XAVIER vs BUTLER

[MADXSTER]

1589 vs 1590


Xavier University Musketeers (11-4) (2-1)
W Northern Arizona 93-60 Preseason pick was 3rd in Big Sky
W Long Beach State 97-74 Preseason pick was 3rd in Big West
W Stephen F Austin 81-63 Preseason pick was 1st in Southland
W Murray State 89-62 Preseason pick was 1st in OVC
W San Diego Toreros 82-71 Preseason pick was 5th in WCC
L UTEP Miners 77-73 Preseason pick was 2nd in CUSA
L Long Beach State 73-70 Preseason pick was 3rd in Big West
W Alabama 97-84 Preseason pick was 10th in the SEC
W IUPUI Jaquars 66-43
W Missouri Tigers 74-58 Preseason pick was 7th in the SEC
L Auburn Tigers 89-88 2OT
W Florida Gulf Coast 71-57 Preseason pick was 1st
W Georgetown Hoyas 70-53
L DePaul Blue Demons 71-68
W Seton Hall Pirates (12-2) (2-0)

vs Butler Bulldogs (11-5) (1-2)

W Maine H 99-57
W Chattanooga H 70-48
W Loyola MD H 80-39
W North Carolina N 66-74
L Oklahoma N 59-46
W Georgetown N 58-64
W Indiana St. A 54-77
W Northwestern H 65-56
W Kennesaw St. H 93-51
L Tennessee A 67-55
L Indiana N 82-73
W Tennessee Martin H 64-37
W Belmont H 67-56
L Villanova A 67-55
W St. John's A 69-73
L Providence H 62-66



Saturday Jan. 10, 2014 4:30 p.m. ET at Hinkle Fieldhouse
Television: Fox Sports 1
Radio: 550 WKRC

[gladdenguy]

I thought this game was on Fox Sports 1????

[LA Muskie]

I thought this game was on Fox Sports 1????

It is (at least according to the GoXavier.com website). I think it initially may have been scheduled as a CBS SN game and later switched over to FS1.

[xu82]

I thought this game was on Fox Sports 1????

This worried me, but the guide on my parents TV in FL where I'm visiting shows the game on FS1. I hope it's accurate. At Least it's a decent hour to go out to see a game, but it's up against the NFL playoffs which may create a little push back at the wrong bar - need plenty of TV's. (They don't get CBSsn!)

[MADXSTER]

It is Fox Sports 1. Fixed it.

Now let's focus on hating Butler, shall we.

[MADXSTER]

In the spirit of hating on Butler, Answer this question....

Why did the chicken cross the road?

[xu82]

In the spirit of hating on Butler, Answer this question....

Why did the chicken cross the road?

No one knows for sure. We also don't know how long it took.... the clock was broken.

[Nildogg]

In the spirit of hating on Butler, Answer this question....

Why did the chicken cross the road?

I can't hate any comments you make because I love your profile pic. Definitely the best thing bout this site.

Oh, and for the chicken... because he got off of the Xavier bus and didn't want the ass spanking he was about to get? ;)

[American X]

Winning at Butler should provide a nice RPI boost (cue RPI debate).

I would like to see Remy Abell on the floor for as many minutes as he can handle, somewhere around 40 would be great.

I would also like to see more minutes for J.P. Macura, freshman mistakes and all. He is just so active everywhere on the court. Opposing fans will really come to despise him over his career. If he were on another team, I would label him a 'pest'.

[Kahns Krazy]

We need to play another 40 minute game like we did Wednesday. It wouldn't hurt to have a hot shooting day from beyond the arc either. I don't hate Butler as much as some do, but beating them is always more enjoyable than an average win. We need to shut them up.

[Xville]

I have no clue why I feel this way, but I think we win this game by 10 or more. I'd like to think that this Xavier's team has finally turned the corner...we shall see if my inclinations are correct Saturday!

[nuts4xu]

http://sd.keepcalm-o-matic.co.uk/i/keep-calm-and-zip-em-up-7.png

[ArizonaXUGrad]

I am sure there are a ton of other posts about Macura, but here is mine. He is the single biggest surprise of this class for me. I knew Blueitt was going to be good. I had seen and heard good things about O'Mara and knew he would be a project. I am a tad disappointed in Sumner, the kid can't keep guys in front of him on defense. I know it will come but neither he nor Austin look like anything special right now (that said Mack is going for PGs in 2016 and has offered a few already).

Macura was the ultimate unknown for me, no acquaintance of mine in the basketball world really knew anything about him. Kid comes in and plays hard, uses his length wisely, makes freshman mistakes but they all do, shoots good, and seems just like kind of player we have missed for a while. If he improves throughout his career, he is going to be a kid we remember.

[X Factor]

I am sure there are a ton of other posts about Macura, but here is mine. He is the single biggest surprise of this class for me. I knew Blueitt was going to be good. I had seen and heard good things about O'Mara and knew he would be a project. I am a tad disappointed in Sumner, the kid can't keep guys in front of him on defense. I know it will come but neither he nor Austin look like anything special right now (that said Mack is going for PGs in 2016 and has offered a few already).

Macura was the ultimate unknown for me, no acquaintance of mine in the basketball world really knew anything about him. Kid comes in and plays hard, uses his length wisely, makes freshman mistakes but they all do, shoots good, and seems just like kind of player we have missed for a while. If he improves throughout his career, he is going to be a kid we remember.


To be fair to Sumner, he battled some pretty severe tendinitis before the season started that really set him back. We didn't see Sumner anywhere close to what he is capable of. He is going to be a stud for X, and will see a lot of minutes next year. 6'5 guard with speed and athleticism to burn.

I agree about JP though. Really like his energy and carefree style of play.

[xufan2434]

Watching JP hit the step back game winner for the state championship his senior year gave me some promise.. However, yes. I didn't think or know he would be this effective so far.

In terms of Butler.. I see the game coming down to whether or not X can calm the storm. I think the first half goes back and forth with X possibly leading at the break. But then I can see Butler making a run with a couple 3 balls probably from Dunham. How X responds to that will determine whether they win or not. I think both teams are going to be ready to play. I do think if there's one place for X to get over the hump it's at Butler where they're somewhat comfortable and excited cause it's a rival.

[bleedXblue]

To be fair to Sumner, he battled some pretty severe tendinitis before the season started that really set him back. We didn't see Sumner anywhere close to what he is capable of. He is going to be a stud for X, and will see a lot of minutes next year. 6'5 guard with speed and athleticism to burn.

I agree about JP though. Really like his energy and carefree style of play.

Agreed. Gotta give Sumner a pass...he's going to be good.

JP has missed some shots badly the last few games. Would really like to see him knock down 2-3 tomorrow.

[94GRAD]

http://sd.keepcalm-o-matic.co.uk/i/keep-calm-and-zip-em-up-7.png

If this was your doing, you need to sell these T-Shirts!!!!!

[Masterofreality]

In the spirit of hating on Butler, Answer this question....

Why did the chicken cross the road?


No one knows for sure. We also don't know how long it took.... the clock was broken.

HA!
The Rep Foreman Overseer is whipping me into submission, otherwise I'd be spreading them things like Peanut Butter.

[Masterofreality]

I can't wait to see Remy Abel crush the spirit of Sissy Boy Dunham, the mouth breather, by sucking all the oxygen out of his personal space for a full 40 minutes. Xavier has smothered Dunham in every case since he's been there....and that was before Remy ever showed up. This is going to be hilarious to watch as Dunham heaves clanging bombs off the backboard in a feeble attempt to dent the scorebook. More likely he'll dent the facade of the hayloft deck behind the basket in the barn with one of his mortar shells. Dunham may as well send the wrappers of his gum over to Remy in the locker room before the game, because 30 seconds in, Remy will know the brand anyway.

Also, anyone with freaking Alex Barlow as the starting point guard cannot, and will not be taken seriously. The guy had the game of his life against North Carolina and it is impossible to repeat that fantasy show. Alex Barlow? Really? Hell, I'd take Bitter Beer Face Keenan Christiansen over that piker. he has a typical Indiana corn pone haircut too.

Finally Roosevelt Jones, the guy who has deer antlers for teeth. Damn kid get some Visiline or something. It's disturbing to see your Uvula when your dentures are clenched. His free brick percentage of barely over 50% is impressive too.

Tell me why Butler is in this league again?

[XUFan09]

I bet Dee usually guards Dunham, while Remy has Jones.

[Masterofreality]

I bet Dee usually guards Dunham, while Remy has Jones.

Can't see Trevon guarding Barlow.

[xu82]

If this was your doing, you need to sell these T-Shirts!!!!!

If it wasn't your doing, you should have them printed by the guy who did the Dead shirts!

[xufan2434]

Can't see Trevon guarding Barlow.

Trevon is easily the weakest defender among Dee and Remy..

Why not let him guard Barlow? He'll be bigger than him and cause trouble in starting the offense. I know what you're saying but Dee has Dunham's number so I think he's earned that matchup. And Remy needs to be on one of the 2 between Dunham and Jones so there's no real option.

I imagine X will be doing a lot of switching anyway so I'm not sure how much it will matter.

[ammtd34]

I wouldn't mind Trevon guarding Jones. He's terrible outside of 10 feet. Trevon can help off of him if he needs to.

[Nigel Tufnel]

Looks like Vegas opened the line at Butler -3. Be interesting to see who the public likes and where this line goes by 4:30 p.m. tomorrow.

[XUFan09]

Can't see Trevon guarding Barlow.
I really can't see Trevon guarding Jones.

[RedsX11]

I don't see how we are a 3 point underdog here. I realize that Butler is certainly capable and if the team that played UNC shows up, we are in for it. But I think we are the better team here, pretty convincingly. I think we get out with somewhere between 7 and 13 points.

[bobbiemcgee]

I don't see how we are a 3 point underdog here.

Maybe cuz we suck on the road.

[RedsX11]

Maybe cuz we suck on the road.

And that is a new theme for this season? And while I agree, I think that with this being a rivalry game we will actually not come out flat, for once this year.

[Nigel Tufnel]

I don't see how we are a 3 point underdog here. I realize that Butler is certainly capable and if the team that played UNC shows up, we are in for it. But I think we are the better team here, pretty convincingly. I think we get out with somewhere between 7 and 13 points.

I think the line shows that Vegas thinks X is the better team. Home court can be worth anywhere from 4-8 pts depending on the venue and circumstances. I think Butler's home court advantage in what could be considered a rivalry game is probably worth 5-7 points with Butler coming off the losses. I'm undecided whether to take X or pass. Will just need to see betting percentages and line movement before I decide. Of course, it's not like works more than 55% either. Still, I think the opening line makes sense.

Most thought the X line versus Seton Hall was too high at -8.5. But it was X at home coming off a DePaul loss playing a ranked team. I'd bet that Vegas thought that X's home court advantage was worth close to 8 points in that one. X covered.

[D-West & PO-Z]

In another thread someone mentioned parking sucks at Hinkle, I'll be going to the game tomorrow, first time going to Hinkle, anyone have any parking advice? Is it really that bad or will I find somewhere to park easily? Thanks for any help.

[kyxu]

In another thread someone mentioned parking sucks at Hinkle, I'll be going to the game tomorrow, first time going to Hinkle, anyone have any parking advice? Is it really that bad or will I find somewhere to park easily? Thanks for any help.

It's definitely not the worst. Hinkle is surrounded by a quaint little neighborhood, so you should be able to find parking on the street. Just may have to walk a little bit. May even have time to sell some of your Mary Kay.

[UCGRAD4X]

In the spirit of hating on Butler, Answer this question....

Why did the chicken cross the road?

If the road was W49.…to get to the 'renovated' chicken coop.

Or going the other way…it was a thirsty chicken and the drinking fountain was broken in the coop?

[RedsX11]

In another thread someone mentioned parking sucks at Hinkle, I'll be going to the game tomorrow, first time going to Hinkle, anyone have any parking advice? Is it really that bad or will I find somewhere to park easily? Thanks for any help.

I have been three times and I have used street parking twice and a surface lot twice. You will be fine. The parking just sucks for away fans because the lot closest to the abyss (fieldhouse) is for season passes.

[GuyFawkes38]

This a great opportunity for our first big road win. Will be a big test for our perimeter D. Can't let Dunham get too comfortable shooting 3's. Stop Roosevelt Jones. Butler is a tough defensive team. We need a big game from Bluiett.

[muethibp]

There's some seriously nice tickets - like second row by X bench - that have been released and can be seen on the ticketmaster map, if some people want to get in at the last minute.
http://www.ticketmaster.com/butler-bulldogs-mens-basketball-vs-xavier-indianapolis-indiana-01-10-2015/event/05004D07AC21255B?artistid=843548&majorcatid=10004&minorcatid=7

[WCWIII]

Leaving now from Chicago. Let's go X!

[Masterofreality]

Leaving now from Chicago. Let's go X!

Get that win W! I'll try to take care of Villanova.

[Smooth]

I have been three times and I have used street parking twice and a surface lot twice. You will be fine. The parking just sucks for away fans because the lot closest to the abyss (fieldhouse) is for season passes.

Starting a little early today?

[MADXSTER]

Dee needs to stay out of foul trouble

Xavier needs to rebound. Xavier has had their problems against smaller teams' quickness so they need to rebound to keep the second chances to a minimum.

Homecoming....Dee Davis, Trevon Bluiett, Remy Abel

[XUFan09]

What the hell is a "beer truck driver" type of center?

[smileyy]

Announcer using points per game to measure offense and defense. Sigh.

[Masterofreality]

I bet Dee usually guards Dunham, while Remy has Jones.

Remy on Dunham, Dee on Barlow.

And Remy in his freaking jock.

[xu82]

What the hell is a "beer truck driver" type of center?

I'm not sure, but I'd be OK if he stopped by the house.

[paulxu]

What's with FSPN. They can't be bothered with our box score/play-by-play?

[smileyy]

If you mean ESPN, I assume its some petulance towards Fox Sports. foxsports.com has a nice game tracker though.

[xu82]

Seems like we're running up the foul count. Hope that continues on the road.

[spursy]

Larry Austin?

[RealDeal]

Stain needs to get it going.

[mohr5150]

Take care of the damn ball.

[paulxu]

If the tracker is right, we have 4 TO's and 0 assists. They have 0 TO's and 3 assists.
That is not the way to win a game.
(obviously I can't see the game right now)

[nasdadjr]

Stain brook looks like a mess early in this game

[nasdadjr]

Stain brook is 0-3 and has not touched the rim once

[paulxu]

Come on Muskies. Get this thing.

[Masterofreality]

Chripes, Butler is a hack machine.

We'd better make our frees.

[xsteve1]

The way Stainbrook is playing I hope Mack starts reducing his minutes.

[nasdadjr]

Butler can't stop Jalen they just don't have the horses to do it

[mohr5150]

Three starters with two fouls. We need to take advantage of this situation now.

[paulxu]

Nova bringing DePaul back to reality.

[Masterofreality]

Why press with Macura on the floor. Gave them a gift basket.

[mistabeecee41]

Go zone.

[xsteve1]

Why do they still have Matt hedging?

[Masterofreality]

And STOP Hedging on Barlow!

[Masterofreality]

C'mon ref. Call the obvious push off by Dunham.

[mistabeecee41]

stain closeouts make me cringe

[paulxu]

It's not often we are down when we shoot 50%.

[bjf123]

That' was a foul? WTF?


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[paulxu]

Why foul Dunham when he's 0 fer?

[Masterofreality]

BS call. Dunham with the flail. There had better be a make up.

Dee didn't touch him.

[nasdadjr]

Real frustrating when butler has two offensive rebounds that bounced off the floor first. That should never happen

[nasdadjr]

Can't believe we are down at halftime with how bad butler looks

[bjf123]

Can't believe we are down at halftime with how bad butler looks

We don't exactly look good.


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[xsteve1]

Typical looking road game so far. Maybe being down at half X can cure X's road woes and they'll come out playing well.

[Masterofreality]

Dunham must have been watching film of Howard and Hayward on how to flail and cry and get stupid refs to blow the whistle.

All BS all the time.

[xavierj]

Butler is terrible. Anyone think Archie would be interested next year? We need another miller who can instill toughness and win on the road.

[XMuskieFTW]

With how butler is playing and the foul situation we should be up 10. Bad offense bad defense. Matt a non factor like the last month. Ugh frustrating.

[paulxu]

Since we have a grand total of 1 assist in the half, I'd guess we aren't playing good team ball. Just a guess.

[X-Fan]

BS call. Dunham with the flail. There had better be a make up.

Dee didn't touch him.
Ya, complete garbage.

Crazy stat that this is the first time X is down at half this season. I think that might actually help. In our losses we had good/decent halftime leads. Hopefully the guys come out with intensity in the 2nd half.

Also, interesting to see Austin get some time. Wasn't expecting to see him.

Let's Go Muskies!!!!

[Masterofreality]

Basically, Butler is grabbing, pushing and betting that the refs won't call everything. Then, on the other side, Dunham flails around and gets two cheap calls his way. I hope these zebras go back and watch a tape of the first half.

Dunham is such a punk. You would think that after seeing him play enough, these refs would be on to him.

[SkyWalker]

Mack needs to light a fire under someone's arse. Okay, maybe several fires.

[LA Muskie]

I feel good being this close heading into the 2nd half. All of our 1st half issues can be corrected. Box out on defense, hit our shots, and hit the offensive glass when we don't.

[paulxu]

Stop fouling Dunham until he makes a shot. He hasn't hit one yet.

[XU Cowbell Kid]

Basically, Butler is grabbing, pushing and betting that the refs won't call everything. Then, on the other side, Dunham flails around and gets two cheap calls his way. I hope these zebras go back and watch a tape of the first half.

Dunham is such a punk. You would think that after seeing him play enough, these refs would be on to him.

I hate games where the refs seem to blow the whistle on every play, but in this game I feel like there have been a significant amount of non-calls.

As an addendum: I'm only talking about non-calls against Butler. Xavier never fouls, so non-calls don't exist against us. :biggrin:

[nasdadjr]

Are we seriously bitching about the calls? You do realize we were in the bonus 8 min into half right? Double bonus with 7 to go. Refs are not the reason we are losing poor rebounding and stain brook looking clueless is

[nasdadjr]

I wanna see more Jalen this half. Come on mack play the hot hand

[American X]

I think it was an alright half for a conference road game.

The commitment to getting the ball into the post and getting them in foul trouble will win the game over 40 minutes. Giving up a few offensive rebounds in the difference in the halftime score.

[nasdadjr]

Finally stain get the damn train rolling this half

[xsteve1]

Need to put somebody else on Chrabash.

[xsteve1]

Butler out toughing us now.

[Masterofreality]

We are getting totally homered in this game. Two elbows to the head and there wasn't even a review?

[XMuskieFTW]

Fouling doesn't constitute defense. Gaaaah

[bjf123]

We're letting them take the momentum back.


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[xavierj]

We are getting totally homered in this game. Two elbows to the head and there wasn't even a review?

Come on now. Xavier is playing like wimps as they do often, especially on the road.

[xudash]

I don't know what to think. Butler is a bunch of hacks. But we should still be winning this game. I

[xsteve1]

Wednesday is going to be extremely ugly. I hope X at least competes in that one.

[mistabeecee41]

Ya, complete garbage.

Crazy stat that this is the first time X is down at half this season. I think that might actually help. In our losses we had good/decent halftime leads. Hopefully the guys come out with intensity in the 2nd half.

Also, interesting to see Austin get some time. Wasn't expecting to see him.

Let's Go Muskies!!!!


Come on now. Xavier is playing like wimps as they do often, especially on the road.

Hey, but dee, stain and Farr are nice guys and are friendly to the general public on campus.

[xsteve1]

Guys this is the Big East. Soft teams aren't allowed.

[xsteve1]

Stainbrook showing me something.

[XMuskieFTW]

Stainbrook having trouble out scoring our defense

[SM#24]

Huge 3 for Remy

[xsteve1]

Nice 3 from Remy. Hate the timeout. Rather save it when it's needed at end of game.

[mistabeecee41]

Please try zone for a few possessions.

[nasdadjr]

Let's get a damn stop defensively and get the rebound is that too hard

[xavierj]

Nice 3 from Remy. Hate the timeout.

Why? Every other time they hit a big shot butler answers. Timeout was smart.

[xsteve1]

Why? Every other time they hit a big shot butler answers. Timeout was smart.

Rather save it when it's needed at end of game.

[xavierj]

That miss kills.

[IM4X]

Why? Every other time they hit a big shot butler answers. Timeout was smart.

Can't stand that timeout off of a made bucket... WASTED.... STUPID!!!


This is the crap I keep posting about.


Hate your dumb strategy coach.

[XMuskieFTW]

Get a damn stop.

[xsteve1]

Another stupid t/o with a TV one coming.

[nasdadjr]

We're gonna give up 80 today. Man our defense blows

[xavierj]

I
Can't stand that timeout off of a made bucket... WASTED.... STUPID!!!


This is the crap I keep posting about.

Wrong. I am not a huge fan of chris coaching ability but the timeout wasn't stupid.
Hate your dumb strategy coach.

[mohr5150]

News Bulletin: we suck at defense.

[XMuskieFTW]

Pathetic.

[nasdadjr]

Butler is tougher we can't win this game it's now over

[Xville]

Awful defense on the road again...shocking

[bjf123]

Not looking good.


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[xsteve1]

Not going to get upset about our road woes. It is what it is. Just win all the home games.

[xudash]

Making Crabshit look all-world

[XU2011]

Mack's teams are so fun to watch away from Cintas!!!

[Xavier]

Another stupid t/o with a TV one coming.

Mack calls a Time out after a big bucket all the time. Killed momentum, butler goes on run.

[xavierj]

Miller time....

[nasdadjr]

We can't win cause we won't hold butler to zero points in 2 and a half minutes we have not been able to do that to anyone in the second half all year

[paulxu]

We've got the same # of 2's and 3's. Down 7 at the foul line.

[XU2011]

Not going to get upset about our road woes. It is what it is. Just win all the home games.

That will get us an invitation to the NIT. Pathetic following Mack's last 2 years

[nasdadjr]

Well we won't we will lose to villanova at home so we will be under 500 in conference cause we can't play d so we can't win on the road

[nasdadjr]

Already given up 32 points in 12 min

[mohr5150]

Can someone tell me why it is Mack's fault that, no matter who he puts in or what defense he runs, our players can't stop anyone?

[nasdadjr]

Every god damn miss is an offensive board

[IM4X]

I

Did you change my quote.

It was a crap timeout... Once again a bad momentum shift created by Mack. What exactly did his timeout accomplish other than stopping our positive momentum and positive momentum and a bigger margin for them?!!!

[xsteve1]

Can someone tell me why it is Mack's fault that, no matter who he puts in or what defense he runs, our players can't stop anyone?

How about playing a defense that suits your personnel. Matta is playing 90% zones this year and he's a man to man guy.

[bjf123]

Well we won't we will lose to villanova at home so we will be under 500 in conference cause we can't play d so we can't win on the road

No argument here.


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[nasdadjr]

Crabshit won't score 18 points in his next 4 games combined

[Xavier]

Xavier hasn't looked the same since that time out. Just stupid

[bjf123]

Every off balance shot they throw up is falling.


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[mistabeecee41]

Can someone tell me why it is Mack's fault that, no matter who he puts in or what defense he runs, our players can't stop anyone?

Because his defense continues to be shit and he changes absolutely nothing.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

These are our road woes. This is an NIT team if we don't win 3 on the road and this is #2 of the winnable road games and we are blowing it.

[nasdadjr]

Game over

[Masterofreality]

Too many second chances for Butler.

That is weak ish on us. This truly sucks being out tougher by these jerks.

[sirthought]

I want the Matt Stainbrook who was on scholarship.

[xsteve1]

Outhustled. outtoughed.

[XMuskieFTW]

Can't even get a damn rebound on a free throw. What a weak minded team

[bjf123]

Ballgame. Time to watch the NFL.


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[nasdadjr]

Won't even watch wednesday. Want some easy money bet the money line again x every road game rest of season I don't care what the odds are

[BMoreX]

Ugh

[GuyFawkes38]

Ugh. Overpowered by their seasoned, more physical backcourt.

We seem a bit soft. Too reliant on the 3.

[GoMuskies]

Defense is a four letter word for this team.

[XU2011]

2013: no post season
2014: loss in play in game
2015: NIT

worst 3 year stretch in Xavier basketball since 1991 I believe

For all you Mack apologists, year 4,5,6 of his tenure. Worse 3 year stretch in decades

[xsteve1]

Holtmann must be a dam good coach. X is definitely more talented.

[XU2011]

How this team is getting out rebounded by Butler is embarrassing.

I guess that's the new Xavier toughness.

[GoMuskies]

Can someone tell me why it is Mack's fault that, no matter who he puts in or what defense he runs, our players can't stop anyone?

He recruited all the players.

[Masterofreality]

Bluiett, Macura, Dee Davis and Myles Davis can't score on wide ass open 3's . There are no options.

Biggest part of this game is the horrific defensive rebounding. Yeah, the refs gave Dunham 5 gift points, but if we can't rebound the basketball, and make a few 3's we ain't winning.

Sucks, totally.

[sirthought]

Between two teams that look somewhat lost sometimes, Butler has clearly been more comfortable and has out work the Musketeers.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Weak, weak, weak, I am both really optimistic and depressed of this team. Mack needs a better defensive assistant coach. Either the one he has absolutely sucks or he sucks at teaching it.

[Xavier]

2013: no post season
2014: loss in play in game
2015: NIT

worst 3 year stretch in Xavier basketball since 1991 I believe

For all you Mack apologists, year 4,5,6 of his tenure. Worse 3 year stretch in decades

Or he could take x to sweet 16 and have 3 sweet 16s in 6 years. I don't love Mack but hate to point to potential future games as to why. That's weak

[Masterofreality]

2013: no post season Dez Wells Knucklehead
2014: loss in play in game NCAA Tournament
2015: NIT We don't know yet

worst 3 year stretch in Xavier basketball since 1991 I believe

For all you Mack apologists, year 4,5,6 of his tenure. Worse 3 year stretch in decades

Shut the F up. Season isn't over yet.

[danaandvictory]

Season high of points for Butler with four minutes left.

I'm still optimistic about the talent level but at some point you are what your results say.

[GuyFawkes38]

Holtmann must be a dam good coach. X is definitely more talented.

I don't know about that. They have a nice, experienced squad.

[sirthought]

Bluiett, Macura, Dee Davis and Myles Davis can't score on wide ass open 3's . There are no options.

I wonder if they've hit a physical wall like Davis did last year. If you're tired you lose your legs and can't shoot.

[gladdenguy]

This team is an absolute joke on the road. If you can't beat Butler or DePaul on the road odds are there won't be a road conference win
Pathetic.

[xudash]

Ugh. Overpowered by their seasoned, more physical backcourt.

We seem a bit soft. Too reliant on the 3.

S
O
F
T

Now I'm trulydisappointed in this team. I'm not giving up on them, but I am truly disappointed in this team today. They should have beaten these clowns.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

What is up with Brandon Randolph? What did I miss?

[xsteve1]

Season high of points for Butler with four minutes left.

I'm still optimistic about the talent level but at some point you are what your results say.

I'm worried we won't see the development. Macurra and Bluiett were better in November,

[mistabeecee41]

Late game frantic dee davis is hilarious to watch.

[Masterofreality]

22 second chance points in this game and 13 offensive rebounds.

We will get drilled at Villanova.

[GuyFawkes38]

The softest X team in a while? It works ok at home where you comfortably make 3s, but not on the road.

[SkyWalker]

How do you give up 80 points to Butler?

[XMuskieFTW]

No defense, no rebounding. Such a damn joke. Someone needs to light a defensive fire under all of their asses

[LA Muskie]

Butler's role players beat us. Chrabash, Barlow, Wideman... We don't seem very "deep" today. We bottled up their top scorer -- largely on the back of a single defender --but let everyone else beat us.

[xsteve1]

5-18 in our last 23 road games and it's very likely to get worse. I have no answer for how it will get better.

[nasdadjr]

I won't watch one minute of villanova game absolutely no point

[Porkopolis]

I honestly have no answer for why we are so bad on the road. Unfortunately neither does Coach Mack. Frustrating.

[nasdadjr]

5-19 just chalk up villanova as a loss right now

[Xavier_Musketeers]

We can't play defense plain and simple

[xavierj]

Chris mack = Skip Prosser on the road. Need to dial up Dayton, OH.

[nasdadjr]

Mack is the most over rated coach in the big east followed very closely by John thompson 3rd then Steve Lavin in that order

[xukeith]

Chalk up BE record to 9-9 or hopefully 10-8.
Can't seem to play well outside Cintas. Toughest league in the country.
Do we miss the A10?

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Seriously? 5 wins out of 23 road games? That is unforgivable. If that is true they need to consider replacing Coach Mack. The good coaches go at least .500 on the road not lose them all.

This isn't sky falling time, but this is definitely time for the school to "consider" a replacement if those are the true road numbers.

[Masterofreality]

We've lost 5 games and gotten drilled in the second half of every one. That is not a good look for the staff adjustments.

[sgarcia]

Chalk up BE record to 9-9 or hopefully 10-8.
Can't seem to play well outside Cintas. Toughest league in the country.
Do we miss the A10?

The ACC is much better.

[bjf123]

Do we miss the A10?

Yes.


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[xufan2020]

I'm so sick and tired of Chris Mack's yes man attitude on the sideline...
He preaches how this team needs to be tough...
Well DIPSHIT, light a fire under their ass. He lets them get away with piss poor defense, it disgusts me! Same BS EVERY TIME!!! Anybody know any rising young head coaches around the NCAA?

[ArizonaXUGrad]

I'm so sick and tired of Chris Mack's yes man attitude on the sideline...
He preaches how this team needs to be tough...
Well DIPSHIT, light a fire under their ass. He lets them get away with piss poor defense, it disgusts me! Same BS EVERY TIME!!! Anybody know any rising young head coaches around the NCAA?

I like Mack, but I agree with this I hate how opponent coaches work the hell out of the officials and he just lets them call it crappy or otherwise.

[nasdadjr]

Your too optimistic we are not winning any more than 7 league games zero road wins plus home losses to villanova and maybe butler again

[LA Muskie]

Don't blame Mack. It's not his fault. Blame me. I just realized I was sitting on the wrong couch cushion for the last 10 minutes of the game.

[X-Fan]

Ya, complete garbage.

Crazy stat that this is the first time X is down at half this season. I think that might actually help. In our losses we had good/decent halftime leads. Hopefully the guys come out with intensity in the 2nd half.

Also, interesting to see Austin get some time. Wasn't expecting to see him.

Let's Go Muskies!!!!
Well, there goes that theory. Guys came out decent in the first 8 minutes, but then disappeared on offense. I know Butler has a pert in it, but X settles too often on offense. The right guys aren't being put in good positions to score. Our Freshmen are playing like Freshman on the road.

I might be in the minority, but I think this teams is close to getting it figured out on the road. Quite a stretch coming up. Lots of opportunity.

Go X!!!!

[GetUp5]

Butler is gay.

[IM4X]

Butler's role players beat us. Chrabash, Barlow, Wideman... We don't seem very "deep" today. We bottled up their top scorer -- largely on the back of a single defender --but let everyone else beat us.

Very True.


This looks to be an improving and solid Butler team. But X play way below their potential for much of the game. Didn't hustle back on D, poor defense for the most part, guards and 3s stood around on offense, some poor decision making by certain players... And speaking of poor decision making, coach Mack did nothing but make things worse.


Where oh where is the Mack who coached and prepared the team for Georgetown. That was a different team and a different coach. I also agree with the comment someone made questioning what the heck Mack's assistants are doing to help out.

[OTRMUSKIE]

Butler is gay.

Agreed!

[Strange Brew]

Well, poop. When is the next game?

[xukeith]

Butler this year in the BE is known for their defense. Inside, Reynolds and Farr need to be dependable and demand a double team. Watching Matt Stain., is too preditable: pass, pass, pass. We need to take advantage of all those 1st half fouls on Butler but no, not X.
Bluiett was trying too hard for his hometown throwing up prayers.

[xukeith]

AT Villanova.
I will guess Villanova will be favored by 13-15 points. At least Butler covered.

[OTRMUSKIE]

Someone please tell Farr to stop acting like he made the winning basket every time his shot goes in! Butler wasn't impressive which tells me our talent isn't as good as we thought it was or our coach stinks. I am thinking maybe both.

[vee4xu]

Gave up 54 points in the second Half. Same old, same old. Until that changes nothing will change with the outcome of road games.

[Xavier]

Seriously what is Macks obsession with calling a time out in the middle of a run after a made basket. I swear it has never worked (I'm sure it has just seems like other team regains composure and relaxes)

[Xville]

It's time to consider different coaching options if we don't make the tourney this year which I think is about 50-50 at this point. Mack doesn't make adjustments when things don't go right and it's frustrating.

[OTRMUSKIE]

So who do you think we should hire? Is Kelsey ready? I do think Mack takes another job if it's offered. He is feeling the heat I have got to believe.

[casualfan]

We've lost 18 of our last 26 road games.

[vee4xu]

It's time to consider different coaching options if we don't make the tourney this year which I think is about 50-50 at this point. Mack doesn't make adjustments when things don't go right and it's frustrating.

So we're going down that road, eh? Do yourself a favor and Please refrain from that when you're emotional.

[XU 87]

Gave up 54 points in the second Half. Same old, same old. Until that changes nothing will change with the outcome of road games.

That kind of sums things up.

[XU 87]

Seriously what is Macks obsession with calling a time out in the middle of a run after a made basket. I swear it has never worked (I'm sure it has just seems like other team regains composure and relaxes)

He doesn't do that when we're on a run. I think he does it when he sees a problem on defense.

[GoMuskies]

Mack is plenty safe for now (and should be). But if this season continues on its current path, he's going to get a lot less rope starting next year. The Dez Wells fiasco that started us down this path will be over three years past when next season starts.

[Art Vandelay]

It's extremely tough to win on the road in conference so I'm not gonna get into that, shit happens.

my question is....what exactly does James Farr bring to this team? Does he ever get a rebound, play solid defense or make a shot when it really matters most? I'm not sure who you replace the majority of his minutes with, but something definitely needs to happen in that spot.

[IM4X]

He doesn't do that when we're on a run. I think he does it when he sees a problem on defense.

How'd that work out for him. He called timeout after we hit a 3 and had some momentum and the result coming out of the timeout was that Butler took back the momentum.

Too often he calls timeout after his team seem to stop the opponents momentum and his team gains a little... And almost never (at least on the road this year) does he call timeouts quickly enough when the opponent goes on a run- digging too big a hole to climb out of . What's that they say about the definition of insanity - doing the same thing again and again and expect different results.- seems to fit Mack perfectly...at least until we see otherwise

[LadyMuskie]

Mack is plenty safe for now (and should be). But if this season continues on its current path, he's going to get a lot less rope starting next year. The Dez Wells fiasco that started us down this path will be over three years past when next season starts.

I tend to agree with this. If this season ends without a tourney berth or losing in the play-in game in spectacular fashion again, Mack better find a way to win next season. And, I think at that point, after next season, the criticism and urgency to produce will be well-deserved.

Truth be told, I find that as his tenure as head coach goes on, I feel like I'm watching Prosser Basketball at Xavier, Round Two. Great guy. Affable coach. Great representative of the University. Just can't get it done to push things to the next level. I don't expect Duke like results, but I do think we're capable of playing better than we are, and I do think that many of our issues fall to coaching. I do think he should be allowed to finish this season and play next season before calls for a change in leadership happen, but not beyond that.

Prosser was a great guy, but let's be honest I don't know anyone who was crying in his milk because he wasn't head coach anymore. I also don't know anyone who ever had a bad word to say about the man. I seem to get the feeling the same will be true with Mack. They're good coaches, but if we want to compete, we need more than just good.

[kyxu]

So we're going down that road, eh? Do yourself a favor and Please refrain from that when you're emotional.

Barring some major scandal, Xavier will never fire Mack. At least not in the next 2-3 years, though I'd be surprised he sticks around for that long.

But it feels as if this program's been spinning its wheels as of late under his tutelage. This year's team is certainly more talented, but not sure you can say even that it's better than last year's, especially on the defensive end, which was the cornerstone of Mack's predecessor and something Mack professes to place great emphasis on.

Losses like this, taken in the long view, are kinda crushing when assessing Mack. We were on the cusp of being an elite program in Miller's final years and things seemed to be progressing that way in Mack's early season. It now feels as if the Xavier program has plateaued, and the next shoe that is going to drop will be a lower level "power 5" program luring Mack either after this year or the next, and then we start this same song and dance all over again.

[IM4X]

It's extremely tough to win on the road in conference so I'm not gonna get into that, shit happens.

my question is....what exactly does James Farr bring to this team? Does he ever get a rebound, play solid defense or make a shot when it really matters most? I'm not sure who you replace the majority of his minutes with, but something definitely needs to happen in that spot.


Farr was very solid at the beginning of the game. True, there are players who need to step up a bit more, but you could just as easily point the finger at other like Myles for not contributing the type of positive minutes expect of him. Or even Macura (who May be the best passer on the team and who has the potential to be a huge contributor).

It feels like many players are often out of position on offense and forcing bad shots at times instead of passing it around more until a better percentage shot becomes available. They do seem to move and pass and play so much smarter during home games.

[mohr5150]

Those of you calling for Mack's head are nuts. Coaches don't typically get fired when they win 65%+ of their games. At least, not at a place like X. By the way our RPI dropped...to 30. That's about where I look for us to end up, somewhere in the 30's.

[xsteve1]

Those of you calling for Mack's head are nuts. Coaches don't typically get fired when they win 65%+ of their games. At least, not at a place like X. By the way our RPI dropped...to 30. That's about where I look for us to end up, somewhere in the 30's.

I don't think anybody is really calling for his head but if you aren't concerned how the program is trending you aren't watching the same program I am. X has become irrelevant on the National stage.

[danaandvictory]

Barring some major scandal, Xavier will never fire Mack. At least not in the next 2-3 years, though I'd be surprised he sticks around for that long.

Xavier will never fire a head men's basketball coach without cause. It would be untenable financially to pay someone to go away.

That said, if they had wanted to make a change last year, they would have just declined to counter the Tennessee/Cal offers. And because of Mack's overall record, he will continue to have suitors every summer provided the ship doesn't sink.

I'm pretty much on board with the rest of kyxu's post, as well as LM's.

[kyxu]

Xavier will never fire a head men's basketball coach without cause. It would be untenable financially to pay someone to go away.

That said, if they had wanted to make a change last year, they would have just declined to counter the Tennessee/Cal offers. And because of Mack's overall record, he will continue to have suitors every summer provided the ship doesn't sink.

I'm pretty much on board with the rest of kyxu's post, as well as LM's.

Just to clarify, I do believe that Xavier will never fire Chris Mack. Despite our gripes, he's #3 on Xavier's all-time wins list as a head coach, and Xavier's not the type of program that would fire its head man simply because it's been awhile since it's made the Sweet 16.

And in the current climate of college basketball, Xavier may never fire any basketball coach. It would take a protracted period of failure, and frankly, no coach would stick around long enough at Xavier to get canned.

[bleedXblue]

Just too lazy to go back through 200 posts. I see the following:

1. A coach who chews no ones ass. Ever.
2. A coach who refuses to make changes when its obvious to everyone else a change is needed.
3. A coach who cant motivate when needed.
4. A coach who cant run an offensive scheme to get the right players in the right spots taking the right shots.
5. A coach who clearly doesn't have his teams confidence.

Today was an eye opener. I've always supported Mack and thought he was the right guy for the program. I'm simply not all that confident anymore. This team has enough talent. Today was an embarrassment.

[LA Muskie]

My biggest concern right now is Stainbrook. He scored about 15 of his 21 in about an 8 min stretch. For most of the rest, he seemed like a net negative. He's playing BAD defense and he doesn't carry himself with the "fire" to will out a win. Don't get me wrong -- I'm a huge Stainbrook fan. But if he's our best player, we need more out of him in just about every area.

PS: I recognize the irony of complaining about our lone statistical success today. And again I don't mean to take anything away from him. I just think, despite what he was able to put together in a spurt today, we needed a lot more for a much greater portion of the game.

[paulxu]

I'm not sure I'd want some of you guys in my foxhole if things got a little rough.

[drudy23]

5-18 in our last 23 road games and it's very likely to get worse. I have no answer for how it will get better.

Completely unacceptable...and also indefensible.

[bleedXblue]

I'm not sure I'd want some of you guys in my foxhole if things got a little rough.

Well the irony is that things are rough in Xavier land. Do you see a team that's together? Do you see a team leaving it all on the court? Do you see a team learning, growing and getter better? I sure don't. Losses are going to happen. Today was an absolute shit show. I cant think of a more mismanaged game and lackluster performance in a long time. And Mack's postgame comments sound very similar to losses 4 weeks ago. Coach has to earn his pay and he's simply stealing right now.

[bleedXblue]

My biggest concern right now is Stainbrook. He scored about 15 of his 21 in about an 8 min stretch. For most of the rest, he seemed like a net negative. He's playing BAD defense and he doesn't carry himself with the "fire" to will out a win. Don't get me wrong -- I'm a huge Stainbrook fan. But if he's our best player, we need more out of him in just about every area.

PS: I recognize the irony of complaining about our lone statistical success today. And again I don't mean to take anything away from him. I just think, despite what he was able to put together in a spurt today, we needed a lot more for a much greater portion of the game.

This team needs a floor leader. Stainbrook is the most logical guy. I just don't think he has it in him. He could be the glue when his game isn't there.

[LA Muskie]

All the coach bashing after losses is getting pretty tired at this point. Maybe it's common among fanbases; I don't know. I'm really not much of a fan over anything but Xavier basketball. I know the bashing was rampant on the "other" board after losses, back in the day. I know because it's why I bailed and moved over here.

Losing is not fun. I get it. I hate it as much as anyone. But the incessant need to BLAME someone...anyone...for every loss, and every unsuccessful play leading to it, only detracts from the joy of being a Xavier fan. There's a difference between discussing a loss, and denigrating coaches and players for their role in it.

We weren't going to go 18-0 in the conference this year. We weren't going to go 17-1. And I'm nearly certain we're not going to go 16-2, either. So, sure...every loss brings us one step closer to a disappointing season. But that is no different than any other team in any other conference -- or, for that matter, in any other sport. But every next game is a brand-new opportunity. That may sound cliche, but it's true nevertheless.

I know many of those who are bashing on Chris right now will be watching anxiously on Wednesday, fully supporting our team from afar (except for those privileged to attend in person). And I know many of you will be back in you seats on Saturday cheering the team on against Marquette. I know you are die-hard fans, screaming your heads off in full support of the team. I know that when you lash out -- be it Chris or Dee or someone else -- it is mostly from emotion and frustration. I get it. But try to remember why you are such a fan in the first place, and try to recognize that when you bash your own, you are breaking down that which you love, brick by brick.

[coasterville95]

Well my road record drops to 2-5 when traveling to watch our Muskies on the road. This one was close and exiting for about 33 minutes.

I'll have a reflection session on this long bus ride back to cincinnati.

[xudash]

All the coach bashing after losses is getting pretty tired at this point. Maybe it's common among fanbases; I don't know. I'm really not much of a fan over anything but Xavier basketball. I know the bashing was rampant on the "other" board after losses, back in the day. I know because it's why I bailed and moved over here.

Losing is not fun. I get it. I hate it as much as anyone. But the incessant need to BLAME someone...anyone...for every loss, and every unsuccessful play leading to it, only detracts from the joy of being a Xavier fan. There's a difference between discussing a loss, and denigrating coaches and players for their role in it.

We weren't going to go 18-0 in the conference this year. We weren't going to go 17-1. And I'm nearly certain we're not going to go 16-2, either. So, sure...every loss brings us one step closer to a disappointing season. But that is no different than any other team in any other conference -- or, for that matter, in any other sport. But every next game is a brand-new opportunity. That may sound cliche, but it's true nevertheless.

I know many of those who are bashing on Chris right now will be watching anxiously on Wednesday, fully supporting our team from afar (except for those privileged to attend in person). And I know many of you will be back in you seats on Saturday cheering the team on against Marquette. I know you are die-hard fans, screaming your heads off in full support of the team. I know that when you lash out -- be it Chris or Dee or someone else -- it is mostly from emotion and frustration. I get it. But try to remember why you are such a fan in the first place, and try to recognize that when you bash your own, you are breaking down that which you love, brick by brick.

Excellent post.

[usfldan]

How'd that work out for him. He called timeout after we hit a 3 and had some momentum and the result coming out of the timeout was that Butler took back the momentum.

Too often he calls timeout after his team seem to stop the opponents momentum and his team gains a little... And almost never (at least on the road this year) does he call timeouts quickly enough when the opponent goes on a run- digging too big a hole to climb out of . What's that they say about the definition of insanity - doing the same thing again and again and expect different results.- seems to fit Mack perfectly...at least until we see otherwise

Looking at the play-by-play, between turnovers committed at 14:10 and 6:05, Butler scored on 11 of 12 possessions to go from down 45-43 to up 69-61. The only stop Xavier had during this time? Immediately following the time out Mack called with 10:13 left. Unfortunately, Bluiett missed a 3 on our possession, and Butler went on its merry way scoring at will.

Xavier was playing well offensively during this time (scored on 8 of 13 possessions during that ~8 min. stretch, 4 of 7 before the 10:13 time out and 4 of 6 after), but was not on any kind of run. They went from being ahead to being down and trading baskets to within 1 point. They needed a defensive stop and got one, they just didn't convert on offense.

As for the 7:20 time out, while it didn't work defensively, it did not halt to offensive momentum as Xavier scored on its two possessions after that time out. I think the idea was if it worked once, maybe they could milk it for a stop on that Butler possession, and then another on the media time out following. Stainbrook's fouls on Butler's possession thwarted that plan.

[X-Fan]

The season is a marathon, not a sprint.

Yes, there are tendencies we have seen with lots of Coach Macks teams (issues winning on the road, 3pt D, Toughness), but these are issues many teams have.

What makes this team different from the past two? Talent, Depth, and ability to improve.

Unlike the past two teams, this one has the tools to be very successful.

I'm seeing improvement in this team. The D has improved a ton. It still has a ways to go, but it's getting better.

Yes they struggle on the road, but it's not like they are completely lost. They have been in all these games, but have not gotten it done when it matters. Guess what, THAT is why winning on the road is hard FOR ALL TEAMS.

As far as a lack of toughness, I don't think its that. I feel like the guys are trying so hard to: be in the right spot, not foul, help on D, hedge and get back, etc... that they are thinking instead of reacting. "It" will come for these guys, and when it does it'll be fantastic.

What can I say, I like this team. I think they will get it. They have the talent and enough experience to do great things.

Go X!!!!

[kyxu]

All the coach bashing after losses is getting pretty tired at this point. Maybe it's common among fanbases; I don't know. I'm really not much of a fan over anything but Xavier basketball. I know the bashing was rampant on the "other" board after losses, back in the day. I know because it's why I bailed and moved over here.

Losing is not fun. I get it. I hate it as much as anyone. But the incessant need to BLAME someone...anyone...for every loss, and every unsuccessful play leading to it, only detracts from the joy of being a Xavier fan. There's a difference between discussing a loss, and denigrating coaches and players for their role in it.

We weren't going to go 18-0 in the conference this year. We weren't going to go 17-1. And I'm nearly certain we're not going to go 16-2, either. So, sure...every loss brings us one step closer to a disappointing season. But that is no different than any other team in any other conference -- or, for that matter, in any other sport. But every next game is a brand-new opportunity. That may sound cliche, but it's true nevertheless.

I know many of those who are bashing on Chris right now will be watching anxiously on Wednesday, fully supporting our team from afar (except for those privileged to attend in person). And I know many of you will be back in you seats on Saturday cheering the team on against Marquette. I know you are die-hard fans, screaming your heads off in full support of the team. I know that when you lash out -- be it Chris or Dee or someone else -- it is mostly from emotion and frustration. I get it. But try to remember why you are such a fan in the first place, and try to recognize that when you bash your own, you are breaking down that which you love, brick by brick.

Not a ton to argue with this post, but there is a distinction between what you decry above and reasoned, well-founded criticism of the coach/coaching staff. I think a majority of the frustrated on this board fall into the latter category.

[vee4xu]

I am going to leave this day on a good note. Despite today's loss, KenPom has X at #27. They started the day at #24. Also, Butler is #30 after today's win. The benefits of playing in a strong conference is that road losses do not have the same really bad impact as those A-10 losses to Charlotte, Richmond, etc. used to have. Also, last I saw, St. Joe's lost big today. Remember when they were #1 in the country. Me neither, and likely neither do their fans.

Keep the faith X fans.

[xu82]

Well my road record drops to 2-5 when traveling to watch our Muskies on the road. This one was close and exiting for about 33 minutes.

I'll have a reflection session on this long bus ride back to cincinnati.
Based upon your track record, please consider an expanded cable package. We need viewership as well. :-)

But I'm sure we all praise your effort!

[Masterofreality]

All the coach bashing after losses is getting pretty tired at this point. Maybe it's common among fanbases; I don't know. I'm really not much of a fan over anything but Xavier basketball. I know the bashing was rampant on the "other" board after losses, back in the day. I know because it's why I bailed and moved over here.

Losing is not fun. I get it. I hate it as much as anyone. But the incessant need to BLAME someone...anyone...for every loss, and every unsuccessful play leading to it, only detracts from the joy of being a Xavier fan. There's a difference between discussing a loss, and denigrating coaches and players for their role in it.

We weren't going to go 18-0 in the conference this year. We weren't going to go 17-1. And I'm nearly certain we're not going to go 16-2, either. So, sure...every loss brings us one step closer to a disappointing season. But that is no different than any other team in any other conference -- or, for that matter, in any other sport. But every next game is a brand-new opportunity. That may sound cliche, but it's true nevertheless.

I know many of those who are bashing on Chris right now will be watching anxiously on Wednesday, fully supporting our team from afar (except for those privileged to attend in person). And I know many of you will be back in you seats on Saturday cheering the team on against Marquette. I know you are die-hard fans, screaming your heads off in full support of the team. I know that when you lash out -- be it Chris or Dee or someone else -- it is mostly from emotion and frustration. I get it. But try to remember why you are such a fan in the first place, and try to recognize that when you bash your own, you are breaking down that which you love, brick by brick.

Good post. I'll be at BOTH games, then BACK on the road at Providence then after missing the DePaul game at home, back in DC for Georgetown. But.....

Today, quite frankly, as was the second Long Beach State game, Auburn and DePaul, was totally unacceptable- and not necessarily that we lost. Each game had it's different reasons. Long Beach State because Remy Abel, our best defender only played 17 minutes in the game total and only 8 minutes in the second half when LBSU was making an offensive run to come back and win. who decided that sub pattern? Auburn, because of a hard-headed refusal to try zone when Auburn guards were waltzing to the basket..and at no time did they show they could consistently make an outside shot. DePaul, because we allowed two guys to stand out at the 3 line and drill shots unchallenged- along with putting on an unneeded press after we got the game tied, and today because our "big front line" gave up 14 offensive rebounds and 21 second chance points- to a team that just out worked us. WTF does this team and staff think is going to happen when we walk into another guy's gym? Bow down because we are Xavier? What this shows to me is that there is way too much formula, and not enough reaction to what is actually happening in the course of the game.

Yeah, we shot like crap today, but rebounding is effort and so are 50/50 balls. We got destroyed on both of those today, and that is "milquetoast" garbage. Yes, the road is tough, but somehow, a tough minded team coached by Ed Cooley came in to the barn and won earlier this week. That same Ed Cooley toughened his team to win the Big East Tournament last year. Where is the away from home tough minded ness of this group? I ain't seeing it.

Yeah, I'll be there to support, and probably get my ass handed to me on Wednesday night at 'Nova, but that doesn't mean that I can't have concerns over what is being coached into these players at this point.

[drudy23]

5-18 last 23 road games. 5 and f*cking 18...for all of you people who have the cavalier "it's just one game" philosophy, please tell us all at what point this concerns you? If you're not concerned by now, you're likely high.

[kyxu]

5-18 last 23 road games. 5 and f*cking 18...for all of you people who have the cavalier "it's just one game" philosophy, please tell us all at what point this concerns you? If you're not concerned by now, you're likely high.

I wish I were high right now.

[drudy23]

Dee Davis shoots 15 shots...3 more than Stain and 5 more than Bluiett...if Dee Davis is going to lead the team in shot attempts, we aren't going to win. Dee, we don't need you to score. Play the damn point and distribute the ball to your finishers. Dee should never be allowed to shoot the ball 15 times per game. He's our point, and we have plenty of other scoring options...sick of this Senior BS too. It doesn't matter, play your damn role and this team is better for it.

[XU2011]

Go Xavier.

What a joke.

I encourage you all to look back when we had this bad of a 3 year stretch

[XU2011]

All the coach bashing after losses is getting pretty tired at this point. Maybe it's common among fanbases; I don't know. I'm really not much of a fan over anything but Xavier basketball. I know the bashing was

Go Muskies. Worst 3 year stretch. Can't win a game away from Cintas.

IN MACK WE TRUST!!!!!!!!!

[LadyMuskie]

I am going to leave this day on a good note. Despite today's loss, KenPom has X at #27. They started the day at #24. Also, Butler is #30 after today's win. The benefits of playing in a strong conference is that road losses do not have the same really bad impact as those A-10 losses to Charlotte, Richmond, etc. used to have. Also, last I saw, St. Joe's lost big today. Remember when they were #1 in the country. Me neither, and likely neither do their fans.

Keep the faith X fans.

I remember when they were #1 in the country. I also remember the beating we gave them up in Dayton. That team that destroyed the #1 team in the nation played tough after getting embarrassed by Duquesne. I don't see much toughness in the current team.

[XU2011]

Goooooooooo Xavier.

In prayers to God I hope Christopher sees it cause God knows Graham and Chadwick are content with mediocrity as we've seen the last couple years from the academic side of things.

[butlerway]

Forgot the tripod, so the video is a little shaky, but I thought some of you might still be interested.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ECEq4_Zmjac

[xudash]

"They out-rebounded us by 11. We didn't get offensive rebounds in the game until it didn't matter," Mack said. "Give Butler credit – they were ready to play the same way for 40 minutes and we only challenged them for about 30. You have to play a complete game in order to be a really well-coached, driven team."

[IM4X]

Dee Davis shoots 15 shots...3 more than Stain and 5 more than Bluiett...if Dee Davis is going to lead the team in shot attempts, we aren't going to win. Dee, we don't need you to score. Play the damn point and distribute the ball to your finishers. Dee should never be allowed to shoot the ball 15 times per game. He's our point, and we have plenty of other scoring options...sick of this Senior BS too. It doesn't matter, play your damn role and this team is better for it.

I agree that he shot more than he probably should have and some of his shots were not good looks (I remember one of his 3s was launched from about 5 feet behind the arc at the top of the key one time when he could have easily moved in a few steps in).

One of the problems was that many of the expected finishers weren't moving around enough on offense and as a result were not getting enough open looks... And frankly even when they do get a little room they still rush it and missed. Myles has been off and so has Macura. Finishers just aren't finishing like they were at the beginning of the season.

[OTRMUSKIE]

Forgot the tripod, so the video is a little shaky, but I thought some of you might still be interested.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ECEq4_Zmjac

Forgetting things seems to be the Butler way. Forgetting to fix the scoreboard, forgetting to fix the water fountain so it couldn't be torn off the wall. Now you forgot the tripod.

[IM4X]

Forgot the tripod, so the video is a little shaky, but I thought some of you might still be interested.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ECEq4_Zmjac

Looks like Mack was caught off guard when one person (in response to Mack's comment about how his players need to grow up), asked at the 8:49 point... "Do you have any idea from your own standpoint how to coach that in to them?" It's like he had no answer other than basically to say he will keep doing the same stuff he's always done and hope for a different result.

I would have been much more impressed with Mack had he taken some ownership for the loss and said something like, "You know there were a number of things our players didn't do well out there on the court, but my staff and I need to own tonight's loss and the other away losses as much as the players. I will study tonight's game tape as well as all of our road losses and see if I can find out what we as coaches may not be doing right - then adjust our approach until we get those things working."

[OTRMUSKIE]

He simply has no clue what to do it sounds like. Watch more film, do more drills, play different guys? None of those things are gonna work IMHO. What we need is our gangstas back! We havnt been the same team since the fight. Maybe a field trip to Compton might toughen these guys up.

[Masterofreality]

I gotta give big props to Jimmy Farr for sitting up there and taking the questions and heat. I think he handled himself as well as possible under the circumstances.

You know what? After a game like that, shouldn't your Seniors such as Dee and Stain be told that you gotta get up there and answer? Dee is from Indiana and Stain had a decent offensive game, but could have possibly addressed the rebounding woes better.

After seeing Butler play yesterday compared to how they played under Brandon Miller, I'm beginning to think that Miller's "medical issues" were brain cramps.

[Masterofreality]

Posted without comment.

"@JohnGasaway: In 2nd half of Butler's 88-76 win over Xavier the Bulldogs scored 54 points in just 36 possessions. No "D" in "Musketeers."

[Muskie]

I think we all need to come to the realization that the days of a 25-5 conference record are over. This conference will be very difficult to win on the road. That said. Something seems amiss with this lineup.

[Xville]

If our own coach doesn't know what to do then how do we expect the players to execute differently.

If we don't make the tourney this year, it's time to look for other options. Maybe some of you accept mediocrity but I don't think xavier should. Not making the tourney 2 out of 3 years and the other year squeaking in and getting our behind handed to us should not be acceptable.

Now, the year isn't over and they can turn this around but my trust in mack doing that is very low and that press conference didn't help matters.

[kyxu]

If we don't make the tourney this year, it's time to look for other options. Maybe some of you accept mediocrity but I don't think xavier should.

Yeah, Xavier will be awaiting your multi-million dollar gift so that it can buy out Mack's contract and hire back Sean Miller.

As discussed ad nauseam, Xavier's not going to fire its head basketball coach, especially one that is #3 on its all-time wins list. It wouldn't jive with the university through either a philosophical or financial standpoint.

[kyxu]

I think we all need to come to the realization that the days of a 25-5 conference record are over. This conference will be very difficult to win on the road. That said. Something seems amiss with this lineup.

I agree that we're not going to win 6-7 conference road games per year like we did in the A10, but what's concerning is that the caliber of team we are losing to on the road right now as not much different from the middle-tier of our old conference brethren.

[sweet16]

Xavier will never fire a head men's basketball coach without cause. It would be untenable financially to pay someone to go away.

The money to settle any contractual obligations would, in all probability, not come from Xavier's general fund but rather from a group of individuals.

[Muskie]

The money to settle any contractual obligations would, in all probability, not come from Xavier's general fund but rather from a group of individuals.

True. But we're not exactly flush with those kinda donors (comparable to say Georgetown).

[GoMuskies]

If Xavier needs to make a coaching change, they'll make a coaching change. It would be extremely short-sighted to not make a change solely due to the financial obligations involved in such a change. Luckily we're not at that place now, but it's silly to think Xavier is going to let the University's top asset wither because it would be expensive to make a change at the top.

[bleedXblue]

Mack is flat lost. It was a game yesterday mid way through the second half. And as Mack and his staff watched Butler score at will, not a single defensive scheme change was made. How can that happen? The defensive mistakes this team makes are mind boggling. I'm not sure what Mack is seeing with Macura right now either. He can't guard and he's not scoring on the other end. He clearly is not getting through to his team. Good coaches make adjustments and figure out a way. There are so many issues on both end of the floor, I think I would scrap everything and tell the team a new season starts today. You have to earn your spot. Defense gets you minutes.

[drudy23]

These are the same guys that win at home, sometimes easily, against good teams...shells of themselves on the road. Every other game, we see what this team can be...then we see the opposite. It's just mind boggling how different they look on the road. It has to come down to mental toughness and coaching.

Go back to the Seton Hall game, there were 3 situations where Seton Hall players fouled our guys very hard (Macura thrown to the floor, Davis tackled, and some other guy that got a chop to the nose)...there was no one on our team that reacted with any type of aggression to protect their teammate. I think the other teams know we're soft too.

No attitude, no swagger. We can play, but we need a killer.

[Muskie]

I see a bunch of slow footed players on Defense. Also, I wish Trevon would take the ball to the rim just like Dee Davis insists on doing. He'd score 15-20 points per game doing it between buckets and free throws.