BRACKET BLOG: Sweet Sixteen (NCAA Open Thread)
by BracketCat on Mar 24, 2011 6:00 PM CDT
in Men's Basketball
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Feel free to use this post as an open games thread for tonight's Sweet Sixteen action.
Previews after the jump.
Previous Entries:
The Teams
- No. 1 seed Duke Blue Devils
- No. 1 seed Kansas Jayhawks
- No. 1 seed Ohio St. Buckeyes
- No. 2 seed Florida Gators
- No. 2 seed North Carolina Tar Heels
- No. 2 seed San Diego St. Aztecs
- No. 3 seed BYU Cougars
- No. 3 seed Connecticut Huskies
- No. 4 seed Kentucky Wildcats
- No. 4 seed Wisconsin Badgers
- No. 5 seed Arizona Wildcats
- No. 8 seed Butler Bulldogs
- No. 10 seed Florida St. Seminoles
- No. 11 seed Marquette Golden Eagles
- No. 11 seed Va. Commonwealth Rams
- No. 12 seed Richmond Spiders
The Sites
- Anaheim, Calif.
- New Orleans, La.
- Newark, N.J.
- San Antonio, Texas
East Region
No. 1 Ohio State (34-2) vs. No. 4 Kentucky (27-8)
March 25 | 8:45 p.m. CST | Newark | CBS
Jim Nantz | Clark Kellogg
How They Got Here:
No. 1 Ohio State 98, No. 8 George Mason 66
No. 4 Kentucky 71, No. 5 West Virginia 63
It's the Young Guns versus Jared and the Popguns.
I'm sure Kentucky will put up a valiant effort in this game, and both teams use a short rotation, so depth might not be much of a factor.
But the Wildcats are a decent scoring team, not an elite one. And make no mistake, Ohio State is an elite scoring team. Sullinger will be just a little too much for Josh Harrellson to handle, while OSU's stable of guards will cause Kentucky's young perimeter players all kinds of headaches.
GAMER: OSU 72, Kentucky 65
Pomeroy: OSU 74, Kentucky 67
Sagarin: OSU 72, Kentucky 68
No. 2 North Carolina (28-7) vs. No. 11 Marquette (22-14)
March 25 | 6:15 p.m. CST | Newark | CBS
Jim Nantz | Clark Kellogg
How They Got Here:
No. 2 North Carolina 86, No. 7 Washington 83
No. 11 Marquette 66, No. 3 Syracuse 62
Marquette is turning into a nice story — and an effective retort to Big East detractors who insist the conference was overrated — and its coach is becoming a hot commodity as the carousel spins, but advancing beyond the Sweet Sixteen will be a tall task.
That's because the North Carolina team that awaits the Golden Eagles is incredibly talented.
Point guard Kendall Marshall is one of the most skilled lead guards in the country, even though he is a freshman.
Harrison Barnes is ready for the NBA. And big men John Henson and Tyler Zeller might be too much size inside for Marquette to handle.
But if Buzz and his "Jukes" have a chance, it's because Carolina steadfastly refuses to play much defense.
Scoring won't be at a premium in what promises to be a high-scoring affair, which means the last team with the ball may win.
GAMER: UNC 75, Marquette 68
Pomeroy: UNC 76, Marquette 73
Sagarin: UNC 71, Marquette 69
Southeast Region
No. 2 Florida (28-7) vs. No. 3 Brigham Young (32-4)
March 24 | 6:27 p.m. CST | New Orleans | TBS
Gus Johnson | Len Elmore | Reggie Miller
How They Got Here:
No. 2 Florida 73, No. 7 UCLA 65
No. 3 BYU 89, No. 11 Gonzaga 67
I thought Gonzaga would wipe the floor with BYU, so my opinion re: the Cougars is close to useless.
Obviously, the Fightin' Latter-Day Saints are more than just Jimmer Fredette and didn't get to 30+ wins by accident.
I like BYU to again win this rematch of last year's first-round game, which went to overtime. The merciless hobbit had more than 30 points in that game and likely will tonight, as well.
GAMER: BYU 75, Florida 70
Pomeroy: BYU 74, Florida 73
Sagarin: BYU 72, Florida 70
No. 4 Wisconsin (25-8) vs. No. 8 Butler (25-9)
March 24 | 8:57 p.m. CST | New Orleans | TBS
Gus Johnson | Len Elmore | Reggie Miller
How They Got Here:
No. 4 Wisconsin 70, No. 5 Kansas State 65
No. 8 Butler 71, No. 1 Pittsburgh 70
Congratulations, Wisconsin, you made it this far. Now prepare for your own personal Badger hell.
Butler is a mimic. It beats teams by becoming a better version of whatever it is that they do best.
Do you crash the boards with your interior size? Butler will find a way to out-rebound you. Like to shoot 3s? Butler will shoot a higher percentage. Is defense your forte? The Bulldogs will out-scrap, out-steal and out-hustle you.
Bo Ryan may think he knows Badgerball, but he's about to receive an education in it from a chessmaster named Brad Stevens. The glasses-wearing boy wonder with an insane attention to detail will find a way to prevail, no matter what the the computers and my stupid Second Chance bracket say.
GAMER: Wisconsin 63, Butler 60
Pomeroy: Wisconsin 66, Butler 59
Sagarin: Wisconsin 68, Butler 62
Southwest Region
No. 1 Kansas (34-2) vs. No. 12 Richmond (29-7)
March 25 | 6:27 p.m. CST | San Antonio | TBS
Marv Albert | Steve Kerr
How They Got Here:
No. 1 Kansas 73, No. 9 Illinois 59
No. 12 Richmond 65, No. 13 Morehead 48
No No. 1 seed ever has lost to a No. 12 seed or lower in the modern era of the NCAA Tournament.
Kansas will not be the first. Richmond is scrappy and runs a challenging match-up zone, but lacks the interior presence to contest the Morris twins. The Jayhawks will lead at halftime and pull away in the second half.
Consider my voodoo jinx fully enacted. Game on.
GAMER: Kansas 74, Richmond 68
Pomeroy: Kansas 73, Richmond 64
Sagarin: Kansas 75, Richmond 67
No. 10 Florida State (23-10) vs. No. 11 Virginia Commonwealth (26-11)
March 25 | 8:57 p.m. CST | San Antonio | TBS
Marv Albert | Steve Kerr
How They Got Here:
No. 10 Florida State 71, No. 2 Notre Dame 57
No. 11 VCU 94, No. 3 Purdue 76
One of the unlikeliest Sweet Sixteen pairings ever will tip off Friday night when the Florida State Seminoles take on the VCU Rams.
The Rams made it here on pure momentum, winning three NCAA games in five days after blazing to their conference championship game. They have thrashed three BCS opponents already, so they won't fear FSU.
The Seminoles, on the other hand, advanced this far with their most stifling defensive efforts of the season, holding Texas A&M to 50 points and frustrating Notre Dame's shooters all night long.
This might be the the biggest toss-up game of the Big Dance so far. If FSU can hold VCU to 60 points or less, the 'Noles should win, but if the Rams can get more of an uptempo game in their favor, you have to like their chances.
GAMER: VCU 62, FSU 61
Pomeroy: FSU 68, VCU 65
Sagarin: FSU 64, VCU 61
West Region
No. 1 Duke (32-4) vs. No. 5 Arizona (29-7)
March 24 | 8:45 p.m. CST | Anaheim | CBS
Verne Lundquist | Bill Raftery
How They Got Here:
No. 1 Duke 73, No. 8 Michigan 71
No. 5 Arizona 70, No. 4 Texas 69
I had a sneaking suspicion Arizona might make it this far, considering Sean Miller is a much better coach than Rick Barnes. But Coach K is a whole other matter.
While it remains to be seen whether the reintegration of Kyrie Irving will be more of a boon or a chemistry impediment, there's no denying the depth and versatility of Duke.
More important, this team is the defending national champion and wins these games more often than not.
Miller's going to build a great program in Arizona and Derrick Williams is going to be a hell of a player in the NBA, but their ride together likely ends tonight. The Wildcats are just a little too young to win this game.
GAMER: Duke 71, Arizona 69
Pomeroy: Duke 79, Arizona 69
Sagarin: Duke 71, Arizona 65
No. 2 San Diego State (34-2) vs. No. 3 Connecticut (28-9)
March 24 | 6:15 p.m. CST | Anaheim | CBS
Verne Lundquist | Bill Raftery
How They Got Here:
No. 2 SDSU 71, No. 7 Temple 64 (2OT)
No. 3 UConn 69, No. 6 Cincinnati 58
If Steve Fisher has any Fab Five magic left in his wizard sleeves, this might be the game to pull it out. He'll need it to defeat Kemba and the Miracles.
Although San Diego State will have a distinct home-court advantage less than 90 miles from its campus, the Aztecs still are relatively new to this stage.
Jim Calhoun, though, is a master in this tournament, which is why it was so weird to see him not in it last season.
If SDSU can establish its style of game — a physical, rebounding-heavy, pound 'em in the paint affair — I like its chances to win. But if the Aztecs let Kemba Walker get going, they're going to have a long night.
This one almost is too close to call, but I have SDSU going to the Final Four in both my original and Second Chance brackets, so I'm going to stand by my men.
GAMER: SDSU 66, UConn 62
Pomeroy: SDSU 66, UConn 62
Sagarin: SDSU 67, UConn 66
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Comments
pink floyd
"To all the fake fans that just jump on and off the bandwagon who think we suck go cheer for somebody down the road then" -JP
I was going with PF's "Comfortably Numb" as well.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 9:17 PM CDT up reply actions
I am here
"To all the fake fans that just jump on and off the bandwagon who think we suck go cheer for somebody down the road then" -JP
Been watching the Fab Five on ESPNU
Guess its time to switch over to the current
"To all the fake fans that just jump on and off the bandwagon who think we suck go cheer for somebody down the road then" -JP
GO FLORIDA
I am tired of hearing Jimmer this, Jimmer that, etc
"To all the fake fans that just jump on and off the bandwagon who think we suck go cheer for somebody down the road then" -JP
One thing's for sure...
Jacob Pullen was way better at defending Jimmer’s crossover than Kenny Boynton is.
Jacob Pullen > Jimmer.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 9:18 PM CDT up reply actions
The refs are GIVING
the game to Florida. This is where my big market team theory comes into play.
oh hail the Purple and White
I think it's funny Jimmer isn't getting every call. MWC refs protected him, imo.
by WillieWannabe on Mar 24, 2011 8:02 PM CDT up reply actions
did you see the 30 footer he sank to tie it at 63
the guy is MONEY
I made the comment about the refs stinking when they failed to call a foul when a BYU guy (not Jimmer) took a 3 fom the corner, and the Florida guy knocked the shooter into the first row, and no foul. Jimmer is having a bad night and he still has 28, to this point.
oh hail the Purple and White
This is me
shredding my brackets and switching to straight alcohol.
My new blog: Those Other Guys. Critiques welcome.
by jonfmorse on Mar 24, 2011 8:04 PM CDT reply actions 1 recs
Anyone have thoughts on
Davies sitting on the bench?! I both like it and find it strange
"To all the fake fans that just jump on and off the bandwagon who think we suck go cheer for somebody down the road then" -JP
And Jake's a better all around player, because of his D
but Jimmer is, well, a rare type of player. But he won’t be that big a factor in the pros.
oh hail the Purple and White
I'd probably agree...
but Jimmer is a special offensive player. Just outstanding. He has every move. I’d be curious to see how he does at the next level.
by WillieWannabe on Mar 24, 2011 8:14 PM CDT up reply actions
What makes Jimmer so special is
his change of pace dribble, and his ability to stop on a dime and pop the shot. You never know when he’s gonna stop or keep going. The change of pace on his drives is impressive.
oh hail the Purple and White
BYU - Fla - down to the wire
money time. I knew this would be a great game. That Tyus for Fla is a stud. Darn good player.
oh hail the Purple and White
Donovan has called two timeouts here...
instead of letting them play. Overcoaching?
by WillieWannabe on Mar 24, 2011 8:25 PM CDT up reply actions
Why did Donovan call timeout at 15 sec?
I agreed with the other one, but this allows BYU to decide who to foul. Fla has the chance to get mismatch with a timeout
oh hail the Purple and White
Jimmer's legs got tired
and he has to have his legs to shoot. Good effort by BYU, but Fla has too many strong, quick players.
oh hail the Purple and White
Jimmer bled for our sins!
Too bad they lost, or we could have coined the new catchphrase, “Fear the Chin.”
This may sound bad
But I am glad Jimmer just checked out of the game!! He was close to getting Pullens 38pt mark which is Tournament high so far
"To all the fake fans that just jump on and off the bandwagon who think we suck go cheer for somebody down the road then" -JP
Pullen speaks!!
“Jacob Pullen
I wanna say thanks to all the people that supported me on my journey in college now it’s time for another”
"To all the fake fans that just jump on and off the bandwagon who think we suck go cheer for somebody down the road then" -JP
and another tweet"
“Jacob Pullen
Oh don’t forget #EMAW”
"To all the fake fans that just jump on and off the bandwagon who think we suck go cheer for somebody down the road then" -JP
same ole, same ole.
you slummin in Jersey still?
by WillieWannabe on Mar 24, 2011 9:00 PM CDT up reply actions
True story: TB is quitting his job and joining 'Cake Boss'
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
LOL
Yep, I’m in New Jersey. And no, I’m not working for the Cake Boss.
We'll carry the banner high!
Bring On The Cats
by TB on Mar 24, 2011 9:01 PM CDT up reply actions
When did you get your conceal/carry, TB?
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
Still working on that one
And no, no games in Newark for me tomorrow. Flying home for the weekend. Maybe if there was a team I cared about…
We'll carry the banner high!
Bring On The Cats
by TB on Mar 24, 2011 9:08 PM CDT up reply actions
ya know...
there’s nothing wrong with that..
by WillieWannabe on Mar 24, 2011 9:07 PM CDT up reply actions
So, who is every one rooting for Wiscy or Butler
I think it will be another nail biter. Makes us look better if Wiscy wins, but I’m not counting Butler out
oh hail the Purple and White
Butler dealt us our most painful modern NCAA loss, but Wisky ejected us twice.
Toss-up. I’m rooting for a meteor to hit New Orleans.
I'm madder at Wiscy
heck of a coach, but they bore me.
oh hail the Purple and White
Same here
HATE that style of basketball.
We'll carry the banner high!
Bring On The Cats
by TB on Mar 24, 2011 9:10 PM CDT up reply actions
I hate that he actually looks like a badger.
by BracketCat on Mar 24, 2011 9:11 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
awesome
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 9:43 PM CDT up reply actions
for the green
+1
The time for calm and rational discourse is past, now is the time for senseless bickering -Anonymous the Younger
by Anon_the_younger on Mar 24, 2011 11:01 PM CDT up reply actions
I still blame the Butler loss
on the crap head ref who didn’t call the fould that was a foul that ended in 2 overtimes. He makes the call, we go to the final four, I’m convicned.
oh hail the Purple and White
He is a genius
or at least a hell of a coach. But our team’s legs were tired, and they were emotionally spent from playing and winning one of the greatest games in NCAA tourney history. They were just drained. And who could blame them.
oh hail the Purple and White
I'm near the top or at the top of every bracket I'm in, so I'm going to suck it up and hope they win.
My son gets all winnings in his college fund, so I’ve got to root for the boy.
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
There is no longer any doubt that the guy is a d/bag;
but his attorney is a heck of a negotiator.
oh hail the Purple and White
I just still can believe
that he is now the #10 (i think) highest paid college bball coach….
"To all the fake fans that just jump on and off the bandwagon who think we suck go cheer for somebody down the road then" -JP
I read 12th, but still, or whatever, that is ridiculous
oh hail the Purple and White
10th, 12th, whatever it is...
…that’s a lot of money to pay a coach who hasn’t shown he can maintain consistently a top 10-15 program.
We'll carry the banner high!
Bring On The Cats
by TB on Mar 24, 2011 9:32 PM CDT up reply actions
He now joins one other coach
in that level to have that much money and NO final fours!!
"To all the fake fans that just jump on and off the bandwagon who think we suck go cheer for somebody down the road then" -JP
It's not greedy if it goes to charity.
The bragging is free.
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
Butler's half court sets
are really sweet. that is a well conceived offense, and they run it well;
oh hail the Purple and White
Forcing Reggie Miller into a Gus/Elmore call is like... well...
I can’t think of a metaphor terrible enough.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 9:24 PM CDT reply actions
Apparently JMart is sitting behind those guys...and he
tweeted earlier in the previous game that Reggie and Elmore were arguing about Jimmer during a commercial break. I would love to see that.
by WillieWannabe on Mar 24, 2011 9:26 PM CDT up reply actions
I think Elmore is an idiot
I don’t get why everyone was so pissed at Reggie. I thought he was great in the Wiscy game. But Elmore is just plain annoying to me.
oh hail the Purple and White
He has good chemistry with Gus.
And that makes him alright with me.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 9:29 PM CDT up reply actions
It's pretty hard to agree on announcers.
Everyone likes something different. I will always have a special place in my heart for Gus and Elmore because of the Xavier game last year.
by WillieWannabe on Mar 24, 2011 9:31 PM CDT up reply actions
I just love Gus's excitability in general, and Elmore's willingness to get the hell out of the way when Gus is on a roll.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 9:33 PM CDT up reply actions
Good metaphor.
Gotta love dropping the 70s pop culture reference!
But I’d say it’s more like adding Roseanne Barr to Charlie’s Angels.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 9:58 PM CDT up reply actions
need brain floss.
The time for calm and rational discourse is past, now is the time for senseless bickering -Anonymous the Younger
by Anon_the_younger on Mar 24, 2011 11:03 PM CDT up reply actions
This video must be watched.
Great Gus call, in which he is completely unintelligible after Morrison hits the shot.
Video will open in a new window.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:19 PM CDT up reply actions
A couple days off
Didnt help my need to want to punch that red headed **** in the face. Its only gotten worse!!
"To all the fake fans that just jump on and off the bandwagon who think we suck go cheer for somebody down the road then" -JP
Does anyone think the walmart boys at MU
will open the check book and try to get the Butler coach?
oh hail the Purple and White
It won't work.
Butler has him zipped up through 2023, I think. And Stevens is Indiana to the core.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 9:28 PM CDT up reply actions
I think you are right - I could see him going to the Hossiers though
they buyout on the long contract won’t be that much, I heard.
oh hail the Purple and White
Crean's seat at Indiana has kinda been warm lately...
but will most likely have the #1 recruiting class for 2012 coming in. He should be safe.
by WillieWannabe on Mar 24, 2011 9:33 PM CDT up reply actions
They have to give him time for how decimated the program was when he got there.
Mizzou fans think it was bad post Quinn. That was bad.
Indiana post Sampson was like Hiroshima.
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
Something like that.
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
I thought at one point Crean was down to 6 scholarship players.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 9:44 PM CDT up reply actions
True.
I think that’s probably the only job he would leave Butler for.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 9:33 PM CDT up reply actions
But
They should at least try. It would be stupid not to. And who cares how long a contract is for. MA’s was through 2015 and taht didnt stop anything. Plus his buyout was only 550k
"To all the fake fans that just jump on and off the bandwagon who think we suck go cheer for somebody down the road then" -JP
The more important part is he's Indiana to the bone.
And why even ask if you know the answer will be no?
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 9:34 PM CDT up reply actions
It doesnt hurt or change anything if he says no
And what happens if he says yes?! you just dont know if you dont ask.
However, I do think he is waiting on Indiana as well
"To all the fake fans that just jump on and off the bandwagon who think we suck go cheer for somebody down the road then" -JP
Matt Howard vs. Brusewitz
That is some serious ginger-on-ginger violence there.
Seriously, it just breaks my heart to witness gingers hating on members of their own ethnicity like that.
Why? They don't have souls.
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
Gingers = Vampires?
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 9:34 PM CDT up reply actions
Might be true. They both melt in sunlight.
Do you ever see ginger football players? No.
Do you see ginger basketball players? Yes.
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
So they're Dracula-vampires not Edward-Vampires?
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 9:45 PM CDT up reply actions
Don't even get me started on Senor Sparkles.
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
I have a friend who is a big fan of Dracula,
and I think he might punch Robert Pattinson in the face if he had the chance.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 9:51 PM CDT up reply actions
I hope they knock eachother out
cant stand these two teams right now!!
"To all the fake fans that just jump on and off the bandwagon who think we suck go cheer for somebody down the road then" -JP
What is Butler doing to cause Wiscy to turn it over 5 times in 15 minutes?!?
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 9:46 PM CDT reply actions
I am SO freaking happy to see that punk Taylor miss those FTs.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 9:48 PM CDT reply actions
Khyle Marshall, freshman at Butler
apparently wanted to go to KSU pretty bad. I know we recruited him, but I don’t think we offered though.
Rodney apparently talked Shawn Smith into visiting.
(pops collar)
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
by Panjandrum on Mar 24, 2011 9:53 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Saw that...
Thought he was a lost cause, but glad things have opened back up. I didn’t realize him and Rod were that close.
by WillieWannabe on Mar 24, 2011 9:54 PM CDT up reply actions
Isn't Rod like 3 years in front of him, though?
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:11 PM CDT up reply actions
Link??
"To all the fake fans that just jump on and off the bandwagon who think we suck go cheer for somebody down the road then" -JP
It was on the twitter somewhere
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
I wouldn't mind seeing Butler house these guys.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 9:52 PM CDT reply actions 1 recs
I hate Wiscy
and I hate the overrated big 10.
oh hail the Purple and White
Even if we would have gotten past Wisky...
i’m not sure we would have beaten Butler…They are so tough.
by WillieWannabe on Mar 24, 2011 9:53 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
I think they are
the most disciplined team, both on offense and defense, in the game today. Even better than Duke. They just execute on a very consistent basis.
oh hail the Purple and White
Agree
You have to have veterans to beat them. They would have chewed up our frosh/sophs and spit them out like gristle.
Wiscy now has 7 turnovers
and they had a total of 5, in the whole f/in game against us. Bastards!
oh hail the Purple and White
ha
Coach_BoPelini Fake Bo Pelini
I sort of like Butler’s coach, but I also sort of want to punch him in the face
I think Bo Pelini posts under Fake Bo Pelini
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
Bo is the BIGGEST d/bag in all of college sports
and I am so glad the a/holes are gone.
oh hail the Purple and White
The biggest d/bag in all of college sports?
Scott Drew says hello.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:00 PM CDT up reply actions
Jesus Christ, this game looks like a 5A state tournament game.
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
not so quick with that insult
The time for calm and rational discourse is past, now is the time for senseless bickering -Anonymous the Younger
by Anon_the_younger on Mar 24, 2011 11:06 PM CDT up reply actions
And of course, Wisky is 4 of 8 from the charity stripe right now.
Did I say Butler practices voodoo?
Make that full-blown witchcraft and warlockery.
I just heard
KSU and ugliest game you will ever see….. Which game were they talking about? vs Butler or vs Wisc
"To all the fake fans that just jump on and off the bandwagon who think we suck go cheer for somebody down the road then" -JP
I thought he said Penn State,
but I could be wrong. The KSU game was not ugly – 8 turnovers for us and 5 for them, decent free throw shooting.
oh hail the Purple and White
Yeah, pretty sure it was PSU/Wiscy.
That was uglier than the junior high girls’ games I coached back when I first started. Just brutal.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:05 PM CDT up reply actions
"Wisconsin playing, frankly, right now with zero energy."
Yes, Gus, it’s the nature of the Butler voodoo. You are feeling very sleepy…
Brad Stevens is a basketball god,
hidden in the body of a nerdy accountant.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:04 PM CDT reply actions 1 recs
And he does this with a bunch of 2 stars, at most
it is amazing. He gets them to play as a team as well as John Wooden did; but Wooden had TALENT out the wazzoo.
oh hail the Purple and White
Butler recruits a little better than 2 stars...
but yeah, definitely less talented than mostly everyone else in the sweet 16.
by WillieWannabe on Mar 24, 2011 10:08 PM CDT up reply actions
Stevens's recruiting ability is underrated.
Gordon Hayward was a 3*, and Matt Howard was a 4*.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:08 PM CDT up reply actions
Shelvin Mack = 3* as well.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:09 PM CDT up reply actions
Okay, he does it with several 3 stars; still, pretty amazing.
oh hail the Purple and White
And a 4*.
But yeah, pretty amazing.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:11 PM CDT up reply actions
Son of a bitch. Arizona had to make it interesting.
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
Pretty cool picture
"To all the fake fans that just jump on and off the bandwagon who think we suck go cheer for somebody down the road then" -JP
You know what's gonna be glorious?
Seeing Butler beat KU in the Final Four.
The look on Self’s face as a fresh-faced 16-year-old coaches circles around him will be precious to watch.
On Wally
I’ve seen some speculation or hope that he may be back. I rarely do this, but I’ve heard it from a very good source that he needs to get out of town. He won’t be back, and it wasn’t his neck; and yes, he was under amazing stress. I can’t and won’t go into it more, but we need to forget about the idea that he will be back. We need to wish him good luck.
oh hail the Purple and White
Well, shit. All of my brackets may be busted tonight.
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
Friggin' Duke
Looks like K might go down in the Sweet 16 again.
Fun fact: Since 2000, Duke has only advanced past this round in years that are multiples of 3, e.g. 2001, 2004, 2007, 2010.
Which is why I had them losing in this round in my original bracket, but it was to Texas, not Arizona. D’oh.
OT: My Twitter following has blown up over 7 times since I went ballistic on Robinett.
Of course, that only entails going from 3 followers to 22, so…
I used to only use Twitter to look for news and stuff. Now I actually post there. Never thought that would happen until Robinett did what he did to Jake.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:22 PM CDT reply actions
at least a misdemeanor
oh hail the Purple and White
Bo is a douche.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:24 PM CDT reply actions
Bo knows women's genital cleansing products.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:25 PM CDT reply actions
Did I remember to mention him in the Slate today?
I’m too effing lazy to click “Home” and check.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:26 PM CDT up reply actions
I know some other folks we know would say otherwise...
But I want him.
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
I'd like to trade him straight up for Myles.
by WillieWannabe on Mar 24, 2011 10:29 PM CDT up reply actions
I'll not divulge who I would trade him for, but there are a few names on that list.
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
I will divulge mine:
Martavious for Jones, straight up.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:32 PM CDT up reply actions
See how Butler just plays straight up man defense
none of that cheatin to one side, giving up the back door.
oh hail the Purple and White
crap, an injury
I hate injuries
oh hail the Purple and White
I think he was as much scared as anything.
I’m betting he’ll be back.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:29 PM CDT up reply actions
at least next game, assuming they win
but if it’s a high ankle spain the swelling will take too long to come down.
oh hail the Purple and White
High ankle sprains come when you roll your ankle the opposite direction.
That time, he rolled his ankle pretty “normally”, for lack of a better word.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:31 PM CDT up reply actions
looks to be an ankle...
instead of a knee.
by WillieWannabe on Mar 24, 2011 10:31 PM CDT up reply actions
Yup.
Rolled it good.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:41 PM CDT up reply actions
He rolled his ankle pretty good.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:28 PM CDT reply actions
Butler isn't doing a lot defensively that we didn't do.
Wiscy’s just missing. This pisses me off.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:31 PM CDT reply actions
I just hate that an above-average B10 ten, with no chance to win it all,
got lucky against us.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:33 PM CDT up reply actions
KU 88 is all I'm going to say
that sucked.
Losing to UW-M also stunk.
The time for calm and rational discourse is past, now is the time for senseless bickering -Anonymous the Younger
by Anon_the_younger on Mar 24, 2011 11:17 PM CDT up reply actions
It's been a long time since I've straight up rooted for Duke with my gut. Feels wierd.
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
Why now?
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:33 PM CDT up reply actions
I stand to win a lot of money.
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
Ah, I see.
My sense of cosmic justice won’t allow me to pick Dook to win it all this year.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:35 PM CDT up reply actions
IMO
its either Duke or KU. (both choices suck)
"To all the fake fans that just jump on and off the bandwagon who think we suck go cheer for somebody down the road then" -JP
They're going to lose to Kentucky tomorrow.
Watch it happen.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:37 PM CDT up reply actions
On paper, I agree totally
I’m not convinced yet that Motta’s a big time coach (even though he’s finished #1 before).
oh hail the Purple and White
Duke won't win it all this year - they ain't that good
and they are down 12 to Zona -
oh hail the Purple and White
I have nothing against Duke. I was a Duke fan for a long time before I went to K-State.
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
Derrick Williams is a grown-ass man.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:36 PM CDT reply actions
Let's be fair...Arizona is not this good.
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
They're two points worse than Texas.
For whatever that’s worth.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:39 PM CDT up reply actions
Yes
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
How the HELL is that not a foul on the ginger?!?
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:38 PM CDT reply actions
I mean, he f---ing hip-checked him into the scorer's table!
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:40 PM CDT up reply actions
And I never thought I'd see Duke's "will" broken - I love it!
oh hail the Purple and White
Wiscy is getting wide open 3s,
and just f—-ing missing them. Leuer is freaking 1 for 10?!?
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:42 PM CDT reply actions
WOW. AZ player leveled Duke player in the lane and no charge...
someone got DVR so it can be explained to me
"To all the fake fans that just jump on and off the bandwagon who think we suck go cheer for somebody down the road then" -JP
Anyone ever been to the University of Arizona? It's a fucking pit.
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
yes - and I agree - Tucson is a pit too.
oh hail the Purple and White
My cousin lived out there for 7 or 8 years.
He’s a bit Zona fan, and would probably fight you for what you posted there! :)
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:47 PM CDT up reply actions
If he lives in Tucson, he moved there because he has tuberculosis. No one would move there unless medically necessary.
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
He lived somewhere between Tucson and Phoenix,
and sold real estate out there. Had Arizona season tickets.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:49 PM CDT up reply actions
ick
desert, dust storms … not much to recommend that section of AZ.
The time for calm and rational discourse is past, now is the time for senseless bickering -Anonymous the Younger
by Anon_the_younger on Mar 24, 2011 11:20 PM CDT up reply actions
He made some serious coin before the bubble burst.
Especially with his work in the Phoenix area.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 11:22 PM CDT up reply actions
I can believe it
I worked with a couple of folks who owed twice what their house was worth.
very glad I did not buy in FL.
The time for calm and rational discourse is past, now is the time for senseless bickering -Anonymous the Younger
by Anon_the_younger on Mar 24, 2011 11:28 PM CDT up reply actions
Arizona State is where it's at...
at least the hotties anyway.
by WillieWannabe on Mar 24, 2011 10:48 PM CDT up reply actions
I hope I am not beating a dead horse, and maybe most get it,
but this Butler defense is the best executed “straight up” man I’ve seen in a long while. Now, I’m not baggin on Frank’s d, because it is obvioulsy a strength of our team; but I don’t get his refusal to adjust it – get away from the big overplay, when the other team has the personnel to torch us (ala, Burks and Higgins, CU).
oh hail the Purple and White
Butler plays good D, no doubt.
But Wiscy is just straight up missing shots they made last Saturday.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:48 PM CDT up reply actions
I'm beginning to believe Stevens has sold his fresh-faced soul to the devil.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:51 PM CDT up reply actions
But Butler has given up no easy back doors,
we did. Butler just wears you out by never being out of position; and they are always in position to give “help” when needed. I’m just not a huge fan of the the big overplay, cut off every passing lane on the court type of defense. Too easy to give up easy buckets .
oh hail the Purple and White
Not a big fan of "overplay all over" either, but
Wiscy’s even missing bunnies.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:53 PM CDT up reply actions
The other thing about "straight up man"
is you are in a better position to block out your man for rebounding. You just are. It just hit me that’s why Butler is always in good position to get the rebound.
oh hail the Purple and White
Smith is back from his injury
oh hail the Purple and White
Someone here called that... ;)
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:47 PM CDT up reply actions
yes, you did.
oh hail the Purple and White
His ankle will be stiff as HELL tomorrow, though.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:49 PM CDT up reply actions
If Wiscy plays like this against us last saturday, we win by 30 points.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:50 PM CDT reply actions 1 recs
as of right now
Pullen had more vs them then they have as a team….
"To all the fake fans that just jump on and off the bandwagon who think we suck go cheer for somebody down the road then" -JP
Well, that's it. I now officially don't give a shit how the rest of this tournament ends. See everyone in September.
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
Actually, I think I'm going to adopt Butler now.
There’s not NEARLY the baggage with them this year as there was last.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:54 PM CDT up reply actions
Yeah, it's easy to cheer for them when they didn't just steal my favorite team's chance to go to the Final Four.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:59 PM CDT up reply actions
+1
How great would it be if little old Butler won the whole thing? I mean, that would be better than the movie Hoosiers! And that’s my favorite sports movie of all time.
oh hail the Purple and White
I completely agree.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:58 PM CDT up reply actions
Would have been much better if they did it last year in Indianapolis.
That had Hollywood written all over it.
Another reason I hate Duke!
oh hail the Purple and White
I couldn't cheer for them last year, though.
The wound was too fresh.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 11:06 PM CDT up reply actions
I always want the team that beat KSU to do well (except Wisky)
I don’t understand this dislike I have for Wisky.
oh hail the Purple and White
I just felt like last year was our year to go to the FF.
And Butler stole that from us.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 11:11 PM CDT up reply actions
The stupid ref who didn't call the foul in the Xavier game
was who robbed us. No two OTs and we beat Butler.
oh hail the Purple and White
My dislike is cuz they rob us
of good players—- Beas, Walker, Pullen
"To all the fake fans that just jump on and off the bandwagon who think we suck go cheer for somebody down the road then" -JP
Duke has outscored Arizona 52-28 this half. That's just stunning.
I still can’t believe how fast this game flipped. It was like a storm blew in.
DukeArizona
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:55 PM CDT up reply actions
Well, THAT didn't work. Tried to make an arrow.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:56 PM CDT up reply actions
Yes, I did. But why pass up a good opportunity to harangue?
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 10:58 PM CDT up reply actions
Taylor is just a punk.
I don’t like that kid at all.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 11:01 PM CDT reply actions
That Coach Stevens has the exact same demeanor on the bench as John Wooden
the kid could end up being in company like that.
oh hail the Purple and White
Yea, I've seen alot of 'em. Wooden was just a pure ass genius - and I
think it was his disposition; his consistency. And again, it didn’t hurt that he had a ton of talent.
oh hail the Purple and White
What is an "ass genius" and how does one get to be "pure" at it?
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 11:14 PM CDT up reply actions
his shit didn't stink
oh hail the Purple and White
Wooden
Wooden is/was very methodical and kept records like a scientist. Reading one of his biographies, my thought was he would fit in with many engineers/physics/chemists in how he approached/approaches basketball.
The time for calm and rational discourse is past, now is the time for senseless bickering -Anonymous the Younger
by Anon_the_younger on Mar 24, 2011 11:23 PM CDT up reply actions
I hope he stays at Butler
for life, and gets to about 7 final fours and wins 3 titles. I mean, how great would that be for small town America (even though the school is in Indy)
oh hail the Purple and White
hopefully not a cheater and racist that Wooden was.
(supposedly)
by WillieWannabe on Mar 24, 2011 11:12 PM CDT up reply actions
He was neither.
There’s a WHOLE lotta jealousy from folks who got beat regularly back then.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 11:14 PM CDT up reply actions
I thought Kareem admitted to taking money or something in a book.
Could be wrong, as it might be made up.
by WillieWannabe on Mar 24, 2011 11:18 PM CDT up reply actions
There was a booster who did that stuff,
but no one’s ever tied it to the Coach.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 11:22 PM CDT up reply actions
yep
that is what I’ve heard, but not even sure of that source
The time for calm and rational discourse is past, now is the time for senseless bickering -Anonymous the Younger
by Anon_the_younger on Mar 24, 2011 11:27 PM CDT up reply actions
You have to remember the era
Wooden grew up in, and in Indiana (birthplace of the Klan). I’ve never heard Wooden was a racist. I am sure by the end of his life he wasn’t. Those kids would not have played for him like that if he was.
oh hail the Purple and White
That's true enough,
but I doubt Coach Wooden ever got a running start to a back-bump with Lew Alcindor in the lockerroom after the game! :)
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 11:12 PM CDT up reply actions
Might Butler experience some "anal tightening" now?
Being up big, and letting it get to single digits can be psychologically wearing.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 11:17 PM CDT reply actions
Looks like yes.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 11:18 PM CDT up reply actions
Gus, with the CALL
he’s the best!
oh hail the Purple and White
After not being able to hit the broad side of a barn for the first 13 minutes of this half, Wisky is on a 17-4 run.
Nice choke job, Butler.
Butler got complacent because it had been too easy
oh hail the Purple and White
Never off-topic.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 11:23 PM CDT up reply actions
True enough.
But that’s not an insult to either. Different strokes for different folks.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 11:25 PM CDT up reply actions
oh i know
I believe he means sideline demeanor. Pretty sure he loves Frank.
by WillieWannabe on Mar 24, 2011 11:26 PM CDT up reply actions
Compare his "Senior Exit" to Jake's.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 11:28 PM CDT up reply actions
I thought the exact same thing last night
and it made me feel better. Jake didn’t deserve to lose that game, but I’m glad he went out on fire tying a career high in points, doing everything he could to prevent his team from losing instead of going 1-12 and fouling out with 3 points.
I would't be surprised to see MU go after Bo Ryan
he’s a lot like Norm Stewart. MU types would love him. And if he came to the B/12, we could start beatin his ass regularly.
oh hail the Purple and White
Norm was good
and entertaining.
The time for calm and rational discourse is past, now is the time for senseless bickering -Anonymous the Younger
by Anon_the_younger on Mar 24, 2011 11:29 PM CDT up reply actions
Talk about a polar opposite from Anderson.
They would absolutely suck for a year or more because the LAST thing the current players there know how to do is defend in the halfcourt or milk the shot clock.
Well, I was 0-for-4 in my Second Chance effort.
If this epic shittiness continues, look for KU to lose to Richmond and Kentucky to knock off tOSU.
if that is all that was required
I know how I’d want you to fill out your bracket every year.
The time for calm and rational discourse is past, now is the time for senseless bickering -Anonymous the Younger
by Anon_the_younger on Mar 24, 2011 11:31 PM CDT up reply actions
4 and frickin' 0 here, baby!
/jerseypopping
//doucheybracketdude
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 24, 2011 11:32 PM CDT up reply actions
mine stink so bad
next year I’m picking based on mascots.
The time for calm and rational discourse is past, now is the time for senseless bickering -Anonymous the Younger
by Anon_the_younger on Mar 24, 2011 11:37 PM CDT up reply actions
Brad Stevens
Dude looks young but can coach really well.
Starting to become a Butler fan.
The time for calm and rational discourse is past, now is the time for senseless bickering -Anonymous the Younger
by Anon_the_younger on Mar 24, 2011 11:30 PM CDT reply actions
So, let's examine something.
I asked this question elsewhere without the following caveat, and was pretty much handwaved without any discussion. So, the caveat:
Let’s remember that Gonzaga has, up until this year, pretty much steamrolled the WCC in the regular season; they’ve won the regular season title every year but one since 1997, and they won the conference tourney in that one exceptional year. St. Mary’s has been good enough to grab an at-large twice in that span, but other than that the rest of the conference has been mediocre as hell.
Now, if Butler beats Florida, and thus reaches the Final Four for the second consecutive year (a far better result than Gonzaga ever achieved, mind you) — or even if they don’t, to be honest — taking into account the fact that Butler got knocked around a bit in conference play, the question is: is it time to start take the Horizon League seriously?
There’s some other things in play here, too; remember that UW-Milwaukee has been successful when they’ve reached the tournament, Cleveland State punked Wake a couple of years ago, and then there’s Valpo, although their notable runs preceded their move to the league. In short, the conference has had a ridiculous amount of success in the tournament compared to its overall profile. And this is despite the fact that since Xavier left the conference, they’ve only received five at-large bids — three of which were the result of Butler being a lock but failing to win the conference tournament. (The other two were in the wacky 1998 tournament, when Butler won the conference tournament while both Detroit and UIC got at-large bids.)
Ultimately, considering the conference’s ability to compete on the national stage when March rolls around, I just have to wonder: why the hell weren’t Cleveland State and Valparaiso even in the bubble discussion? I’m not arguing that they deserved to get in over, oh, say, USC or UAB. (Well, yeah I am. But that ignores the Colorado/Virginia Tech situation, and I don’t know that I’d have selected the Horizon also-rans over those two teams.) But when your best team is not only routinely reaching the Sweet Sixteen, but is suddenly looking at consecutive Final Four appearances, and the other good teams in the conference are actually competitive with them… I think maybe it’s time to re-evaluate the perception of the conference, because the mainstream opinion is still that they’re “a one-bid league unless Butler chokes in the conference tourney”, and I think that’s largely bullshit at this point.
My new blog: Those Other Guys. Critiques welcome.
Short view (this year)
Cleveland State SHOULD have been in bubble discussions at least, but shouldn’t have gotten in. The average of their RPI, Sagarin, and Pomeroy ranks was 58. Valpo wasn’t even CLOSE to the bubble. The average of their three ranks was 88.33. As for the league, if they want to be taken more seriously, their toughest teams have to schedule better in the non-con, like Butler does. The middle to bottom of that conference is awful. And while Butler could probably compete in the Big 12, even given the grind, a team like Cleveland State might get to somewhere around 8-8, and a team like Valpo would do well to be Okie State this year. Milwaukee would probably do about like Cleveland. The rest of the teams seem like Texas Tech or worse.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 25, 2011 4:08 AM CDT up reply actions
Warning, warning, danger
I agree with you across the board here.
That said, when I say “take them seriously” I wasn’t talking about elevating them to the level of the Big Six, but to the level of the Little Six.
This isn’t new, either; the league was unfairly disrespected even when their lineup included Xavier, Dayton, St. Louis, and Marquette. In 1995, Xavier ran the table in the league and got a 14 seed as an at-large for their trouble (Green Bay won the tournament). This was a mere year after Xavier had appeared in the Elite Eight, mind you. Once those teams left, mainstream opinion seemed to completely write the league off (despite that 1998 season when they yanked two at-large bids) as a one-trick pony, first with Green Bay then with Butler.
Basically, in mainstream opinion it seems like we’ve had the Big Six, then another tier consisting of the “Little Four” (A-10, CUSA, CAA, and MWC), a third tier consisting of conferences whose regular-season champions are routinely in the bubble discussion (but except for Gonzaga almost never locks, and often left out in the end; these include the WCC, MVC*, Horizon, the MAAC, the SoCon, the WAC, the MAC, maybe a couple of others), and then the rest (sure, next time the SWAC regular-season champion is on bubble watch, wake me up).
(* – The MVC, of course, is a weird case. It seems like they bounce around from being a one-bid league to being a four-bid league, and it’s maddening. But it’s far more common for them to send a 25-win team to the NIT than for them to have multiple bids.)
I could have discussed the WCC in exactly the same terms I’m discussing the Horizon now, to be honest; the addition of BYU immediately moves them up into the “Little Five”, especially considering continued improvements at Portland and San Francisco. But this is a change in status that nobody questions, so it’s not worth debating. The moment BYU joined the WCC, the presumption was that they were probably going to be capable of getting at least one if not two at-large bids every year.
So my point, having tortured this post long enough, is this: shouldn’t the mainstream be elevating the Horizon to the next tier? Aren’t they clearly one of the “Little Six” now, demonstrably a level above the other leagues it’s currently lumped in with?
My new blog: Those Other Guys. Critiques welcome.
BTW, stop and think about what you just said:
You think Cleveland and Milwaukee and Valpo would be NIT teams if they were in the Big 12. Really, that’s pretty darned complimentary, don’t you think? ;)
(Of course, if they were in the Big 12, their revenues and budgets would inflate dramatically, and they’d almost certainly be able to improve enough due to higher-profile recruiting to probably be NCAA teams, not NIT teams. The part of me that believes sports should be socialist within closed sets really wishes there were budget caps within divisions…)
My new blog: Those Other Guys. Critiques welcome.
I don't have a real problem elevating the Horizon to that next tier.
But the only team who is CONSISTENTLY at that level in the league is Butler right now, so I’m not convinced that the Horizon is any better than the MVC.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Mar 25, 2011 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions
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