three, with three more in the NIT. This season looked to be a down year, with Temple, Xavier and Richmond all taking a disappointing early loss or two.
The Atlantic 10 collectively came up big tonight. First, Dayton took down CAA standout George Mason 73-67. After some early struggles Dayton is looking more and more like an NCAA Tournament team.
Richmond pummeled Wake Forest on the road 90-74. Wake is undeniably down this year, and will likely finsh with a sub .500 record, however aany blowout road win against an ACC school is good for the overall profile.
Lastly, and perhaps most impressivly, Rhode Island knocked off Boston College 67-65. The Eagles got some pub for their early season loss to lowly Yale. Since that upset they had regrouped and and won seven straight, including wins over Cal, Indiana, UMass, Providence and Maryland. This is a great win for the Rams who played Pitt tough in the season opener, and had looked uneven since.
The win moves the Rams to 9-4 and puts another team in the at-large conversation for the league. Likely no more than three will dance, but with Temple, Xavier, Dayton, Richmond and Rhode Island the A-10 is again relevant on the national stage.
Showing posts with label Wake Forest. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Wake Forest. Show all posts
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.
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Early Highs & Lows
As the saying goes, You can't win 'em all. Especially when you are the big boy on the block with a big target on your back for most of your non-conference games as smaller schools ramp up for one of the precious few chances to get some national attention. Every year several mid or low majors jump up and pick off one of the big boys, and just a short week into the season, this year is proving no exception.
Here's a quick rundown of what you might have missed in the opening week; five teams that have underwhelmed and a few more that have impressed. With about a half-dozen preseason tournaments going on this weekend, this list is sure to grow rapidly. The Maniac will provide another solid recap on Monday, as well as issuing some "Upset Alerts" for this weekend, so be sure to check back tonight and tomorrow
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Five Underwhelmers:
2. LSU - It seems like the Tigers seem to find their way into the Maniac's doghouse every Winter. Usually it's for their dreadful non-conference schedule. This year, it's for their dreadful schedule AND getting blasted at home by Nichols State. This Sunday's date with Memphis will be a good indication as to whether it was just a rough night or the start of a rough season.
3. Wake Forest - Perhaps no team in the country has been hit harder by early NBA entrants than the Deacons. Kentucky may have lost more players, but at least there it is sort of expected. It's also far easier to reload in the Bluegrass than it is in the pale shadow of Duke and UNC. It's an excuse for the Deacons to be down this season. It's not an excuse for opening with a home loss to Atlantic Sun also-ran Stetson . Following it up with a 90-69 drubbing, again at home, to Virginia Commonwealth has it looking like Wake could be near the bottom of a down ACC.
With one of the nation's toughest non-conference schedules (Wofford, Iowa, Butler, Gonzaga, Georgia, LSU, Cincinnati and Wake Forest - plus possible meetings with either Old Dominion/Clemson or Seton Hall/Alabama) the Muskies better see some improvement quickly or it could be more than their Sweet 16 streak in jeopardy, it could be their tourney appearance streak as well...
5. South Florida - Last year the Bulls became media darlings of sorts as they made a daring run towards the NCAA Tournament despite being projected 14th or 15th in preseason BEast coaches polls. The Bulls came up just short, but entered this season with high expectations, despite Dominique James leaving early for the NBA. With losses to Southern Miss and UCF, the Bulls are not only digging a nearly-impossible to climb out of ditch, they would also be in last place in Conference USA.
And a Few Pleasant Surprises...
* Gardner Webb - Yes, they got boat raced down in Tallahassee, but the opening win over Charlotte was impressive. With upcoming dates with Michigan, Oklahoma, Arizona State and Louisville the Bulldogs will get a few more chances to add another profile win. Don't laugh, one of those wins could be the difference between a #13 and a virtually unwinnable #15 or #16 seed in March.
* Georgia - Florida, Kentucky, and Tennessee enter the season ranked and Vanderbilt is considered a fringe tournament team by most. However, don't sleep on Georgia in the slightly overrated SEC East. Their win over Colorado is a better win that it appears at first blush, and the 'Dawgs handled them with relative ease. A Thanksgiving date with Notre Dame and early December hookups with Georgia Tech and UAB will give the 'Dawgs a chance to build a solid profile before conference play.
* St Mary's - They've played two non D-1 throwaways, but the 76-71 win over an improved St John's squad could be a nice chip to pile in March. Omar Samham is gone, but don't make the mistake of overlooking the Gaels. They'll get their chance on December 1st to do something conference rival Gonzaga could not; beat San Diego State.
* San Diego State - Speaking of which, the Aztecs might be the best mid-major in the country this season. Their road win in the Kennel is as impressive a win as a team has notched so far in this young season. If "best" seems like hyperbole, it isn't. They have to be considered no worse than co-favorite with BYU to win the Mountain West, and appear to be ahead of Gonzaga, Memphis, Xavier, Butler and the other usual suspects.
And the recap wouldn't be complete without a tip of the beanie to the Yale Bulldogs, despite losses to Quinnipiac and Providence, they were still able to go into Chestnut Hill and pull off the stunner.
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A TECHnical Lock?
Virginia Tech is 20-4 (7-3) heading into tonight's visit from Wake Forest. Granted, VA Tech's pre-conference highlights include only wins over Georgia, Penn State and Seton Hall, and a loss at Temple. But since when does 20-4 with a 7-3 record in the ACC have you squarely on the bubble?
I think, for once, I agree with Seth Greenburg's apopleptic frustration. Not enough to ever dream of sabatoging the greatest sporting event in America and turining it into a 96-team slopfest, but enough to agree that his Hokies have been drastically overlooked so far this season. Aside from the loss at Miami, they have not taken anything resembling a bad loss this season.
There are two obvious solutions to earning respect: One - schedule better. It's too late to fix that one this year. Secondly? WIN tonight over Wake Forest, move into second place in the ACC and grab firmly ahold of your spot in the Dance.
I really like this Wake Forest team. Al Farouq Aminu is a beast and their guard play is steady, if not spectacular. They can win a game or two in the tourney, and should definitely get to the Dance. My early season proclamation of Georgia Tech and Clemson as two and three in the conference might have been off base. Wake deserves to be in that discussion far more than those two. However, I like The ACC's leading scorer Malcolm Delaney and the Hokies grabbing a huge program win tonight on their home floor.
I think, for once, I agree with Seth Greenburg's apopleptic frustration. Not enough to ever dream of sabatoging the greatest sporting event in America and turining it into a 96-team slopfest, but enough to agree that his Hokies have been drastically overlooked so far this season. Aside from the loss at Miami, they have not taken anything resembling a bad loss this season. There are two obvious solutions to earning respect: One - schedule better. It's too late to fix that one this year. Secondly? WIN tonight over Wake Forest, move into second place in the ACC and grab firmly ahold of your spot in the Dance.
I really like this Wake Forest team. Al Farouq Aminu is a beast and their guard play is steady, if not spectacular. They can win a game or two in the tourney, and should definitely get to the Dance. My early season proclamation of Georgia Tech and Clemson as two and three in the conference might have been off base. Wake deserves to be in that discussion far more than those two. However, I like The ACC's leading scorer Malcolm Delaney and the Hokies grabbing a huge program win tonight on their home floor.
MANIAC'S PICK:
Virginia Tech -4.5
Weekend Review - ACC Jan 10th
The salvo Georgia Tech fired across Duke's bow Saturday has to resonate leaguewide. The message? The ACC is more wide open than it has been in a decade. Duke loses their road opener and North Carolina has looked incredibly vulnerable in the young season. I wrote several weeks ago that #3 through #11 this league was as jumbled as any. Perhaps it should be ammended to #1-#12; i.e. top to bottom.
Clemson handled their homecourt with ease, downing Boston College 72-56. The win was a nice bounce back for the Tigers after their opening loss in Cameron. The game of the day was Miami defeating Wake Forest 77-76 at home. Both teams look like NCAA Tournament teams to me, though there is still a long way to go in a brutal conference slate. Miami, unranked as of yesterday, is off to a 15-1 start. Might it be view the Canes as legitimate conference title challengers?
The ACC has long played some of their finer confernce games on Sunday night. While most people were watching the NFL, Maryland got a huge win, 77-68 over Florida State. It seems the Terps are annually on the bubble and the non-conference performance leads you to believe it might be more of the same in 2010. Conference wins will be huge, and it is important to win at home if you want to dance in March.
Carolina pulled away late and got a got win over a better than advertised Virginia Tech ballclub, 78-64. And speaking of bubble, Seth Greenburg's Hokies are annual staddlers as well. With Miami and FSU up next, they can ill-afford a 0-3 conference start and will need to knock off one of them.
Lastly, hats off to Virginia. The Cavs were largely picked last in the preseason but won their opener 70-62 over NC State, on the road no less. Let's not get hasty booking tourney plans, but it seems that all 12 teams will be capable of winning, and losing, on any night.
Team Up: Virginia, Maryland, Miami
Team Down: Boston College, NC State
Week ahead highlights: Maryland @ Wake (Tues), UNC @ Clemson (Wed), GA Tech @ UNC & VA Tech @ FSU (Sat), Wake @ Duke (Sun)
Clemson handled their homecourt with ease, downing Boston College 72-56. The win was a nice bounce back for the Tigers after their opening loss in Cameron. The game of the day was Miami defeating Wake Forest 77-76 at home. Both teams look like NCAA Tournament teams to me, though there is still a long way to go in a brutal conference slate. Miami, unranked as of yesterday, is off to a 15-1 start. Might it be view the Canes as legitimate conference title challengers?
The ACC has long played some of their finer confernce games on Sunday night. While most people were watching the NFL, Maryland got a huge win, 77-68 over Florida State. It seems the Terps are annually on the bubble and the non-conference performance leads you to believe it might be more of the same in 2010. Conference wins will be huge, and it is important to win at home if you want to dance in March.
Carolina pulled away late and got a got win over a better than advertised Virginia Tech ballclub, 78-64. And speaking of bubble, Seth Greenburg's Hokies are annual staddlers as well. With Miami and FSU up next, they can ill-afford a 0-3 conference start and will need to knock off one of them.
Lastly, hats off to Virginia. The Cavs were largely picked last in the preseason but won their opener 70-62 over NC State, on the road no less. Let's not get hasty booking tourney plans, but it seems that all 12 teams will be capable of winning, and losing, on any night.
Team Up: Virginia, Maryland, Miami
Team Down: Boston College, NC State
Week ahead highlights: Maryland @ Wake (Tues), UNC @ Clemson (Wed), GA Tech @ UNC & VA Tech @ FSU (Sat), Wake @ Duke (Sun)
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Rating Saturday's Top Games
The NFL playoffs start today, and the Maniac's beloved Bengals will host our (yep, I even say "our" like it is possible I'll make a tackle tomorrow) second playoff game in twenty years. As long time tortured season tickets holders, my whole family is super psyched.
That said, there is still some fantastic college hoops worth catching early, or DVR'ing for later.
FIVE STARS:
Purdue @ Wisconsin (1:30 EST - Big Ten Network)
Hardly anyone wins at the Kohl Center other than the Badgers. They have already dispatched a fantastic Duke team there this season, next up they'll try to do the same to the Boilermakers. A win for Wisconsin puts them solidly in the mix to win the Big Ten title and lurches them into the same sentance as Purdue and Michigan State. A win for the Boilers cements them, in my mind, as the clear conference favorite and a huge step towards capturing a #1 seed in March.
FOUR STARS:
Northern Iowa @ Illinois State (4 EST - ESPN)
One of the nation's best kept secrets travels to dangerous Illinois State and perhaps the conference's best player in Osiris Eldridge. The Valley is notorious for beating each other up all season long, preventing two or three teams to seperate from the pack and bolster their at-large chances. Today is an opportunity for Northern Iowa to do just that.
Mississippi @ Mississippi State - The two best teams in the SEC West lock up in a fantastic rival that should be amplified by both teams collective talent level this season. The winner gets an early jump on winning the West.
BYU @ UTEP (9 EST) - This game is a huge feather for both in their at-large profile, though it likely means more to UTEP with BYU a pretty solid lock for March unless they really falter in conference. C-USA is much improved while constant giant Memphis is down. This is the year they might snatch multiple NCAA bids, but it will be competitive with UAB, Houston, Tulsa and Memphis all jockeying. This one is huge for the Miners.
UConn @ Georgetown (Noon, ESPN) - Hard to say this one kills the loser, but it is a good chance to see two of the countries better team; though still very flawed teams, lock horns. Both could use a solid conference win in the uber-competitive BEast. Let's be honest, any game in that conference not involving DePaul, Rutgers, Providence or USF is at least a 3-star game.
Marquette @ Villanova (2 EST) - Marquette could very easily be 3-0 in conference, ranked nationally and be enjoying the media crush that has bestowed upon Pitt this week. Instead, they find theselves in a precarious spot; lose at Nova and they fall to 1-3 and become an early "bubble" candidate...
Wake Forest @ Miami -Two teams that can actually make a claim to being "underrated" despite very good records and playing in the ACC. The winner today can make a good case for being in the Top 15 in the country and gets a valable chip for late season jockeying through the middle of the ACC pecking order.
THREE STARS:
Florida @ Vanderbilt (Noon) - Think Florida's hot start wasn't a bit of a mirage? Vegas has the Gators as seven point dogs to the 'Dores
St John's @ Louisville (Noon) - St John's better get rolling soon or it is yet another empty postseason and bottom half BEast finish.
Niagara @ Siena - Two best MEAC teams go head to head
Duke @ Georgia Tech - great litmus test for the young Jackets
Kansas State @ Missouri - great chance for Mizzou to jump on radar, great chance for Cats to show they deserve a top ten ranking
Ohio State @ Minnesota - looking forward to seeing if Evan Turner is all the way back in a tricky road stop for the Bucks.
Georgia @ Kentucky - always a good rivalry, it will be interesting to see if the Cats play with the killer instinct needed to bury a lesser opponent.
Oklahoma @ Baylor - OK Sooners, you want to stay relevant in 2010, you need to start winning soon. Today at Baylor would be a good start.
Cincinnati @ Seton Hall - Both teams fancy themselves as tourney teams in 2010. The Pirate fall to 0-4 with a loss and will be buried pretty deep. Meanwhile the Cats need the road win to stop their skid and remain at .500 in conference play.
Tulsa @ Houston - A nice chance to get out to the front of C-USA pack in the conference opener.
West Virginia @ Notre Dame - A chance for the Irish to get their first big win of the season, and boy do they really need a few to bolster that resume.
Texas Tech @ Oklahoma State - Something tells me that only one of the these two teams find themselves on the favorable side of the bubble in ten weeks. A head-to-head win sure never hurts.
Gonzaga @ Portland - A big chance for Portland to get back to relevant. A nice chance for Gonzaga to smack back the uprising and show the WCC who is still boss.
That said, there is still some fantastic college hoops worth catching early, or DVR'ing for later.
FIVE STARS:
Purdue @ Wisconsin (1:30 EST - Big Ten Network)
Hardly anyone wins at the Kohl Center other than the Badgers. They have already dispatched a fantastic Duke team there this season, next up they'll try to do the same to the Boilermakers. A win for Wisconsin puts them solidly in the mix to win the Big Ten title and lurches them into the same sentance as Purdue and Michigan State. A win for the Boilers cements them, in my mind, as the clear conference favorite and a huge step towards capturing a #1 seed in March.
FOUR STARS:
Northern Iowa @ Illinois State (4 EST - ESPN)
One of the nation's best kept secrets travels to dangerous Illinois State and perhaps the conference's best player in Osiris Eldridge. The Valley is notorious for beating each other up all season long, preventing two or three teams to seperate from the pack and bolster their at-large chances. Today is an opportunity for Northern Iowa to do just that.
Mississippi @ Mississippi State - The two best teams in the SEC West lock up in a fantastic rival that should be amplified by both teams collective talent level this season. The winner gets an early jump on winning the West.
BYU @ UTEP (9 EST) - This game is a huge feather for both in their at-large profile, though it likely means more to UTEP with BYU a pretty solid lock for March unless they really falter in conference. C-USA is much improved while constant giant Memphis is down. This is the year they might snatch multiple NCAA bids, but it will be competitive with UAB, Houston, Tulsa and Memphis all jockeying. This one is huge for the Miners.
UConn @ Georgetown (Noon, ESPN) - Hard to say this one kills the loser, but it is a good chance to see two of the countries better team; though still very flawed teams, lock horns. Both could use a solid conference win in the uber-competitive BEast. Let's be honest, any game in that conference not involving DePaul, Rutgers, Providence or USF is at least a 3-star game.
Marquette @ Villanova (2 EST) - Marquette could very easily be 3-0 in conference, ranked nationally and be enjoying the media crush that has bestowed upon Pitt this week. Instead, they find theselves in a precarious spot; lose at Nova and they fall to 1-3 and become an early "bubble" candidate...
Wake Forest @ Miami -Two teams that can actually make a claim to being "underrated" despite very good records and playing in the ACC. The winner today can make a good case for being in the Top 15 in the country and gets a valable chip for late season jockeying through the middle of the ACC pecking order.
THREE STARS:
Florida @ Vanderbilt (Noon) - Think Florida's hot start wasn't a bit of a mirage? Vegas has the Gators as seven point dogs to the 'Dores
St John's @ Louisville (Noon) - St John's better get rolling soon or it is yet another empty postseason and bottom half BEast finish.
Niagara @ Siena - Two best MEAC teams go head to head
Duke @ Georgia Tech - great litmus test for the young Jackets
Kansas State @ Missouri - great chance for Mizzou to jump on radar, great chance for Cats to show they deserve a top ten ranking
Ohio State @ Minnesota - looking forward to seeing if Evan Turner is all the way back in a tricky road stop for the Bucks.
Georgia @ Kentucky - always a good rivalry, it will be interesting to see if the Cats play with the killer instinct needed to bury a lesser opponent.
Oklahoma @ Baylor - OK Sooners, you want to stay relevant in 2010, you need to start winning soon. Today at Baylor would be a good start.
Cincinnati @ Seton Hall - Both teams fancy themselves as tourney teams in 2010. The Pirate fall to 0-4 with a loss and will be buried pretty deep. Meanwhile the Cats need the road win to stop their skid and remain at .500 in conference play.
Tulsa @ Houston - A nice chance to get out to the front of C-USA pack in the conference opener.
West Virginia @ Notre Dame - A chance for the Irish to get their first big win of the season, and boy do they really need a few to bolster that resume.
Texas Tech @ Oklahoma State - Something tells me that only one of the these two teams find themselves on the favorable side of the bubble in ten weeks. A head-to-head win sure never hurts.
Gonzaga @ Portland - A big chance for Portland to get back to relevant. A nice chance for Gonzaga to smack back the uprising and show the WCC who is still boss.
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A New Year of Bracketeering - Jan 8th, 2010
The calendar has turned and we bravely embark on a new decade of Bracketeering. First off - a big thanks to all our readers, you are growing in numbers and pretty soon the Maniac has a feeling that relatives will no longer control the majority of our audeince... goodtimes indeed.
For our neophytes, a quick synopsis of the methodology employed here: 1. We do not care about the AP and coaches poll, wins and losses do not move you up or down a prescribed number of slots. 2. We do our best to weigh both performance, but also a little predictive nature as well, meaning not just what you have done, but also waht our eyes tell us you can do. 3. You are welcome to piss, moan and complain about our rankings. We enjoy the emails, and have learned several new creatives profanities from you. So, Mazel Tov, and Happy New Year.
Enjoy the decade's first edition of Bracketeering.
FINAL FOUR:
1. Texas - I definitely flirted with dropping the Horns this week after a few somnambulistic performances against UT Corpus Christi and Arkansas. However, don't most good team go through a few little lulls here and there, especially in games against lesser competition? What I do know is that when the big boys came to play, the Horns beat 'em by double digits. They win a lot of games late, if for no other reason than they have tremendous depth. The general fan is more familiar with the names on Kansas and Kentucky's rosters, but the Horns are ten deep, athletic and balanced. For now - they keep our top slot once again.
2. Kansas - Some people will overreact to the close call at home against Cornell, but not us. The Red are good. Even better? The stern test of the Jayhawks before the rigors of confere4nce play commence. It has been a long time since they were tested. It is good to find out who your Alpha Dog is before everything is on the line in March. And if there was any doubt, there is no longer. It's Sherron Collins. His numbers aren't spectacular; and therein lies his greatest strength on my POY ballot. He is assimilating all the talent available with aplomb, and gives them everything you want from a PG who will be contending for a National Title. So, yeah, I've come around on Collins.
Oh, and the dismantling of a good Temple team on the road was as brilliant as a team has played this year. Not this team. Any team.
3. Purdue - I'm starting to really love this team. They share the ball better than any team in the nation, and remind me a lot of the 2006-2007 Gator squad. They have good players with clearly, and perfectly defined roles. They have NBA talent with Johnson, Hummel and E'Twan Moore. They have the best glue guy in country in Chris Kramer and have a functional bench. They are not more talented per se than our #4 team, but gut instict tells me they are a little better as a team.
This is a huge "show me" stretch coming up for the Boilers with a trip to the Kohl Center tomorrow (where the Badgers have already beaten Duke) and a visit from the once again Evan Turner-led Buckeyes on Tuesday. Win both? Final Four talk has to heat up beyond Boiling in West Lafayette.
4. Kentucky - Fourth? Last week I have them #2, they handle Louisville, I write a "Run the Table" column...and now drop them to fourth? It's not an indictment of the Cats, it's simply that Kansas and Purdue looked brilliant the past week, and the Cats are still a little more potential than polish. That said, with Wall and Cousins blossoming more every week, it is getting harder and harder to see this team not making the short drive to Indy this April. Think there'd be a few Cat fans there??
ELITE EIGHT:
5. Duke - I'm getting less and less gun shy about my take on the Devils everytime I see them play...but still have an ounce of trepidation after the way they eveaporated in conference play and the tourney. That said, they are number 5...and then there is a drop. I'd be comfortable with them in the Final Five is such a thing existed.
Is there a classier act in college hoops than Coach K? The Dukies played a neutral court game with Iowa State in their annual tradition of bringing a game to a veteran player's hometown to play in front of friends and family. This time, John Scheyer did not disappoint, playing brilliantly and continuing his surprising First Team All-American campaign (and yes, he would have my vote once my ballot arrives....waiting...hmmm....)
6. Syracuse - Perhaps the loss to Pitt wasn't so bad in retrospect? We'll know more in a few weeks. What I do know, is that aside from that blip (where I thought Pitt just caught fire from behind the arc against the zone), they've looked like a Final Four caliber team. Great guard play, an All-American swingman in Wesley Johnson and some bangers underneath. Still love this team, and the bounce back win over Memphis shows me they are mentally tough as well.
7. West Virginia - Losing to Purdue is not a big deal. They should have lost to Marquette, but didn't. That said, this team has loads of talent and is dangerous. They are seventh, but I think I'd prefer to have them eighth, and leave the seventh slot open. There is that clear of a gap between the Top Six so far this season and the rest of the pack. Let's see if the 'Eers can maintain their focus and win two they should (Notre Dame and USF) before hosting Syracuse next weekend.
8.Kansas State - The Wildcats are just kind of hovering for the time being. I'm not sure they are the 8th best team in the country but am looking forward to getting a read on them this weekend with a trip to Missouri and a Tuesday visit from Texas A&M. Oh, and there's a little trip from Texas next weekend as well...
Sweet and lurking: The next tier
9. Michigan State - Is the run starting? It usually comes around February, until next thing you know, the Spartans are the dangerous #2 seed no one wants in their Region. The difference this year? They were as high as #2 in many national polls until a few early losses knocked them off the radar. The solid win over Wisconsin was impressive. Although there are no "gimmes" in the Big Ten (save for Iowa) their next seven games are all realistically "should wins" with the possible exception of a trip to Minnesota. Expect the Spartans to be right in the thivk of the Big Ten race when an exciting pair of games with Purdue rolls around this February.
10. Ole Miss - Maybe a little high considering the two losses are to upper echelon Big East teams, Villanova and West Virginia, which could suggest they are not a top tier team. Their inside play is uneven at best and not always pretty to watch. However, the old axiom that guard play wins in the tourney bodes well for Ole Miss who boasts the most underrated backcourt in the country.
11. Villanova - Wow, it seems like the #11 hole is where we weekly bury the upcoming prospects of some unsuspecting mid-major. Last edition we offered Temple up to the basketball Gods, only to have them sacrificed on the Jayhawks alter. This week, we flirted with a few of our mid-major darlings, but were compelled to concede the spot belongs to Villanova. I think it is becoming my silent accidental bias, but I am just never sold on these guys, despite the tourney success every year with Scottie Reynolds and Jay Wright. I am curious to see how they handle a visit from tough luck 1-2 Marquette and their trip to Louisville on Tuesday.
12. Connecticut - They have three losses by a combined total of fourteen points. The losses: Duke, Kentucky and at Cincinnati. They have a few holes, but much like Carolina I would be fearful of this team in March. They have one of the highest ceilings of any Big East team.
13. Northern Iowa - Yeah, I'm aware they are unranked in the polls. That's because most voters don't realize that good basketball happens outside the Big Six conferences, Memphis and Gonzaga. The Missouri Valley is consistently incredibly balanced and good. The Panthers are 4-0 in league play with wins over three of the top challengers (all by comfortable margins); Southern Illinois, Creighton and Missouri State. They have a tricky trip to Illinois State tomorrow (which I have probably effectively hexed them in...)
14. Wake Forest - I'm not sure why we all collectively forgot about the Deac's heading into this season. Sure, they miss early entries Johnson and Teague, but still have All-American candidate Al-Farouq Aminu dominating the paint. Admittedly this spot could have just as easily gone to Miami, Florida State, North Carolina (who I refuse to give up on!) and possibly even Virginia Tech. However, I give Wake the nod after completing a month without a loss that included wins over Gonzaga, NC State, Richmond and Xavier.
The Demon Deacons have a tough stretch with a trip to Miami tomorrow, a visit from Maryland Tuesday, then consecutive trips to Durham and Chapel Hill.
So in all likliehood, we have also put a well-timed hex on Wake! That said, go 2-2, and life is fine. Emerge 3-1 and this spot is more than well earned; it's too low.
15. Gonzaga - We are officially absolving them for the Duke disaster, figuring they are not the first or the last team to get humiliated on a bad day against the Dukies. They followed it up by winning at Oklahoma and at Illinois. Let's see how they handle the next, and most difficult remaining, stretch of the season: AT Portland tomorrow, AT St Mary's on Tuesday and AT San Diego next weekend. Win those three and they grab the improved WCC by the throat and can begin focusing on earning a Top 4 seed for March. Goodness knows they've played the schedule to merit it.
16. Rhode Island - Last week we honored USC with our final slot. They rewarded us by sacrificing their hoops program to save Pete Carrol's Golden Goose and banned themselves from post season play. So from here on in, they are similarly banned from Bracketeering. If you aren't going to the Big Dance, then just go away.
This edition's beneficiary? How about the Rams? They are 12-1, and are playing in the Nation's sixth best conference. Yes, the A-10 is clearly better than the Pac-10. Get over it BCS honks.
This Sunday's Temple v. Rhode Island game is one of the first real gems of many in A-10 conference play. After Temple, they get a few easier tests before back-to-back roadies at Xavier and Dayton to end Januaury. By then we'll have a pretty good read on how the A-10 is going to shake out. For now, we give the Rams the nod, but acknowledge Temple, Dayton and Xavier could all win the league, and expect some pressure from Richmond and maybe even Charlotte and George Washington.
Bracket Busts: Some early season disappointments
Cal is a disaster, I've all but given up on the Bears. Oklahoma is approaching that status as well. Seton Hall seemed formidable but is 0-3 in BEast play and is certainly on the ropes. Xavier is disappointing at 9-5, but have taken very few bad losses. They are a 4 or 5 game win streak away from being relevant again. Butler is not in terrible shape, but needs to win their league more than they have in year's past after an unimpressive and uneven non-conference performance.
Is it fair to label Portland a disappointment? Consider that if not for an avalanche of early attention from beating UCLA (who we now know sucks out loud), and a injury/suspension ridden Minnesota team, would anyone have really cared much about the Pilots? Either way, after expectations heightened they responded with losses to Portland State, Idaho, Washington and Nevada. They are not an at-large team anymore, and will need to upset Gonzaga tomorrow to have any life left in their fading chances.
It isn't fair to label these two teams a bust, but I am sure Northwestern and Ohio State were hoping for better conference starts. The good news for Ohio State is Evan Turner's back in plenty of time to save the season. Unfortunately for NW, Kevin Coble is nowhere in sight and things are looking bleak for ending the most famous tourney drought in the country.
Half Court Heaves: Teams outside the common radar worth keeping an eye on
I usually just list the teams you may not have heard of, this week we include a few more teams from power conferences that have a good chance to contend for a bid. My near-locks are bolded. Teams that are strong enough that they could mess things up by losing the conference tourney and swiping a possible at-large are italicized.
Miami, Florida State, Pitt, Louisville, Georgetown, Virginia Tech, North Carolina, Vermont, Richmond, Xavier, Dayton, Ohio State, Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, Northern Colorado, Denver, Marquette, Cincinnati, Notre Dame, Coastal Carliona, Baylor, Texas Tech, Oklahoma State, Texas A&M, William & Mary, Old Dominion, UAB, Tulsa, Memphis, Butler, Cornell, Harvard, Siena, BYU, San Diego State, UNLV, New Mexico, Murray State, Washington, Washington State, Tennessee, Florida, Mississippi State, Vanderbilt, Western Carolina, Texas San-Antonio, St. Mary's, Louisiana Tech (though very doubtful they snag an at-large judging by historical WAC results)
For our neophytes, a quick synopsis of the methodology employed here: 1. We do not care about the AP and coaches poll, wins and losses do not move you up or down a prescribed number of slots. 2. We do our best to weigh both performance, but also a little predictive nature as well, meaning not just what you have done, but also waht our eyes tell us you can do. 3. You are welcome to piss, moan and complain about our rankings. We enjoy the emails, and have learned several new creatives profanities from you. So, Mazel Tov, and Happy New Year.
Enjoy the decade's first edition of Bracketeering.
FINAL FOUR:
1. Texas - I definitely flirted with dropping the Horns this week after a few somnambulistic performances against UT Corpus Christi and Arkansas. However, don't most good team go through a few little lulls here and there, especially in games against lesser competition? What I do know is that when the big boys came to play, the Horns beat 'em by double digits. They win a lot of games late, if for no other reason than they have tremendous depth. The general fan is more familiar with the names on Kansas and Kentucky's rosters, but the Horns are ten deep, athletic and balanced. For now - they keep our top slot once again.
2. Kansas - Some people will overreact to the close call at home against Cornell, but not us. The Red are good. Even better? The stern test of the Jayhawks before the rigors of confere4nce play commence. It has been a long time since they were tested. It is good to find out who your Alpha Dog is before everything is on the line in March. And if there was any doubt, there is no longer. It's Sherron Collins. His numbers aren't spectacular; and therein lies his greatest strength on my POY ballot. He is assimilating all the talent available with aplomb, and gives them everything you want from a PG who will be contending for a National Title. So, yeah, I've come around on Collins.Oh, and the dismantling of a good Temple team on the road was as brilliant as a team has played this year. Not this team. Any team.
3. Purdue - I'm starting to really love this team. They share the ball better than any team in the nation, and remind me a lot of the 2006-2007 Gator squad. They have good players with clearly, and perfectly defined roles. They have NBA talent with Johnson, Hummel and E'Twan Moore. They have the best glue guy in country in Chris Kramer and have a functional bench. They are not more talented per se than our #4 team, but gut instict tells me they are a little better as a team.
This is a huge "show me" stretch coming up for the Boilers with a trip to the Kohl Center tomorrow (where the Badgers have already beaten Duke) and a visit from the once again Evan Turner-led Buckeyes on Tuesday. Win both? Final Four talk has to heat up beyond Boiling in West Lafayette.
4. Kentucky - Fourth? Last week I have them #2, they handle Louisville, I write a "Run the Table" column...and now drop them to fourth? It's not an indictment of the Cats, it's simply that Kansas and Purdue looked brilliant the past week, and the Cats are still a little more potential than polish. That said, with Wall and Cousins blossoming more every week, it is getting harder and harder to see this team not making the short drive to Indy this April. Think there'd be a few Cat fans there??
ELITE EIGHT:
5. Duke - I'm getting less and less gun shy about my take on the Devils everytime I see them play...but still have an ounce of trepidation after the way they eveaporated in conference play and the tourney. That said, they are number 5...and then there is a drop. I'd be comfortable with them in the Final Five is such a thing existed.Is there a classier act in college hoops than Coach K? The Dukies played a neutral court game with Iowa State in their annual tradition of bringing a game to a veteran player's hometown to play in front of friends and family. This time, John Scheyer did not disappoint, playing brilliantly and continuing his surprising First Team All-American campaign (and yes, he would have my vote once my ballot arrives....waiting...hmmm....)
6. Syracuse - Perhaps the loss to Pitt wasn't so bad in retrospect? We'll know more in a few weeks. What I do know, is that aside from that blip (where I thought Pitt just caught fire from behind the arc against the zone), they've looked like a Final Four caliber team. Great guard play, an All-American swingman in Wesley Johnson and some bangers underneath. Still love this team, and the bounce back win over Memphis shows me they are mentally tough as well.
7. West Virginia - Losing to Purdue is not a big deal. They should have lost to Marquette, but didn't. That said, this team has loads of talent and is dangerous. They are seventh, but I think I'd prefer to have them eighth, and leave the seventh slot open. There is that clear of a gap between the Top Six so far this season and the rest of the pack. Let's see if the 'Eers can maintain their focus and win two they should (Notre Dame and USF) before hosting Syracuse next weekend.
8.Kansas State - The Wildcats are just kind of hovering for the time being. I'm not sure they are the 8th best team in the country but am looking forward to getting a read on them this weekend with a trip to Missouri and a Tuesday visit from Texas A&M. Oh, and there's a little trip from Texas next weekend as well...
Sweet and lurking: The next tier
9. Michigan State - Is the run starting? It usually comes around February, until next thing you know, the Spartans are the dangerous #2 seed no one wants in their Region. The difference this year? They were as high as #2 in many national polls until a few early losses knocked them off the radar. The solid win over Wisconsin was impressive. Although there are no "gimmes" in the Big Ten (save for Iowa) their next seven games are all realistically "should wins" with the possible exception of a trip to Minnesota. Expect the Spartans to be right in the thivk of the Big Ten race when an exciting pair of games with Purdue rolls around this February.
10. Ole Miss - Maybe a little high considering the two losses are to upper echelon Big East teams, Villanova and West Virginia, which could suggest they are not a top tier team. Their inside play is uneven at best and not always pretty to watch. However, the old axiom that guard play wins in the tourney bodes well for Ole Miss who boasts the most underrated backcourt in the country.
11. Villanova - Wow, it seems like the #11 hole is where we weekly bury the upcoming prospects of some unsuspecting mid-major. Last edition we offered Temple up to the basketball Gods, only to have them sacrificed on the Jayhawks alter. This week, we flirted with a few of our mid-major darlings, but were compelled to concede the spot belongs to Villanova. I think it is becoming my silent accidental bias, but I am just never sold on these guys, despite the tourney success every year with Scottie Reynolds and Jay Wright. I am curious to see how they handle a visit from tough luck 1-2 Marquette and their trip to Louisville on Tuesday.
12. Connecticut - They have three losses by a combined total of fourteen points. The losses: Duke, Kentucky and at Cincinnati. They have a few holes, but much like Carolina I would be fearful of this team in March. They have one of the highest ceilings of any Big East team.
13. Northern Iowa - Yeah, I'm aware they are unranked in the polls. That's because most voters don't realize that good basketball happens outside the Big Six conferences, Memphis and Gonzaga. The Missouri Valley is consistently incredibly balanced and good. The Panthers are 4-0 in league play with wins over three of the top challengers (all by comfortable margins); Southern Illinois, Creighton and Missouri State. They have a tricky trip to Illinois State tomorrow (which I have probably effectively hexed them in...)
14. Wake Forest - I'm not sure why we all collectively forgot about the Deac's heading into this season. Sure, they miss early entries Johnson and Teague, but still have All-American candidate Al-Farouq Aminu dominating the paint. Admittedly this spot could have just as easily gone to Miami, Florida State, North Carolina (who I refuse to give up on!) and possibly even Virginia Tech. However, I give Wake the nod after completing a month without a loss that included wins over Gonzaga, NC State, Richmond and Xavier.The Demon Deacons have a tough stretch with a trip to Miami tomorrow, a visit from Maryland Tuesday, then consecutive trips to Durham and Chapel Hill.
So in all likliehood, we have also put a well-timed hex on Wake! That said, go 2-2, and life is fine. Emerge 3-1 and this spot is more than well earned; it's too low.
15. Gonzaga - We are officially absolving them for the Duke disaster, figuring they are not the first or the last team to get humiliated on a bad day against the Dukies. They followed it up by winning at Oklahoma and at Illinois. Let's see how they handle the next, and most difficult remaining, stretch of the season: AT Portland tomorrow, AT St Mary's on Tuesday and AT San Diego next weekend. Win those three and they grab the improved WCC by the throat and can begin focusing on earning a Top 4 seed for March. Goodness knows they've played the schedule to merit it.
16. Rhode Island - Last week we honored USC with our final slot. They rewarded us by sacrificing their hoops program to save Pete Carrol's Golden Goose and banned themselves from post season play. So from here on in, they are similarly banned from Bracketeering. If you aren't going to the Big Dance, then just go away.
This edition's beneficiary? How about the Rams? They are 12-1, and are playing in the Nation's sixth best conference. Yes, the A-10 is clearly better than the Pac-10. Get over it BCS honks.
This Sunday's Temple v. Rhode Island game is one of the first real gems of many in A-10 conference play. After Temple, they get a few easier tests before back-to-back roadies at Xavier and Dayton to end Januaury. By then we'll have a pretty good read on how the A-10 is going to shake out. For now, we give the Rams the nod, but acknowledge Temple, Dayton and Xavier could all win the league, and expect some pressure from Richmond and maybe even Charlotte and George Washington.
Bracket Busts: Some early season disappointments
Cal is a disaster, I've all but given up on the Bears. Oklahoma is approaching that status as well. Seton Hall seemed formidable but is 0-3 in BEast play and is certainly on the ropes. Xavier is disappointing at 9-5, but have taken very few bad losses. They are a 4 or 5 game win streak away from being relevant again. Butler is not in terrible shape, but needs to win their league more than they have in year's past after an unimpressive and uneven non-conference performance.
Is it fair to label Portland a disappointment? Consider that if not for an avalanche of early attention from beating UCLA (who we now know sucks out loud), and a injury/suspension ridden Minnesota team, would anyone have really cared much about the Pilots? Either way, after expectations heightened they responded with losses to Portland State, Idaho, Washington and Nevada. They are not an at-large team anymore, and will need to upset Gonzaga tomorrow to have any life left in their fading chances.
It isn't fair to label these two teams a bust, but I am sure Northwestern and Ohio State were hoping for better conference starts. The good news for Ohio State is Evan Turner's back in plenty of time to save the season. Unfortunately for NW, Kevin Coble is nowhere in sight and things are looking bleak for ending the most famous tourney drought in the country.
Half Court Heaves: Teams outside the common radar worth keeping an eye on
I usually just list the teams you may not have heard of, this week we include a few more teams from power conferences that have a good chance to contend for a bid. My near-locks are bolded. Teams that are strong enough that they could mess things up by losing the conference tourney and swiping a possible at-large are italicized.
Miami, Florida State, Pitt, Louisville, Georgetown, Virginia Tech, North Carolina, Vermont, Richmond, Xavier, Dayton, Ohio State, Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, Northern Colorado, Denver, Marquette, Cincinnati, Notre Dame, Coastal Carliona, Baylor, Texas Tech, Oklahoma State, Texas A&M, William & Mary, Old Dominion, UAB, Tulsa, Memphis, Butler, Cornell, Harvard, Siena, BYU, San Diego State, UNLV, New Mexico, Murray State, Washington, Washington State, Tennessee, Florida, Mississippi State, Vanderbilt, Western Carolina, Texas San-Antonio, St. Mary's, Louisiana Tech (though very doubtful they snag an at-large judging by historical WAC results)
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Big Chance for the Big Ten
It has been widely covered this week how the Big Ten has never beaten the ACC in the Challenge. I found that surprising, given the ACC's recent top-heaviness, but am not stunned. Regardless, this year seems to be the Big Ten's chance to break through.
Here is a guide to this week's games:
MONDAY: Penn State def. Virginia - Not surprising as Penn State is as strong as any 8th or 9th place team in any normal size (BEast excluded) conference in America. It's a good start for the Ten.
TUESDAY: A really good slate of games highlighted by Michigan State's trip to UNC at 9PM (ESPN HD). The undercard isn't bad either with Wake @ Purdue, Northwestern at NC State, Maryland @ Indiana, and Iowa @ Virginia Tech.
I am not sure exactly how the matchups are determined, but Maryland v. Indiana seems an odd mismatch, with IU being figured no higher than 9th (probably 10th or 11th) in the Big Ten. When your predicted finish is lower than the number of teams in the NAME OF YOUR LEAGUE it is not going to be a real banner season. Ditto for Iowa, the only team scraping the bottom with Indiana. Their draw of VA Tech seems a bit ambitious as well.
MANIAC'S PICKS: Purdue, Maryland, VA Tech, Northwestern in a surprise, and North Carolina continuing to haunt Izzo and the Spartans; this time with a nearly entirely new cast...
WEDNESDAY: More great action starts at 7PM with Illinois trying to stabilize a disappointing start with a win at Clemson. Other games in the early going feature Minnesota @ Miami, and Boston College @ Michigan. The late games are two really good ones when Duke tries to do what very few have recently; win at the Kohl Center against the Badgers, and Florida State visiting Evan Turner and the Ohio State Buckeyes.
MANIAC'S PICKS: Clemson, Miami (FL), Michigan, Duke and Ohio State.
FINAL TALLY: ACC gets 'em again, by a close 6-5 margin.
Here is a guide to this week's games:
MONDAY: Penn State def. Virginia - Not surprising as Penn State is as strong as any 8th or 9th place team in any normal size (BEast excluded) conference in America. It's a good start for the Ten.
TUESDAY: A really good slate of games highlighted by Michigan State's trip to UNC at 9PM (ESPN HD). The undercard isn't bad either with Wake @ Purdue, Northwestern at NC State, Maryland @ Indiana, and Iowa @ Virginia Tech.
I am not sure exactly how the matchups are determined, but Maryland v. Indiana seems an odd mismatch, with IU being figured no higher than 9th (probably 10th or 11th) in the Big Ten. When your predicted finish is lower than the number of teams in the NAME OF YOUR LEAGUE it is not going to be a real banner season. Ditto for Iowa, the only team scraping the bottom with Indiana. Their draw of VA Tech seems a bit ambitious as well.
MANIAC'S PICKS: Purdue, Maryland, VA Tech, Northwestern in a surprise, and North Carolina continuing to haunt Izzo and the Spartans; this time with a nearly entirely new cast...
WEDNESDAY: More great action starts at 7PM with Illinois trying to stabilize a disappointing start with a win at Clemson. Other games in the early going feature Minnesota @ Miami, and Boston College @ Michigan. The late games are two really good ones when Duke tries to do what very few have recently; win at the Kohl Center against the Badgers, and Florida State visiting Evan Turner and the Ohio State Buckeyes.
MANIAC'S PICKS: Clemson, Miami (FL), Michigan, Duke and Ohio State.
FINAL TALLY: ACC gets 'em again, by a close 6-5 margin.
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Anonymous "Signature"
The phrase de' jour this season in college hoops is "signature win." Everyone needs to have their "signature win." Providence got theirs this week beating Pitt. Cincinnati lacks one, and it will likely be their bubble popping lest they win tonight against West Virginia. Maryland got theirs this weekend taking down Carolina in overtime; ditto for BC's bookend wins over Duke and the aforementioned Heels.
But at what point does the "signature" begin to fade?? Last night ESPN threw up a graphic of the "signature wins" for the ACC's bottom six teams. FOUR of them read "Wake Forest."
Leading me to question....
Just a thought. I don't hate Wake, just think they have gotten more mileage out of the timing of when they won more than any team in the nation. Their resume, is quite comparable to a lot of teams ranked 15-25, only they didn't lose out of conference (nor did they beat anyone other than BYU). So what exactly does a "signature win" entail??
Anyhow, several teams will be seeking their "signature wins" this week as we franticly race towards Selection Sunday:
Thursday:
West Virginia @ Cincinnati - Cincy needs a win over Huggs to stay alive
Minnesota @ Illinois - Gophers in danger of sliding onto..and off the bubble
Memphis @ UAB (9pm) - Darth Vaden needs to strike back in a major way to keep the Blazers slim at-large hopes alive
USC @ Cal - Last gasp for USC as well tonight at Cal
Saturday:
Clemson @ Florida State (2pm) - big game for both seeding-wise
Notre Dame @ UConn (2pm) - Do or die for the Irish...again.
Illinois St @ Creighton (2pm) - Great game; Jays can not afford any losses before MVC title game to snag an at-large bid
Arizona @ Washington - Win for 'Cats takes them from "bubble" to "lock" status
Duke @ VA Tech - Hokies got big win at Clemson, a win over Duke might put them in the Dance
LSU @ Kentucky (4pm) - Kentucky is in danger of playing themselves out of the tourney
Utah @ BYU - One would think both teams are safely in, but the winner removes all doubt
Utah St @ Nevada - The Aggies are 25-3, and still not quite a lock, they can ill-afford to give away another L and be safely in.
But at what point does the "signature" begin to fade?? Last night ESPN threw up a graphic of the "signature wins" for the ACC's bottom six teams. FOUR of them read "Wake Forest."
Leading me to question....
Just a thought. I don't hate Wake, just think they have gotten more mileage out of the timing of when they won more than any team in the nation. Their resume, is quite comparable to a lot of teams ranked 15-25, only they didn't lose out of conference (nor did they beat anyone other than BYU). So what exactly does a "signature win" entail??
Anyhow, several teams will be seeking their "signature wins" this week as we franticly race towards Selection Sunday:
Thursday:
West Virginia @ Cincinnati - Cincy needs a win over Huggs to stay alive
Minnesota @ Illinois - Gophers in danger of sliding onto..and off the bubble
Memphis @ UAB (9pm) - Darth Vaden needs to strike back in a major way to keep the Blazers slim at-large hopes alive
USC @ Cal - Last gasp for USC as well tonight at Cal
Saturday:
Clemson @ Florida State (2pm) - big game for both seeding-wise
Notre Dame @ UConn (2pm) - Do or die for the Irish...again.
Illinois St @ Creighton (2pm) - Great game; Jays can not afford any losses before MVC title game to snag an at-large bid
Arizona @ Washington - Win for 'Cats takes them from "bubble" to "lock" status
Duke @ VA Tech - Hokies got big win at Clemson, a win over Duke might put them in the Dance
LSU @ Kentucky (4pm) - Kentucky is in danger of playing themselves out of the tourney
Utah @ BYU - One would think both teams are safely in, but the winner removes all doubt
Utah St @ Nevada - The Aggies are 25-3, and still not quite a lock, they can ill-afford to give away another L and be safely in.
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Updating Your Portfolio - Pt 1
Just three weeks remain in the regular season, including conference tournaments and the 34 at large teams are starting to come a little more in focus.
Here is a stock report on the AP Top 25 poll:
#1 UConn - Hold. It remains to be seen how dire the impact of Dyson is to the Huskies. The Pitt loss was simply that; a loss to a very good Pitt team in a very hyped TV contest. Most of the nation wasn't tuning in when Villanova handled the Pathers easily a few weeks ago, ergo no "the sky is falling" talk had to be endured. Both Pitt and UConn are "Holds" as they are clearly two of the five best teams in the country.
#2 Oklahoma -BUY. This team is peaking and growing at the right time. Blake Griffin is the National POY, but the Sooners have more than that going for them. Wille Warren is the most complete freshman in the country right now and runs the team superbly. Austin Johnson has been filling it up and Taylor Griffin is a solid role player. They have flown pretty under the radar for a team that is about to become the #1 team in the nation on Monday, but make no mistake, the Sooners are legit.
#3 North Carolina - BUY. Still the best team in the country when they come to play. If you are scoring at home, they have done just that for 10 straight games now in the nation's deepest and most balanced conference.
#4 Pitt - HOLD. See above. Tons of talent, tons of toughness, but also tons of other years we have written the exact same thing about Pitt. Not knocking this team, it's just...show me in March...
#5 Memphis - SELL. Nothing like an abysmal schedule to shine over a few weaknesses. Yes, you still have to win the games on your schedule, but I am not buying that a Memphis team that was unranked four weeks ago is suddenly the 5th best team in the nation after fatteneing up on the C-USA. The Gonzaga win was an impressive one, but again, still not sure this is the 5th best team in the country.
#6 Michigan State - HOLD. Purdue handed them their can last night, and exposed some of the Spartans shooting weaknesses. That said, they have depth, quickness and toughness...and Coach Izzo. I liked them a little more in the underdog role, but still think this team could make some noise in March.
#7 Louisville - BUY. The Cards might have had the strangest week in the country; losing by 35 to Notre Dame, then winning by 40+ over DePaul. Let's erase that ND game, or at least file it as evidence that the Cards are capable of lapses. Then again, with the exception of Oklahoma, everyone else has proven the same thing this season. At the end of the day, gimme the talent, athleticism and Pitino in March.
#8. Wake Forest - SELL. Has anyone else noticed the Deacons are only 6-4 in conference? Their lone non-conference wins of note are BYU and Baylor. This is a good ball club, not a great one. I think getting much further than the first weekend is a stretch for this year's squad (though easily Top 5 pre-season 2010 if everyone stays.)
#9. Duke - BUY. While everyone else is selling the Blue Devils like crazy, the Maniac continues to hold. The Clemson loss was disconcerting for sure, but nearly every team takes one or two of those through the course of the season. With the emergence of Henderson this team has offensive options like very few others. If they can find someway to steady the PG play and get Singler some help on the boards, they can still make a Final Four run.
#10. Marquette - SELL. The Maniac has been warning you about the Eagles final five games for about two months now. Starting this week, we will find out if he was right. They are a sure fire 2-3 seed right now, don't be surprised if it is a 5-6 in three weeks...
#11. Missouri - HOLD. I have been touting them all year and saying how underrated the Tigers were... but at #11 we might have reached our apex here. No possible way this is a Final Four team, but getting out of the first weekend would still be a nice accomplishment given preseason expectations.
#12. Villanova - BUY. Not only have the Wildcats impressed with their five game win streak over Syracuse, Cincy, Pitt, Providence and Marquette (yes, they JUST lost to WVU), but they also have a finishing schedule that should be at least a 4-2 or even a 5-1 finish. That puts them well aligned for a 3 or 4 seed come tourney time. I love teams that have a lot of offensive weapons, but who know who their go-to scorer is come crunch time. Scottie Reynolds does, and has, filled that role for quite a while in Phily.
Teams #13-#25 tomorrow.
Here is a stock report on the AP Top 25 poll:
#1 UConn - Hold. It remains to be seen how dire the impact of Dyson is to the Huskies. The Pitt loss was simply that; a loss to a very good Pitt team in a very hyped TV contest. Most of the nation wasn't tuning in when Villanova handled the Pathers easily a few weeks ago, ergo no "the sky is falling" talk had to be endured. Both Pitt and UConn are "Holds" as they are clearly two of the five best teams in the country.
#2 Oklahoma -BUY. This team is peaking and growing at the right time. Blake Griffin is the National POY, but the Sooners have more than that going for them. Wille Warren is the most complete freshman in the country right now and runs the team superbly. Austin Johnson has been filling it up and Taylor Griffin is a solid role player. They have flown pretty under the radar for a team that is about to become the #1 team in the nation on Monday, but make no mistake, the Sooners are legit.
#3 North Carolina - BUY. Still the best team in the country when they come to play. If you are scoring at home, they have done just that for 10 straight games now in the nation's deepest and most balanced conference.
#4 Pitt - HOLD. See above. Tons of talent, tons of toughness, but also tons of other years we have written the exact same thing about Pitt. Not knocking this team, it's just...show me in March...
#5 Memphis - SELL. Nothing like an abysmal schedule to shine over a few weaknesses. Yes, you still have to win the games on your schedule, but I am not buying that a Memphis team that was unranked four weeks ago is suddenly the 5th best team in the nation after fatteneing up on the C-USA. The Gonzaga win was an impressive one, but again, still not sure this is the 5th best team in the country.
#6 Michigan State - HOLD. Purdue handed them their can last night, and exposed some of the Spartans shooting weaknesses. That said, they have depth, quickness and toughness...and Coach Izzo. I liked them a little more in the underdog role, but still think this team could make some noise in March.
#7 Louisville - BUY. The Cards might have had the strangest week in the country; losing by 35 to Notre Dame, then winning by 40+ over DePaul. Let's erase that ND game, or at least file it as evidence that the Cards are capable of lapses. Then again, with the exception of Oklahoma, everyone else has proven the same thing this season. At the end of the day, gimme the talent, athleticism and Pitino in March.
#8. Wake Forest - SELL. Has anyone else noticed the Deacons are only 6-4 in conference? Their lone non-conference wins of note are BYU and Baylor. This is a good ball club, not a great one. I think getting much further than the first weekend is a stretch for this year's squad (though easily Top 5 pre-season 2010 if everyone stays.)
#9. Duke - BUY. While everyone else is selling the Blue Devils like crazy, the Maniac continues to hold. The Clemson loss was disconcerting for sure, but nearly every team takes one or two of those through the course of the season. With the emergence of Henderson this team has offensive options like very few others. If they can find someway to steady the PG play and get Singler some help on the boards, they can still make a Final Four run.
#10. Marquette - SELL. The Maniac has been warning you about the Eagles final five games for about two months now. Starting this week, we will find out if he was right. They are a sure fire 2-3 seed right now, don't be surprised if it is a 5-6 in three weeks...
#11. Missouri - HOLD. I have been touting them all year and saying how underrated the Tigers were... but at #11 we might have reached our apex here. No possible way this is a Final Four team, but getting out of the first weekend would still be a nice accomplishment given preseason expectations.
#12. Villanova - BUY. Not only have the Wildcats impressed with their five game win streak over Syracuse, Cincy, Pitt, Providence and Marquette (yes, they JUST lost to WVU), but they also have a finishing schedule that should be at least a 4-2 or even a 5-1 finish. That puts them well aligned for a 3 or 4 seed come tourney time. I love teams that have a lot of offensive weapons, but who know who their go-to scorer is come crunch time. Scottie Reynolds does, and has, filled that role for quite a while in Phily.
Teams #13-#25 tomorrow.
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Making Sense of the ACC
To say it has been a tumultuous week in the ACC might be a bit of an understatement. Going into tonight, Eight teams have five or less losses. UNC leads the pack with only two. The other seven? Separated by just one game.
Most pundits say there are four locks and five battling for three, maybe four spots.
Let me give you a couple of resumes for comparison, you tell me the lock and the bubble team.
The first team is 6-4 in ACC play. Their non-conference highlights include wins over BYU and Baylor. The other 11 are not in the top 100 RPI.
The second team is also 6-4 in ACC play. Their non conference resume includes wins over Cincinnati, Florida, and Cal. They lost to Northwestern and Pitt.
The two teams? Wake Forest and Florida State. Granted, Wake has beaten Duke, Carolina and the aforementioned Seminoles, but still is an example of the proven formula for tourney births in major conferences: Stay home in December, play one or two real games to "get ready" for conference play and win nine or ten in league play.
If the Noles finish in a similar tie in conference play, lets hope a few quality losses don't diminish a strong body of work when the committee sits down to pick dancers.
The Maniac's ACC Shake Down:
UNC (#1 seed)
Duke (#2)
Wake (#4)
Clemson (#4)
FSU (#5)
Va Tech (#8)
BC (#9)
Maryland (#12 - barely)
Miami - NIT
NC State - NIT
Georgia Tech - OUT
UVA - OUT
Big games this week:
Clemson @ Maryland (tonight) - Maryland is clinging on the very definition of the bubble. Clemson is playing for a high seed and an outside shot at an ACC title (ok, very outside). The Terps and Gary Williams may very well be playing for their lives tonight.
Florida State @ VA Tech (Sat.) - Two teams vying for inclusion in the "ACC Elite" club that seems to always be listed as four deep this year. The winner slides into their company, the loser remains in the bubble mix with BC, Maryland and Miami (longshot bubble inclusion).
Most pundits say there are four locks and five battling for three, maybe four spots.
Let me give you a couple of resumes for comparison, you tell me the lock and the bubble team.
The first team is 6-4 in ACC play. Their non-conference highlights include wins over BYU and Baylor. The other 11 are not in the top 100 RPI.
The second team is also 6-4 in ACC play. Their non conference resume includes wins over Cincinnati, Florida, and Cal. They lost to Northwestern and Pitt.
The two teams? Wake Forest and Florida State. Granted, Wake has beaten Duke, Carolina and the aforementioned Seminoles, but still is an example of the proven formula for tourney births in major conferences: Stay home in December, play one or two real games to "get ready" for conference play and win nine or ten in league play.
If the Noles finish in a similar tie in conference play, lets hope a few quality losses don't diminish a strong body of work when the committee sits down to pick dancers.
The Maniac's ACC Shake Down:
UNC (#1 seed)
Duke (#2)
Wake (#4)
Clemson (#4)
FSU (#5)
Va Tech (#8)
BC (#9)
Maryland (#12 - barely)
Miami - NIT
NC State - NIT
Georgia Tech - OUT
UVA - OUT
Big games this week:
Clemson @ Maryland (tonight) - Maryland is clinging on the very definition of the bubble. Clemson is playing for a high seed and an outside shot at an ACC title (ok, very outside). The Terps and Gary Williams may very well be playing for their lives tonight.
Florida State @ VA Tech (Sat.) - Two teams vying for inclusion in the "ACC Elite" club that seems to always be listed as four deep this year. The winner slides into their company, the loser remains in the bubble mix with BC, Maryland and Miami (longshot bubble inclusion).
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Big Game Rundown - Wednesday Feb 4th
We are entering the final month of the regular season, and things are starting to take shape in the Big 6 conferences. Several teams have disappointed, but no one the experts were banking on to dance has eliminated themselves from the possibility (Notre Dame and Arizona need to win this week though...).
More than misfires, we have had a nice crop of pleasant surprises. Whether teams like Penn State, Providence and Northwestern can finish strong remains to be seen, but I imagine their fan bases can not be too disappointed with the seasons they are turning in.
Here are the biggest games that impact the bubble and seeding taking place Wednesday.
West Virginia heads to the Carrier Dome in a huge Big East battle. The Mountaineers are 4-4, while the 'Cuse is 5-4 in conference play. Neither one can feel too comfortable in their Top 8 position with Notre Dame and Georgetown lurking just a game behind. The winner tonight moves closer to locking up a dance card, the loser slides onto the bubble.
Notre Dame visits the Bearcats in the Queen City in an even more precarious game for both squads. The loser of this game (particularly if it is UC) is all but eliminated from tourney thoughts. Notre Dame is 3-6 in conference and 12-8 overall. A loss at Cincinnati would leave them with very little room for error. It is possible for a Big East team to slide into the tourney at 8-10 in conference. However, after UC, Notre Dame still has trips to UConn, West Virginia and Providence, as well as home games with Lousiville and Villanova. Throw in a non-conference trip to UCLA and it is getting late pretty early for the Irish.
Harangody needs some help to get the Irish dancing...
Wake Forest looks to rebound from their surprising loss at Georgia Tech with a trip to Miami. The Canes were ranked the first month of the season but are on the wrong side of the bubble as of today. A win over the Deac's could get them back on track to make a late season-saving push.
Utah visits TCU in a good Mountain West battle. Several polls have the Utes as one of the last teams IN the tourney. TCU has a smaller reputation but a similar profile and trails the Utes (and everyone else) by only one game at 4-3. Big game to see if the teams can start to seperate a little in the MWC.
Ok Providence, are you for real? If so, bring your A game when Villanova comes calling tomorrow night. Tournament teams defend their home court. Another blowout loss to one of the Big East Big Boys will crush their image (and really help Georgetown and Notre Dame move back into spots #8 & #9 respectively).
Tennessee once again looks like the best team in the SEC and the most legitimate threat to well-represent the conference in March. Arkansas has done dreadfully in conference play but seems to bring its best for the best teams. They better tomorrow night, as their spot on the "bubble list" is more just a shot in the dark since they own two colossal non-conference wins. All other signs point to NIT or worse...
Minnesota at Michigan State has nothing to do with making the tourney, rather it has national ranking and Big Ten champion implications. Michigan State has been surprisingly vulnerable at home, losing to both Penn State and Northwestern. With the Purdue loss tonight, a Gopher win puts them as part of the big log jam at the top.
And for your viewing pleasure, tune in at 9pm (with the TV muted) for the Clemson v Duke game. Clemson is legitmatly deserving of their #10 ranking at 18-2 with several quality wins. However, when I say "Clemson" what is the first thing you think of? Exactly. Hammered by Wake, Humiliated (intentially improperly capitalized) by Carolina.
It is hard to imagine the committee has different first impressions either. Clemson can do a lot to cement their reputation in either direction tomorrow night.
Can Clemson earn some respect against the Dookies?
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More than misfires, we have had a nice crop of pleasant surprises. Whether teams like Penn State, Providence and Northwestern can finish strong remains to be seen, but I imagine their fan bases can not be too disappointed with the seasons they are turning in.
Here are the biggest games that impact the bubble and seeding taking place Wednesday.
West Virginia heads to the Carrier Dome in a huge Big East battle. The Mountaineers are 4-4, while the 'Cuse is 5-4 in conference play. Neither one can feel too comfortable in their Top 8 position with Notre Dame and Georgetown lurking just a game behind. The winner tonight moves closer to locking up a dance card, the loser slides onto the bubble.
Notre Dame visits the Bearcats in the Queen City in an even more precarious game for both squads. The loser of this game (particularly if it is UC) is all but eliminated from tourney thoughts. Notre Dame is 3-6 in conference and 12-8 overall. A loss at Cincinnati would leave them with very little room for error. It is possible for a Big East team to slide into the tourney at 8-10 in conference. However, after UC, Notre Dame still has trips to UConn, West Virginia and Providence, as well as home games with Lousiville and Villanova. Throw in a non-conference trip to UCLA and it is getting late pretty early for the Irish.
Harangody needs some help to get the Irish dancing...Wake Forest looks to rebound from their surprising loss at Georgia Tech with a trip to Miami. The Canes were ranked the first month of the season but are on the wrong side of the bubble as of today. A win over the Deac's could get them back on track to make a late season-saving push.
Utah visits TCU in a good Mountain West battle. Several polls have the Utes as one of the last teams IN the tourney. TCU has a smaller reputation but a similar profile and trails the Utes (and everyone else) by only one game at 4-3. Big game to see if the teams can start to seperate a little in the MWC.
Ok Providence, are you for real? If so, bring your A game when Villanova comes calling tomorrow night. Tournament teams defend their home court. Another blowout loss to one of the Big East Big Boys will crush their image (and really help Georgetown and Notre Dame move back into spots #8 & #9 respectively).
Tennessee once again looks like the best team in the SEC and the most legitimate threat to well-represent the conference in March. Arkansas has done dreadfully in conference play but seems to bring its best for the best teams. They better tomorrow night, as their spot on the "bubble list" is more just a shot in the dark since they own two colossal non-conference wins. All other signs point to NIT or worse...
Minnesota at Michigan State has nothing to do with making the tourney, rather it has national ranking and Big Ten champion implications. Michigan State has been surprisingly vulnerable at home, losing to both Penn State and Northwestern. With the Purdue loss tonight, a Gopher win puts them as part of the big log jam at the top.
And for your viewing pleasure, tune in at 9pm (with the TV muted) for the Clemson v Duke game. Clemson is legitmatly deserving of their #10 ranking at 18-2 with several quality wins. However, when I say "Clemson" what is the first thing you think of? Exactly. Hammered by Wake, Humiliated (intentially improperly capitalized) by Carolina.
It is hard to imagine the committee has different first impressions either. Clemson can do a lot to cement their reputation in either direction tomorrow night.
Can Clemson earn some respect against the Dookies?The most underrated game of the night from a national perspective in the Battle for LA tomorrow night. UCLA and USC might be the two most talented teams in the Pac 10. SC fell off the radar early with a few losses, but is in good shape getting to the tourney. This game is about more than seeding and standings.
Two Big Big 12 games as well; Oklahoma hosts a reeling Texas A&M squad, while Missouri looks to move from "interesting tourney contender" to "lock" by knocking off the Longhorns in Austin. Texas seems to continue to be forgiven by the pollsters, but reall can't afford too many more "bad" lossess if they have legitimate hopes of earning a Top 4 seed in March.
Great slate of games, for complete BUBBLE IMPACT - visit our sister site (in progress) at TheThirtyFour.com
Two Big Big 12 games as well; Oklahoma hosts a reeling Texas A&M squad, while Missouri looks to move from "interesting tourney contender" to "lock" by knocking off the Longhorns in Austin. Texas seems to continue to be forgiven by the pollsters, but reall can't afford too many more "bad" lossess if they have legitimate hopes of earning a Top 4 seed in March.
Great slate of games, for complete BUBBLE IMPACT - visit our sister site (in progress) at TheThirtyFour.com
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Something to Skip For
Great news for Hoops fans as Wake Forest and Xavier announced a ten year deal to play each season in the "Skip Prosser" Classic.
Coach Prosser led both schools to the NCAA Tournament, and coached NBA standouts David West, James Posey and Chris Paul.
The game is great for several reasons: One, Coach Prosser was a great guy and it is a nice way to honor the memory of a coach we lost way too soon. Two, Xavier is on the verge of becoming the next Gonzaga; the "small Jesuit school that always wins, doesn't play in a "major" conference, but is still a cool place to go because I will always win, be on TV and have a shot at the NBA." In order to make that dream come to frution, you need games like this on the schedule.
Good news for Wake. Good news for X. Good news for hoops fans. Thanks Coach Prosser.
Coach Prosser with his star pupil, Chris Paul.
Coach Prosser led both schools to the NCAA Tournament, and coached NBA standouts David West, James Posey and Chris Paul.
The game is great for several reasons: One, Coach Prosser was a great guy and it is a nice way to honor the memory of a coach we lost way too soon. Two, Xavier is on the verge of becoming the next Gonzaga; the "small Jesuit school that always wins, doesn't play in a "major" conference, but is still a cool place to go because I will always win, be on TV and have a shot at the NBA." In order to make that dream come to frution, you need games like this on the schedule.
Good news for Wake. Good news for X. Good news for hoops fans. Thanks Coach Prosser.
Coach Prosser with his star pupil, Chris Paul.Wake Beats Duke in Thriller
Well, the curse of the Maniacs once again rears its ugly head. One night after proclaiming Duke the team to beat, Wake Forest grabs the ACC by the throat with yet another thrilling, well-played win over a conference heavyweight.
I am not real big on the official polls, as they don't mean too too much at this juncture, but it is hard to NOT say Wake is #1 after beating both Duke and Carolina.
One caveat - both games were in the friendly confined of Little John Coliseum. They dodge a rematch at UNC (damn you ACC unbalanced scheduling!) but do travel to Duke on February 22nd, in what should be an absolute treat.
Both teams showed some weaknesses; Wake at the foul line and Duke with an ability to create shots when teams defend the perimeter. But both showed the defensive toughness and individual talent to win a national championship.
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I am not real big on the official polls, as they don't mean too too much at this juncture, but it is hard to NOT say Wake is #1 after beating both Duke and Carolina.
One caveat - both games were in the friendly confined of Little John Coliseum. They dodge a rematch at UNC (damn you ACC unbalanced scheduling!) but do travel to Duke on February 22nd, in what should be an absolute treat.
Both teams showed some weaknesses; Wake at the foul line and Duke with an ability to create shots when teams defend the perimeter. But both showed the defensive toughness and individual talent to win a national championship.
Have something to say?? Leave a comment or email us at MarchManiacs@yahoo.com!
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...
Bracketeering - January 19th
Now is the time of year when things start to get interesting. Every time we think we know something about a team (Minnesota's big win at Wisconsin) we turn around and find out perhaps what we thought isn't true (their subsequent loss to Northwestern). It is the time of year when our eyes become more important than box scores when evaluating teams.
For example, is Carolina's narrow road loss in a fantastically well-played game at Wake an indictment of Carolina's fallibility or simply an illustration that the ACC has three true title contenders?
Is the Big East's carnage proof that the top team are all really really good, or an indication that we may have overstated the Top Nine's "greatness?"
And what to make of the Big Ten? Is it possible that there really are nine good teams in this league, and that 8-8 does not preclude someone from tourney discussion? Penn State and Northwestern have each notched impressive victories in league play, but don't forget their body of work before conference play suggests they are just that; "good wins" and not just "bad losses for those slain.
What do we do with the best of the rest? Xavier, Butler, Memphis and Gonzaga are going to pile up some big win totals before Selection Sunday. How many of those February victories are enough to sway minds of the committee? Only Xavier and Butler has an RPI that correlates with their lofty poll status (#5 and #8 respectively), but we shall see what a full A-10 & Horizon schedule does to drag those numbers down.
There are a huge slate of show-me games over the next few weeks to make some more sense of it all, until then, enjoy this week's edition of Brackeetering.
Feel free to agree, disagree or swear at us anytime. We are only an email or comment away...
For example, is Carolina's narrow road loss in a fantastically well-played game at Wake an indictment of Carolina's fallibility or simply an illustration that the ACC has three true title contenders?
Is the Big East's carnage proof that the top team are all really really good, or an indication that we may have overstated the Top Nine's "greatness?"
And what to make of the Big Ten? Is it possible that there really are nine good teams in this league, and that 8-8 does not preclude someone from tourney discussion? Penn State and Northwestern have each notched impressive victories in league play, but don't forget their body of work before conference play suggests they are just that; "good wins" and not just "bad losses for those slain.
What do we do with the best of the rest? Xavier, Butler, Memphis and Gonzaga are going to pile up some big win totals before Selection Sunday. How many of those February victories are enough to sway minds of the committee? Only Xavier and Butler has an RPI that correlates with their lofty poll status (#5 and #8 respectively), but we shall see what a full A-10 & Horizon schedule does to drag those numbers down.
There are a huge slate of show-me games over the next few weeks to make some more sense of it all, until then, enjoy this week's edition of Brackeetering.
Feel free to agree, disagree or swear at us anytime. We are only an email or comment away...
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FINAL FOUR:
1. Wake Forest - The Deacons survived and thrived in another big test Saturday at Clemson. In the past three weeks they have won at BYU and Clemson and beaten North Carolina. Jeff Teague is making a serious case for first team All-American.
2. Duke - The Dukies beat a better-than-you think FSU team, then followed it up with a solid victory over Georgetown. Another strong case for the ACC as the nation's best league in 2009. We have already set the TiVo for the Jan 28th trip to Wake Forest.
3. Pitt - Yes, the Panthers lost over the weekend at a suddenly resilient Louisville club, but by no means was that a panic button loss. The inability to get quality shots off in the last three minutes was disappointing, but the Panthers rebounded nicely with a pasting of Syracuse.
4. North Carolina - The Tarheels appear to be back on track with their second half demolition of Miami. They host Clemson Wednesday. The Tigers have lost 53 straight at Carolina. Not a typo. 53 straight.
ELITE EIGHT:
5. UConn - The Huskies caught a brief lull in the schedule, but ramp it back up this week playing Villanova and Notre Dame. For some reason, it still feels like something is missing from this UConn squad, but they certainly have Final Four/National Champion talent.
6. Michigan State - The beat keeps on as the Spartans beat two more quality opponents in Penn State and Illinois. This team looks better and better every week.
7. Oklahoma - Oklahoma spanked Texas, then turned around and beat A&M. They are perfectly deserving of a Final Four spot, but no one else fell down. If they can continue to get production from Tyler Griffin and their relatively thin bench, they will be a tough out come March.
8. Louisville - The polls seem to have caught up with March Maniacs. We had the Cards about a half dozen spots high last week, and the Cards rewarded our faith with a big win over #1 Pitt. Terrance Williams has been spectacular, and freshman Samardo Samuels seems to finally be adapting to the college game. This is still one of the two or three most talented teams in the country.
Sweet and lurking: The next tier (in order)
9. Clemson - Wake Forest handled them pretty easily in what had to be a disappointing loss for the Tigers. That memory will be easily wiped away if they can break their 53-game losing streak at the Dean Dome Wednesday.
10. Marquette - The Maniac admits to sleeping a little bit on this Marquette team. Perhaps it is the back-loaded nature of their Big East schedule that left me a little wary. They are 5-0, but only Villanova and WVU are in the "Big Nine." In my opinion, there are 4 giants in this league and Marquette hasn't seen one yet.
That said,their backcourt is probably the best in the nation; James, Lazar and McNeal are as good a trio as you will find. Only Duke and UNC can make an argument against them.
Just something to plant in the back of your mind; the Warriors close with: @ G'town, Louisville, @ UConn, @ Pitt, and Syracuse. (the first four, are in my opinion, the Four Giants). Brutal close, but the kind of finishing schedule that can legitimately earn you a #1 seed. (Not that I think they will...2-3 would be respectable).
From here, things get tough. You can argue each of these teams up or down real easily. It really is a mess from 11-30 this year. Here is my slant, with an argument for each. Feel free to argue with me.
11. UCLA - A home loss to Arizona State isn't totally inexcusable, except that ASU just lost at home to USC. Parity rears it's ugly head in the Pac-10, however I still feel pretty confident that the Bruins are the best out West.
12. Syracuse - Look, 10-6 in that conference is fine. Syracuse is 1-2 on a brutal stretch that still includes Louisville Sunday.
13. Xavier - Again, I think this team is better than they showed against Duke back in December, but all these A-10 wins are just biding time until March. That said, the Muskies notched a good win at Rhode Island (who also gave Duke fits)
14. Georgetown - Another loss this week for the Hoyas, but their losses (Duke, Pitt, Tennessee, Notre Dame) are all reasonable. Even more they are toughening losses come March.
15. Florida - Surprising pick maybe, but it is hard to ignore the entire SEC as much as pollsters have of late. Texas and Arizona State bring 4 losses to their perch, yet the Gators at 16-2 remain unranked. Their two losses? A close neutral-courter to Syracuse and a 2 point loss to Florida State. They have ripped off a dozen in row and Nick Calathes seems to be settling in as a true leader of this club.
16. Butler- You know my stance on Butler. That said, you have to admit their steady focus in what is supposed to be a "down year" is impressive.
Closing In...
Gonzaga, St. Mary's, Cal, Notre Dame, Arizona State, Kentucky, Texas, Illinois, Minnesota, Florida State, Memphis, Villanova, Purdue, Tennessee
Half Court Heaves: Long shots worth keeping an eye on
Siena, VMI, Liberty, George Mason, VCU, UTEP, Davidson, Missouri, Utah St, Illinois St, Penn St, Stephen F. Austin, Illinois St, Creighton
FINAL FOUR:
1. Wake Forest - The Deacons survived and thrived in another big test Saturday at Clemson. In the past three weeks they have won at BYU and Clemson and beaten North Carolina. Jeff Teague is making a serious case for first team All-American.
2. Duke - The Dukies beat a better-than-you think FSU team, then followed it up with a solid victory over Georgetown. Another strong case for the ACC as the nation's best league in 2009. We have already set the TiVo for the Jan 28th trip to Wake Forest.
3. Pitt - Yes, the Panthers lost over the weekend at a suddenly resilient Louisville club, but by no means was that a panic button loss. The inability to get quality shots off in the last three minutes was disappointing, but the Panthers rebounded nicely with a pasting of Syracuse.
4. North Carolina - The Tarheels appear to be back on track with their second half demolition of Miami. They host Clemson Wednesday. The Tigers have lost 53 straight at Carolina. Not a typo. 53 straight.
ELITE EIGHT:
5. UConn - The Huskies caught a brief lull in the schedule, but ramp it back up this week playing Villanova and Notre Dame. For some reason, it still feels like something is missing from this UConn squad, but they certainly have Final Four/National Champion talent.
6. Michigan State - The beat keeps on as the Spartans beat two more quality opponents in Penn State and Illinois. This team looks better and better every week.
7. Oklahoma - Oklahoma spanked Texas, then turned around and beat A&M. They are perfectly deserving of a Final Four spot, but no one else fell down. If they can continue to get production from Tyler Griffin and their relatively thin bench, they will be a tough out come March.
8. Louisville - The polls seem to have caught up with March Maniacs. We had the Cards about a half dozen spots high last week, and the Cards rewarded our faith with a big win over #1 Pitt. Terrance Williams has been spectacular, and freshman Samardo Samuels seems to finally be adapting to the college game. This is still one of the two or three most talented teams in the country.
Sweet and lurking: The next tier (in order)
9. Clemson - Wake Forest handled them pretty easily in what had to be a disappointing loss for the Tigers. That memory will be easily wiped away if they can break their 53-game losing streak at the Dean Dome Wednesday.
10. Marquette - The Maniac admits to sleeping a little bit on this Marquette team. Perhaps it is the back-loaded nature of their Big East schedule that left me a little wary. They are 5-0, but only Villanova and WVU are in the "Big Nine." In my opinion, there are 4 giants in this league and Marquette hasn't seen one yet.
That said,their backcourt is probably the best in the nation; James, Lazar and McNeal are as good a trio as you will find. Only Duke and UNC can make an argument against them.
Just something to plant in the back of your mind; the Warriors close with: @ G'town, Louisville, @ UConn, @ Pitt, and Syracuse. (the first four, are in my opinion, the Four Giants). Brutal close, but the kind of finishing schedule that can legitimately earn you a #1 seed. (Not that I think they will...2-3 would be respectable).
From here, things get tough. You can argue each of these teams up or down real easily. It really is a mess from 11-30 this year. Here is my slant, with an argument for each. Feel free to argue with me.
11. UCLA - A home loss to Arizona State isn't totally inexcusable, except that ASU just lost at home to USC. Parity rears it's ugly head in the Pac-10, however I still feel pretty confident that the Bruins are the best out West.
12. Syracuse - Look, 10-6 in that conference is fine. Syracuse is 1-2 on a brutal stretch that still includes Louisville Sunday.
13. Xavier - Again, I think this team is better than they showed against Duke back in December, but all these A-10 wins are just biding time until March. That said, the Muskies notched a good win at Rhode Island (who also gave Duke fits)
14. Georgetown - Another loss this week for the Hoyas, but their losses (Duke, Pitt, Tennessee, Notre Dame) are all reasonable. Even more they are toughening losses come March.
15. Florida - Surprising pick maybe, but it is hard to ignore the entire SEC as much as pollsters have of late. Texas and Arizona State bring 4 losses to their perch, yet the Gators at 16-2 remain unranked. Their two losses? A close neutral-courter to Syracuse and a 2 point loss to Florida State. They have ripped off a dozen in row and Nick Calathes seems to be settling in as a true leader of this club.
16. Butler- You know my stance on Butler. That said, you have to admit their steady focus in what is supposed to be a "down year" is impressive.
Closing In...
Gonzaga, St. Mary's, Cal, Notre Dame, Arizona State, Kentucky, Texas, Illinois, Minnesota, Florida State, Memphis, Villanova, Purdue, Tennessee
Half Court Heaves: Long shots worth keeping an eye on
Siena, VMI, Liberty, George Mason, VCU, UTEP, Davidson, Missouri, Utah St, Illinois St, Penn St, Stephen F. Austin, Illinois St, Creighton
Wednesday's Pick
Wow, the Maniac is still reeling from the display Jodie Meeks put on last night. Highlights don't do it justice my friends...
As far as the Maniac last night, precient selections of the road wins notched by Kentucky and FSU, as well as sweating out his lock pick of TCU +15. The only loss was on lost-cause IU, suffering, along with the audience, on yet another nationally televised blowout.
Here are Wednesday's selections:
Michigan State travels to surprising Penn State. Talor Battle has been great for the Nittany Lions, who still remain an outside candidate to sneak into the Big Dance. However, Michigan State has gelled of late and the talent discrepency is really large between them. I like Penn State, but no way they cover tonight.
Maniac's Pick: Michigan State -5 1/2 (LOCK)
Syracuse begins their four-game gauntlet tonight with a trip to the nation's capital to take on Greg Monroe and the Hoyas. These two teams always sem to lock up in tough battles, I expect tonight to be no different. I like the Hoyas, but will take the Orange with the points.
Maniac's Pick: Syracuse +6
Florida heads to Auburn tonight to take on the Tigers. Auburn has athleticism and rebounding, but lacks playmakers and shooting. It sees like the type of matchup that bodes well for the Gators, provided they can take care of the basketball and get on the defensive glass. Year Two of the "Baby Gators" has not been quite as successful as some hoped, but tonight's win would be a good positive step to returning the the NCAA Touney.
Maniac's Pick: Florida -3
Arkansas has notched two of the most impressive non-conference wins of anyone in the country, beating Oklahoma and Texas. SO why are they two point dogs tonight at Mississippi? Because the SEC is full of parity; good, yet few (if any) very good teams. Mississippi entered the season with SEC West title aspirations, though they took a hit when Chris Warren got hurt. Arkansas has a lot of talent most people have never heard of. A loss tonight puts a tarnish on their two big wins. I think John Pelphrey will make sure his Hogs know that.
Maniac's Pick: Arkansas +2
Last year's darlings of the Valley travel to this year's hopefuls when Drake visits Illinois State. We were real high on the Redbirds and their unbeaten start until MVC parity reared it's ugly head. It is that same parity that makes it crazy to lay 9 on anyone in this league. Gimme Drake and the points.
Maniac's Pick: Drake +9 (LOCK)
Wake visits BC in the proverbial "trap game." Fresh off their emotional fantastic victory over UNC they would seem ripe for the plucking. Just like...exactly, BC versus Harvard. Don't think that won't come up several hundred times in tonight's pregame locker room talk. Wake shows some maturity and poise tonight, and handles their business over a less-talented BC team.
Maniac's Pick: Wake -4 (LOCK)
Utah @ Air Force - Interesting game, gimme Air Force at home, if only becuase getting 8 is like getting 15 for a team that plays a normal tempo.
Maniac's Pick: Air Force +8
As far as the Maniac last night, precient selections of the road wins notched by Kentucky and FSU, as well as sweating out his lock pick of TCU +15. The only loss was on lost-cause IU, suffering, along with the audience, on yet another nationally televised blowout.
Here are Wednesday's selections:
Michigan State travels to surprising Penn State. Talor Battle has been great for the Nittany Lions, who still remain an outside candidate to sneak into the Big Dance. However, Michigan State has gelled of late and the talent discrepency is really large between them. I like Penn State, but no way they cover tonight.
Maniac's Pick: Michigan State -5 1/2 (LOCK)
Syracuse begins their four-game gauntlet tonight with a trip to the nation's capital to take on Greg Monroe and the Hoyas. These two teams always sem to lock up in tough battles, I expect tonight to be no different. I like the Hoyas, but will take the Orange with the points.
Maniac's Pick: Syracuse +6
Florida heads to Auburn tonight to take on the Tigers. Auburn has athleticism and rebounding, but lacks playmakers and shooting. It sees like the type of matchup that bodes well for the Gators, provided they can take care of the basketball and get on the defensive glass. Year Two of the "Baby Gators" has not been quite as successful as some hoped, but tonight's win would be a good positive step to returning the the NCAA Touney.
Maniac's Pick: Florida -3
Arkansas has notched two of the most impressive non-conference wins of anyone in the country, beating Oklahoma and Texas. SO why are they two point dogs tonight at Mississippi? Because the SEC is full of parity; good, yet few (if any) very good teams. Mississippi entered the season with SEC West title aspirations, though they took a hit when Chris Warren got hurt. Arkansas has a lot of talent most people have never heard of. A loss tonight puts a tarnish on their two big wins. I think John Pelphrey will make sure his Hogs know that.
Maniac's Pick: Arkansas +2
Last year's darlings of the Valley travel to this year's hopefuls when Drake visits Illinois State. We were real high on the Redbirds and their unbeaten start until MVC parity reared it's ugly head. It is that same parity that makes it crazy to lay 9 on anyone in this league. Gimme Drake and the points.
Maniac's Pick: Drake +9 (LOCK)
Wake visits BC in the proverbial "trap game." Fresh off their emotional fantastic victory over UNC they would seem ripe for the plucking. Just like...exactly, BC versus Harvard. Don't think that won't come up several hundred times in tonight's pregame locker room talk. Wake shows some maturity and poise tonight, and handles their business over a less-talented BC team.
Maniac's Pick: Wake -4 (LOCK)
Utah @ Air Force - Interesting game, gimme Air Force at home, if only becuase getting 8 is like getting 15 for a team that plays a normal tempo.
Maniac's Pick: Air Force +8
Wide A-Wake: Demon Deacons Notch Impressive Win Over BYU
One of the most intriguing non-conference matchups of the season did not disspoint. Wake Forest took their unblemished record into Provo to meet up with the 12-1 Cougars.
Both teams put up points all night, but not in a "no defense" way; rather in an exciting up tempo contest highlighted by excellent offensive efficiency. The game was a one or two possession game for most of the second half before the Deacons hit some big free throws and got two big stops in the game's final minute to preserve a 94-87 victory.
Jeff Teague continued his surprising All-American campaign, notching 30 points and 5 assists to help push Wake to 14-0.
Up Next:
BYU gets a bit of a breather, facing Western Oregon, Colorado St, and TCU.
Wake Forest has one week to prepare for the daunting task of slaying the North Carolina Goliath. The good news for the Deacons? They have eight days to stoke the fires of what will undoubtedly be one of the most festive crowds Joel Coliseum has hosted in a while.
Both teams put up points all night, but not in a "no defense" way; rather in an exciting up tempo contest highlighted by excellent offensive efficiency. The game was a one or two possession game for most of the second half before the Deacons hit some big free throws and got two big stops in the game's final minute to preserve a 94-87 victory.
Jeff Teague continued his surprising All-American campaign, notching 30 points and 5 assists to help push Wake to 14-0.
Up Next:
BYU gets a bit of a breather, facing Western Oregon, Colorado St, and TCU.
Wake Forest has one week to prepare for the daunting task of slaying the North Carolina Goliath. The good news for the Deacons? They have eight days to stoke the fires of what will undoubtedly be one of the most festive crowds Joel Coliseum has hosted in a while.
Saturday's Best Games - Jan 3rd.
In between bowl fever and the start of the NFL playoffs, it is easy for college hoops to get lost in the sportsfan's shuffle. However, Saturday is chock full of games worth tuning in for. Here is a rundown on Saturday's finest.
FIVE STARS:
12pm Pitt @ Georgetown - Can Georgetown take down the top two teams in the conference (and two of the top three in the nation) in the same week? They'll be on their home floor, and it is obvious Greg Monroe will not be afraid of Pitt's interior defenders, seeing how he didn't bat an eye at Hasheem Thabeet.
8pm Wake Forest @ BYU - Must be "east coast bias." I can't think of any other reason why the Lee Cummard and the Cougs aren't ranked (ditto for UNLV), but these two teams enter the game a combined 23-1. The winner puts a huge feather in their cap come Selection Sunday.
8pm Creighton @ Illinois State - I might be becoming a bit of an MVC honk, but I honestly think this is the 2nd best game of the day. Creighton (12-2) has been the big kid on the block for years while Illinois State (13-0) has been the low bird on the totem pole. We will find out tomorrow night how much (if any) things have changed.
FOUR STARS:
12pm Ohio State @ Minnesota - Ohio St skidded past Iowa coming off their first loss throttling by WVA. Minnesota came into Big Ten play unbleminshed...then got their doors blown off by Michigan State. Tubby's Gophers don't want an 0-2 start to blemish all the positives of 2008.
2pm Tennessee @ Kansas - Two good teams square off in one of the nation's toughest places to win. Kansas is not ranked, but a win a the Phog never hurts the resume.
THREE STARS:
2pm Penn State @ Wisconsin - Don't look now, but Bo Ryan's Badgers appear to be a force once again in the Big Ten after an opening dismantling of Michigan (who beat UCLA and Duke). Penn State is off to a 12-2 start, but a win in Madison might be asking a bit much.
4pm NC State @ Florida - The Gators haven't made the strides that many expected so far in 2008-09. A home loss to the Pack would be another tough obstacle to overcome heading into a balanced, if not great, SEC.
4pm Wyoming @ Utah - The Ute's a fresh off a big win over Gonzaga...but I suppose a lot of teams can boast that this year. Meanwhile Wyoming (11-3) needs as many wins as they can get to make up for a less-than-stellar non conference schedule. The MWC is really deep and good this year. It will be interesting to see if Wyoming is one of the teams that can make noise.
TWO STARS:
2pm Xavier @ Virginia - The Muskies look to stop a 2-game skid in Charlottesville. The Cavs would love a big win before entering a ACC that appears to be a cut above their 2009 talent level.
4pm East Carolina @ Clemson - I had ECU on the Maniac Radar earlier this season. Then they lost by 41 to Wake. Expect Clemson to cruise to 14-0, though the Pirates do have the talent to compete for a 2nd to 4th finish in C-USA.
4pm Indiana @ Iowa - Let the carnage begin. The Hoosiers travel to Iowa to deliver the "bye week" in person. The Hoosiers enter off a home loss to Lipscomb (google it.) and are clearly Number Eleven in the Big Ten.
UPSET ALERT:
These three teams need to be on the watch for upset-minded foes who just might be capable of shooting their way to a big upset win.
* West Virgina @ Seton Hall
* Butler @ Valparaiso
* Wake Forest @ BYU
FIVE STARS:
12pm Pitt @ Georgetown - Can Georgetown take down the top two teams in the conference (and two of the top three in the nation) in the same week? They'll be on their home floor, and it is obvious Greg Monroe will not be afraid of Pitt's interior defenders, seeing how he didn't bat an eye at Hasheem Thabeet.
8pm Wake Forest @ BYU - Must be "east coast bias." I can't think of any other reason why the Lee Cummard and the Cougs aren't ranked (ditto for UNLV), but these two teams enter the game a combined 23-1. The winner puts a huge feather in their cap come Selection Sunday.
8pm Creighton @ Illinois State - I might be becoming a bit of an MVC honk, but I honestly think this is the 2nd best game of the day. Creighton (12-2) has been the big kid on the block for years while Illinois State (13-0) has been the low bird on the totem pole. We will find out tomorrow night how much (if any) things have changed.
FOUR STARS:
12pm Ohio State @ Minnesota - Ohio St skidded past Iowa coming off their first loss throttling by WVA. Minnesota came into Big Ten play unbleminshed...then got their doors blown off by Michigan State. Tubby's Gophers don't want an 0-2 start to blemish all the positives of 2008.
2pm Tennessee @ Kansas - Two good teams square off in one of the nation's toughest places to win. Kansas is not ranked, but a win a the Phog never hurts the resume.
THREE STARS:
2pm Penn State @ Wisconsin - Don't look now, but Bo Ryan's Badgers appear to be a force once again in the Big Ten after an opening dismantling of Michigan (who beat UCLA and Duke). Penn State is off to a 12-2 start, but a win in Madison might be asking a bit much.
4pm NC State @ Florida - The Gators haven't made the strides that many expected so far in 2008-09. A home loss to the Pack would be another tough obstacle to overcome heading into a balanced, if not great, SEC.
4pm Wyoming @ Utah - The Ute's a fresh off a big win over Gonzaga...but I suppose a lot of teams can boast that this year. Meanwhile Wyoming (11-3) needs as many wins as they can get to make up for a less-than-stellar non conference schedule. The MWC is really deep and good this year. It will be interesting to see if Wyoming is one of the teams that can make noise.
TWO STARS:
2pm Xavier @ Virginia - The Muskies look to stop a 2-game skid in Charlottesville. The Cavs would love a big win before entering a ACC that appears to be a cut above their 2009 talent level.
4pm East Carolina @ Clemson - I had ECU on the Maniac Radar earlier this season. Then they lost by 41 to Wake. Expect Clemson to cruise to 14-0, though the Pirates do have the talent to compete for a 2nd to 4th finish in C-USA.
4pm Indiana @ Iowa - Let the carnage begin. The Hoosiers travel to Iowa to deliver the "bye week" in person. The Hoosiers enter off a home loss to Lipscomb (google it.) and are clearly Number Eleven in the Big Ten.
UPSET ALERT:
These three teams need to be on the watch for upset-minded foes who just might be capable of shooting their way to a big upset win.
* West Virgina @ Seton Hall
* Butler @ Valparaiso
* Wake Forest @ BYU
Bracketeering Dec 29th - Ranking College Basketball's Elite Teams
It was an extremely interesting and volatile, albeit light, final week of 2008 (and the conclusion of most non-conference games). Several Big East teams righted their seemingly sinking ships (Louisville, West Virginia) while a big blow was struck against mid-majors everywhere when Gonzaga and Xavier let tough big name losses spiral into subsequent not-so-big name losses.
Missouri treated it's newly ranked status like a hot potato, getting throttled by border rival Illinois in their first game as a ranked team. Meanwhile Minnesota seems to like their recent acclaim, running their win streak to an impressive 12-0.
With conference play around the corner, it is starting to become clear that some leagues are loaded (Big East, Big Ten), and some have very little to cheer about (SEC, Pac-10). However, it is the two remaining "BSC" conferences (ACC & Big 12) whose inner league seperation will speak volumes as to the March destiny of some A-10, Mountain West and WCC hopefuls.
That said, let's digg into Week 6 of Bracketeering!
Missouri treated it's newly ranked status like a hot potato, getting throttled by border rival Illinois in their first game as a ranked team. Meanwhile Minnesota seems to like their recent acclaim, running their win streak to an impressive 12-0.With conference play around the corner, it is starting to become clear that some leagues are loaded (Big East, Big Ten), and some have very little to cheer about (SEC, Pac-10). However, it is the two remaining "BSC" conferences (ACC & Big 12) whose inner league seperation will speak volumes as to the March destiny of some A-10, Mountain West and WCC hopefuls.
That said, let's digg into Week 6 of Bracketeering!
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FINAL FOUR:
1. UNC - The beat keeps on. Expect their number one ranking to be fully intact heading into their Jan 11th trip to Wake Forest.
2. UConn- I like the next two teams listed next, but it is honestly difficult seeing anyone other than UCONN giving the Heels a run for their money. AJ Price was brilliant in last weeks OT thriller over Gonzaga, however it is the play of Adrien and Thabeet that will determine their fate in the big-man loaded Big East.
3. Oklahoma - Basically a week off for Christmas. They have several games beforehand, but it is tough not to look ahead to a January 11th tussle with Texas.
4. Duke - They enjoyed week off for the holidays since their drubbing of Xavier. Butler took a little shine off that win by dusting the Muskies at their place last week, but still no reason not to think Duke has the horses to finish a solid second in the ACC, and compete for a Final Four spot.
ELITE EIGHT:
5. Pitt - They get a real test next Saturday against Georgetown. Win that one, and we might have to finally give in and slot the Panthers up a notch.
6. Purdue - Two tread-water wins over instate foes IPFW and Valpo this week are nothing to get to jazzed about. Their Tuesday tussle with Illinois (12-1 with a 2-pt loss to Clemson on a neutral floor) is a really good game. I would be surprised if it isn't between two ranked foes after the polls come out tomorrow.
7. Notre Dame - Aren't we so so fickle? Everyone (me included) LOVED the Irish going into the season. I am pretty sure I pegged their early season tilt with UNC as the best non-conference game of the season. We know how that one went. Then the loss to Ohio State while Harangody had pneumonia...and we forgot all about them. Time to wake up. The Irish are still Final Four-talented, and get a few more tune-ups (DePaul, St. John's) before the Big East gauntlet begins in earnest.
We're still hanging around...
8. Wake Forest - Ok, ECU isn't going to the tourney, but the Deacons 41 point win over them got our attention. Jeff Teague is a legit All-American candidate, and is probably the best major school player people have never heard of. He gets his chance to announce his presence in two weeks when the Tarheels come to Winston Salem.
Sweet and lurking: The next tier (in order)
9. Syracuse - I still like this club, especially now that the Devendorf saga has been put to rest. Next big question? How does their front line stack up when they start tussling with Pitt, UConn, Notre Dame and Georgetown??
10. Georgetown - Said it once, but worth repeating, things are going great so far for the Hoyas, but their stretch from Dec 29th - Jan 6th is BRUTAL (UConn, Notre Dame and Pitt). Survive that unblemished? #2 is realistic. After that things let up with Duke and Syracuse.
11. UCLA - Put them in the Notre Dame category; we forgot about the Bruins a little too soon. Keep in mind, this team is experienced and returns a lot from their Final Four team (third consecutive appearance, by the way), including star PG Darren Collison. Factor in a down Pac-10, and there is no reason they shouldn't be positioned with a 1 or 2 seed to mount a run for their fourth consecutive Final Four in March.
12. Michigan St. - Another team with a virtual week off, but that Texas win leaves a nice impression. However, given the total body of work, it was tough to keep them ahead of -
13. Texas - Yes, they lost a virtual home game to Michigan State, but that is the beauty of college hoops. That loss won't derail their chances. They won a nail biter against an always tough Wisconsin squad. They still appear to be on track for a great season. If only Colt McCoy were so fortunate...
14. UCLA - Time to stop punishing them for two close losses. The Michigan loss seems more reasonable after their handling of Duke, and losing @ Texas is no embarrassment. As J'Rue Holliday gets more comfortable, the Bruins are looking more comfortable winning a down Pac-10.
15. Louisville - Pitino shook up the lineup for their game against UAB, opting to get the ball out of erratic PG Edgar Sosa'a hands. The result? A 20-point thrashing. No one questions Louisville's talent. The question is, can they keep it together for a brutal Big East schedule?
16. Michigan - For yet another week, the Wolverines STAY at #16. I am looking forward to Wednesday's game hosting Wisconsin (who gave Texas a handful) and Saturday when the Illini come to town. Either way, the Wolverines will be moving somewhere next week.
I fought long and hard keeping them ahead of Baylor and Illinois
Slippin': The Maniac drops the hammer
Xavier - Um, uh oh. The Duke loss was a warning sign. The Butler loss was a road flare. This team needs to find consistent offensive production and start canning some free throws or else that #7 ranking might be a disappointing memory when they are sweating on Selection Sunday.
Gonzaga - The UConn loss was demoralizing. However the hangover loss to Portland St. damages their resume come seeding time. January 7th and Feb 7th games against Tennessee and Memphis might be the last chance for the Zags to erase those losses in the committee's eyes.
Portland State might have pulled down more than a rebound...
Tennessee- I know they should be moving up our rankings after the win over Marquette.We were ready to... then they go and play a 79-77 squeaker against Belmont. If it is any consolation, Coach K sends his congratulations for beating a tough, gutty ball club.
Closing In...
Baylor, Illinois, St. Mary's, Texas A&M, Villanova, Butler, Tennessee, UNLV, Butler, West Virginia, Stanford
Half Court Heaves: Long shots worth keeping an eye on
Evansville, Dayton, VMI, Illinois-Chicago, Boston College, Illinois St, Charleston, IUPUI, Niagara, LSU, BYU, George Mason
FINAL FOUR:
1. UNC - The beat keeps on. Expect their number one ranking to be fully intact heading into their Jan 11th trip to Wake Forest.
2. UConn- I like the next two teams listed next, but it is honestly difficult seeing anyone other than UCONN giving the Heels a run for their money. AJ Price was brilliant in last weeks OT thriller over Gonzaga, however it is the play of Adrien and Thabeet that will determine their fate in the big-man loaded Big East.
3. Oklahoma - Basically a week off for Christmas. They have several games beforehand, but it is tough not to look ahead to a January 11th tussle with Texas.
4. Duke - They enjoyed week off for the holidays since their drubbing of Xavier. Butler took a little shine off that win by dusting the Muskies at their place last week, but still no reason not to think Duke has the horses to finish a solid second in the ACC, and compete for a Final Four spot.
ELITE EIGHT:
5. Pitt - They get a real test next Saturday against Georgetown. Win that one, and we might have to finally give in and slot the Panthers up a notch.
6. Purdue - Two tread-water wins over instate foes IPFW and Valpo this week are nothing to get to jazzed about. Their Tuesday tussle with Illinois (12-1 with a 2-pt loss to Clemson on a neutral floor) is a really good game. I would be surprised if it isn't between two ranked foes after the polls come out tomorrow.
7. Notre Dame - Aren't we so so fickle? Everyone (me included) LOVED the Irish going into the season. I am pretty sure I pegged their early season tilt with UNC as the best non-conference game of the season. We know how that one went. Then the loss to Ohio State while Harangody had pneumonia...and we forgot all about them. Time to wake up. The Irish are still Final Four-talented, and get a few more tune-ups (DePaul, St. John's) before the Big East gauntlet begins in earnest.
We're still hanging around...Sweet and lurking: The next tier (in order)
9. Syracuse - I still like this club, especially now that the Devendorf saga has been put to rest. Next big question? How does their front line stack up when they start tussling with Pitt, UConn, Notre Dame and Georgetown??
10. Georgetown - Said it once, but worth repeating, things are going great so far for the Hoyas, but their stretch from Dec 29th - Jan 6th is BRUTAL (UConn, Notre Dame and Pitt). Survive that unblemished? #2 is realistic. After that things let up with Duke and Syracuse.
11. UCLA - Put them in the Notre Dame category; we forgot about the Bruins a little too soon. Keep in mind, this team is experienced and returns a lot from their Final Four team (third consecutive appearance, by the way), including star PG Darren Collison. Factor in a down Pac-10, and there is no reason they shouldn't be positioned with a 1 or 2 seed to mount a run for their fourth consecutive Final Four in March.
12. Michigan St. - Another team with a virtual week off, but that Texas win leaves a nice impression. However, given the total body of work, it was tough to keep them ahead of -
13. Texas - Yes, they lost a virtual home game to Michigan State, but that is the beauty of college hoops. That loss won't derail their chances. They won a nail biter against an always tough Wisconsin squad. They still appear to be on track for a great season. If only Colt McCoy were so fortunate...
14. UCLA - Time to stop punishing them for two close losses. The Michigan loss seems more reasonable after their handling of Duke, and losing @ Texas is no embarrassment. As J'Rue Holliday gets more comfortable, the Bruins are looking more comfortable winning a down Pac-10.
15. Louisville - Pitino shook up the lineup for their game against UAB, opting to get the ball out of erratic PG Edgar Sosa'a hands. The result? A 20-point thrashing. No one questions Louisville's talent. The question is, can they keep it together for a brutal Big East schedule?
16. Michigan - For yet another week, the Wolverines STAY at #16. I am looking forward to Wednesday's game hosting Wisconsin (who gave Texas a handful) and Saturday when the Illini come to town. Either way, the Wolverines will be moving somewhere next week.
I fought long and hard keeping them ahead of Baylor and Illinois
Slippin': The Maniac drops the hammer
Xavier - Um, uh oh. The Duke loss was a warning sign. The Butler loss was a road flare. This team needs to find consistent offensive production and start canning some free throws or else that #7 ranking might be a disappointing memory when they are sweating on Selection Sunday.
Gonzaga - The UConn loss was demoralizing. However the hangover loss to Portland St. damages their resume come seeding time. January 7th and Feb 7th games against Tennessee and Memphis might be the last chance for the Zags to erase those losses in the committee's eyes.
Portland State might have pulled down more than a rebound... Tennessee- I know they should be moving up our rankings after the win over Marquette.We were ready to... then they go and play a 79-77 squeaker against Belmont. If it is any consolation, Coach K sends his congratulations for beating a tough, gutty ball club.
Closing In...
Baylor, Illinois, St. Mary's, Texas A&M, Villanova, Butler, Tennessee, UNLV, Butler, West Virginia, Stanford
Half Court Heaves: Long shots worth keeping an eye on
Evansville, Dayton, VMI, Illinois-Chicago, Boston College, Illinois St, Charleston, IUPUI, Niagara, LSU, BYU, George Mason
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