The Coach Chris Mack Reality Thread

[SemajParlor]

"I'm a great believer in luck, and I find the harder I work the more I have of it." - TJefferson

A real man makes his own luck. - Titanic, 1997.

[LA Muskie]

I would think we could all agree that shooting 81% is as much good luck as shooting 15% would be bad luck. Since both would be well outside the standard deviation of any reasonable expectation for this squad given its talent and experience levels and those of our opponents (ie, well outside their respective statistical averages).

But maybe some can't accept that because only Butler benefits from luck and draw en route to its Final Fours.

[LA Muskie]

Shooting 81% is possible because the guys do have skill and they do practice. It is going to happen every game? Unlikely, but that doesn't make it impossible or pure luck when it does happen. Hell, Mack even said in the postgame presser that Myles didn't miss a shot in shoot around. Saying we shot well and subsequently won because we were lucky takes away all the hard work, dedication, talent and skill these guys have. We owned both of the teams we played. We didn't just win at the last minute because we got hot, or balls started to fall. We came to play. And our play won.

No one said it was "pure" luck. That would just be absurd. But attributing no portion of an 81% shooting half to at least some degree of luck is equally absurd.

But I agree that in no way did we win either game through luck. We dominated.

[Wheelhouse]

While this year is similar to 2012, when we got 15-seed Lehigh in round two, I actually think this year's team is playing much better at the end of the season than that 2012 team was playing. That team had bad vibes and average play from the brawl on, if memory serves. I also don't think it makes someone less of a Xavier fan if they point out that we haven't exactly had the toughest road to the Sweet 16 this year. But you know what? Who cares? We made it. We didn't pick our draw, we just beat the teams in front of us and beat them both pretty handily. Would we be in the Sweet 16 if we had a different draw? Maybe not. But maybe we would!

A message board allows little room for nuance and I think we're all probably closer to the same mindset than the board allows us to think.

[xudash]

A real man makes his own luck. - Titanic, 1997.

Ha! Until he blew his brains out in the Crash of '29.

[markchal]

Ha! Until he blew his brains out in the Crash of '29.

WHOA! Spoiler alert??

[xudash]

WHOA! Spoiler alert??

Sorry, I was more focused on the reference to the movie than how Xavier is going to skillfully take out Arizona through 40 minutes of pure basketball execution Thursday night.

No spoiling intended.

[X-band '01]

Shooting 81% is possible because the guys do have skill and they do practice. It is going to happen every game? Unlikely, but that doesn't make it impossible or pure luck when it does happen. Hell, Mack even said in the postgame presser that Myles didn't miss a shot in shoot around. Saying we shot well and subsequently won because we were lucky takes away all the hard work, dedication, talent and skill these guys have. We owned both of the teams we played. We didn't just win at the last minute because we got hot, or balls started to fall. We came to play. And our play won.

Think Kansas and Villanova would love to trade places with Xavier right now? Both programs have suddenly had trouble getting out of the first weekend in recent years.

[muethibp]

I said they couldn't cover our guards. If they got drilled by Lehigh's guards, they were going to get drilled by X's guards.

But you're really reaching and getting into the world of speculation about this "luck factor" and really taking away from some pretty good accomplishments and good coaching. "Ole' Miss was tired, we got too high of a seed, duke lost to Lehigh, and an ND guy had lane violation"- to name a few that you have named. I doubt the Baylor fans are saying they were lucky to get to the elite 8 by beating a Xavier team with two injured starters.

I forgot to include that you think shooting 81% from the field in the second half was also lucky. Or maybe it was because X got a LOT of really, really good looks, including a lot of dunks and layups. X wasn't banking in threes.

Actually, I agree with what Waggy wrote below. There was some good and bad fortune involved. Your posts just come across as "it took a lot of luck" to get to these sweet 16's. I think it's primarily "X played really well."

Look, I do think that our draws and the games have been pretty lucky. But, it really doesn't matter that much. Because I'll just accept what you and others seem to want - they played really well and that's why they've made the sweet 16.

Even doing that, I still return to the point I made at the beginning of the day. The results of any weekend's games - no matter how successful or not - should not sway opinion as much as it seems to have done so because the results are dependent on many factors (of which luck, to some debatable degree, is one of them) beyond coaching. I take the results of the game and add them to the mix of information we already had about Mack but it hardly is cause to say, "see, I told you he was a good coach, look, we beat GA St."

[D-West & PO-Z]

Look, I do think that our draws and the games have been pretty lucky. But, it really doesn't matter that much. Because I'll just accept what you and others seem to want - they played really well and that's why they've made the sweet 16.

Even doing that, I still return to the point I made at the beginning of the day. The results of any weekend's games - no matter how successful or not - should not sway opinion as much as it seems to have done so because the results are dependent on many factors (of which luck, to some debatable degree, is one of them) beyond coaching. I take the results of the game and add them to the mix of information we already had about Mack but it hardly is cause to say, "see, I told you he was a good coach, look, we beat GA St."

No more like: "see I told you he was a good coach, we had a good season with the most ever top25 wins, against our toughest schedule ever, and got a #6 seed in the tournament, and made at least the Sweet 16."

[X-Fan]

Just want to say AMEN! to this:


This is bullcrap and I'll tell you why.

This team is playing it's very best ball of the year right now. We shot 81% from the field in the second half of Saturday's game. That's not luck. That's not because we played a far less superior team. It's because we are playing very, very well. Stain and Dee had tremendous games against Ole Miss, who had the advantage of already having won one tournament game before matching up against us. We came into both games fired up, and frankly we had to play 30 solid minutes of ball to beat an equally fired up Georgia State. Neither game was given to us because we're lucky. We worked damn hard to earn the spot we have. (Side rant: Why is it that when a play-in game winner loses in the second round, it's because they're tired and weren't really good to begin with? But, when they win in the second round and advance it's because they've got great momentum? Maybe, occasionally it has to do with the team they're playing.)

Six weeks ago if you had told me that we had to face Arizona in the tournament, I'd have been as worried as anyone about our chances, but if we're punching on all cylinders like we have been I think we give Arizona a really good game.

As for the rest of it, the season was frustrating. Mack more or less said so himself in countless postgame interviews throughout the year. We were up. We were down. We had issues. It is what it is. I'm just going to sit back and enjoy the fact that we are one of only 16 schools still playing ball and we're the only school in Ohio still playing. If you want to gloat, I suggest finding a VD, UC or OSU fan. Most of us on this board are X fans and only want the best for the program. At the end of the day, being a jackhole is the same whether you're a holier than thou jackhole or an overly dramatic pessimistic jackhole.

And this:

In 1990, Xavier beat Georgetown to advance to the Sweet 16 for the first time in program history.

I waited 14 years to experience the second weekend again as a fan in 2004.

Since 2004, I have watched X play in the second weekend 5 more times. All of those have come in the last 8 seasons. I don't care who X beat to get there and I don't care who they have to play.

They are in the Sweet 16. AGAIN. Frankly, I am pumped and declaring this SEASON 1 of the 2014-15 Freshman Class. Go X! If you want to be looked at as a power team, you have to play and beat the power teams. Arizona, love them or hate them, is a power team at the highest level.

Also, it's silly to get mad at those who were overly critical right now, just as was silly to get mad at those who are overly supportive during the season. Our common bond is that we all care VERY MUCH about Xavier Basketball. We all want them to win the league, get to a Final Four, and hopefully win it all. How we go about expressing our passion for Xavier Basketball is different from one person to the next. It is what it is.

Being completely honest, I have had some doubts about Coach Mack. Now, I choose to rationally take-in the contributing factors, and look for positives. I see the talent he has been bringing in since his third season. As I've said before, I'm a patient person. It's taken X most of my lifetime to get where they are, so if a guy does not develop fast enough, I can wait a season.

My point is, enough with all of this. There's no point debating any of what was said. Enjoy the now. Heck, jump on twitter and get into a twitter fight or two with a Vd moron or UC DB. You know, have fun!

Go X!!!!

[LadyMuskie]

A real man makes his own luck. - Titanic, 1997.


Ha! Until he blew his brains out in the Crash of '29.

You guys seem to know a lot about the movie Titantic.

Tardy is a Brony, you guys are quoting Titantic. The off-season should be epic around here.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I have to admit ever since college I have never been able to flip around and flip past Titanic if it is on. One of my college roommates and I started watching it one day and every time we came across it for some reason we had to watch and I text him to this day when I am flipping around and it is on. Not really sure why but it is what it is. I dont think I have ever seen the whole thing from start to finish but I have seen enough chunks starting in enough different places that I have seen it all.

[SemajParlor]

You guys seem to know a lot about the movie Titantic.

Tardy is a Brony, you guys are quoting Titantic. The off-season should be epic around here.

I consider myself an expert on enjoyable yet undeserving Academy Award winning best picture films. Seriously, how did Good Will Hunting not win that year?

[LadyMuskie]

I have to admit ever since college I have never been able to flip around and flip past Titanic if it is on. One of my college roommates and I started watching it one day and every time we came across it for some reason we had to watch and I text him to this day when I am flipping around and it is on. Not really sure why but it is what it is. I dont think I have ever seen the whole thing from start to finish but I have seen enough chunks starting in enough different places that I have seen it all.

It's like the Twilight Zone around here. For next year's XHoops Secret Santa, if I get your name, I'll get you a really sweet Tiger Beat Leo DiCaprio poster for your man cave!

[LadyMuskie]

I consider myself an expert on enjoyable yet undeserving Academy Award winning best picture films. Seriously, how did Good Will Hunting not win that year?

Because either the only people who voted that year were 13 year old girls and future XHoops posters, or the academy voters were afraid of 13 year old girls and future XHoops posters, apparently.

But, Titanic has not held up to time even a little bit. I agree Good Will Hunting definitely should have won, but even As Good As It Gets or LA Confidential would have been more acceptable. I remember arguing at the time with my best friend, who was head over heels for Leo, that Titanic would eventually face strong criticism because it was completely overhyped. It's a nice love story with some nice special effects, but best picture? No.

[GoMuskies]

We did get to see Kate Winslett's boobs. So there was that.

[paulxu]

Think Kansas and Villanova would love to trade places with Xavier right now? Both programs have suddenly had trouble getting out of the first weekend in recent years.

If you're not the lead dog...the view never changes.

[SemajParlor]

We did get to see Kate Winslett's boobs. So there was that.

Truly a transcendent moment in cinematography.

[LadyMuskie]

I forgot that scene. Suddenly everything is becoming clearer. And more pathetic.

[xu82]

I forgot that scene. Suddenly everything is becoming clearer. And more pathetic.

When it comes to pathetic, I think we've barely scratched the surface of what we are truly capable of. Never under estimate us! Now, what's this thread about again?

[D-West & PO-Z]

We did get to see Kate Winslett's boobs. So there was that.

Stupid TNT never shows it!

Seriously TNT proabably plays Titanic 40 times a year.

[SemajParlor]

Stupid TNT never shows it!

Seriously TNT proabably plays Titanic 40 times a year.


It's very unfortunate. I can't even remember if the scene was on the 1st or 2nd VHS tape. I've lost a step.

[GoMuskies]

Now, what's this thread about again?

Kate Winslett's boobs.

[xu82]

Kate Winslett's boobs.

Oh yeah... great topic!

[blobfan]

The negative tone against Mack was palpable. The feeling that "hey, we are X....we deserve to be great! If we aren't great all the time, it must be the coach's fault...or the players are just not good enough...which is the coach's fault because he can't develop them or they were bad when we recruited them!" was ALL over the board for a VERY long stretch of the season. It made the board difficult to read. I've seen a lot of reaction that this is a message board, you should expect criticism. I get that. We all get that. But for those of you who are saying "it wasn't that bad...people were just critiquing the coach a little.....NO. It was that bad. Our players "sucked." "Dumbest team I've ever seen play." "No basketball IQ." "Coach Mack never develops anyone." blah blah blah. Much of it was personal and not constructive.
...

And a big reason why I don't visit as often. Now, I don't expect many really miss me but the people complaining may be few but they complain A LOT. They obsessively repeated their assertions even when facts are presented countering the argument and dominate these threads. This season more than any other XHoops has reminded me of another X board that many of us deserted.

[LadyMuskie]

. I've lost a step.

Along with your dignity. You had it on VHS?!?!

[GoMuskies]

And a big reason why I don't visit as often. Now, I don't expect many really miss me but the people complaining may be few but they complain A LOT. They obsessively repeated their assertions even when facts are presented countering the argument and dominate these threads. This season more than any other XHoops has reminded me of another X board that many of us deserted.

Yes, but what does this have to do with Kate Winslett's boobs?

[mid major]

Sorry but I'd rather see Anne Hathaway's boobs in Brokeback Mountain.

[xudash]

Because either the only people who voted that year were 13 year old girls and future XHoops posters, or the academy voters were afraid of 13 year old girls and future XHoops posters, apparently.

But, Titanic has not held up to time even a little bit. I agree Good Will Hunting definitely should have won, but even As Good As It Gets or LA Confidential would have been more acceptable. I remember arguing at the time with my best friend, who was head over heels for Leo, that Titanic would eventually face strong criticism because it was completely overhyped. It's a nice love story with some nice special effects, but best picture? No.

I guess I'm one of those that can watch a particular movie over and over and over again and be okay with doing that.

As Good As It Gets and LA Confidential are serious favorites of mine. GWH is solid as well, especially with Robin Williams and the role he played in it.

Titanic? I love history. I don't bring that up because of the movie, I bring that up because of the boat. There is a fascination about all that. The arrogance of man, thinking that could top Mother Nature, and with as fundamental a design flaw as possible back then. And now I'm rambling, in addition to nerding out on this one, given that Kate's anatomy is now in play here and I'm focused on ship design.

[D-West & PO-Z]

.

[xudash]

And a big reason why I don't visit as often. Now, I don't expect many really miss me but the people complaining may be few but they complain A LOT. They obsessively repeated their assertions even when facts are presented countering the argument and dominate these threads. This season more than any other XHoops has reminded me of another X board that many of us deserted.

Great post. Agree with you completely.

And at least some of those people are being made to look very stupid right now.

[LadyMuskie]

And a big reason why I don't visit as often. Now, I don't expect many really miss me but the people complaining may be few but they complain A LOT. They obsessively repeated their assertions even when facts are presented countering the argument and dominate these threads. This season more than any other XHoops has reminded me of another X board that many of us deserted.

This is not just directed at you, blobfan, because several posters have said it. . .but if you're not visiting the board or staying away, how are you also so well versed in what's going on while you're staying away?

[fellahmuskie]

And a big reason why I don't visit as often. Now, I don't expect many really miss me but the people complaining may be few but they complain A LOT. They obsessively repeated their assertions even when facts are presented countering the argument and dominate these threads. This season more than any other XHoops has reminded me of another X board that many of us deserted.

My rule of thumb this season, starting in the conference, was to not read the board after a loss. Thankfully, we hardly ever lost two straight, so it was only a few days at a time. If people want to complain on here, that's fine with me, but it gets to be way too much after every loss (except maybe Villanova, which people seemed to accept).

[XUFan09]

My rule of thumb this season, starting in the conference, was to not read the board after a loss. Thankfully, we hardly ever lost two straight, so it was only a few days at a time. If people want to complain on here, that's fine with me, but it gets to be way too much after every loss (except maybe Villanova, which people seemed to accept).
The board after the Villanova loss was so strange. After every other loss, including the home loss to Villanova just a week prior, people were spewing venom. But that day, everyone was calm.

[xu82]

I guess I'm one of those that can watch a particular movie over and over and over again and be okay with doing that.

As Good As It Gets and LA Confidential are serious favorites of mine. GWH is solid as well, especially with Robin Williams and the role he played in it.

Titanic? I love history. I don't bring that up because of the movie, I bring that up because of the boat. There is a fascination about all that. The arrogance of man, thinking that could top Mother Nature, and with as fundamental a design flaw as possible back then. And now I'm rambling, in addition to nerding out on this one, given that Kate's anatomy is now in play here and I'm focused on ship design.

So, would you like to comment on whether you are more of a bow-man or more of a stern-man?

[paulxu]

.

This was a great post.

[Masterofreality]

No one said it was "pure" luck. That would just be absurd. But attributing no portion of an 81% shooting half to at least some degree of luck is equally absurd.

But I agree that in no way did we win either game through luck. We dominated.

Other than Jimmy Farr, who I love, you will shoot 100% on 2 inch shots. By that measure, we underachieved. :whack:

[smileyy]

Other than Jimmy Farr, who I love, you will shoot 100% on 2 inch shots. By that measure, we underachieved. :whack:

Its conceivable that Jalen could get tired after a hundred or so dunks.

[xudash]

[/B]

So, would you like to comment on whether you are more of a bow-man or more of a stern-man?

... .. ... . ... ... . .. ... .. .... ... .. ... ... ..... .. ... . ... ... . .. ... .. .... ... .. ... ... ... ... .. ... . ... ... . .. ... .. .... ... .. ... ... ...

[LA Muskie]

Other than Jimmy Farr, who I love, you will shoot 100% on 2 inch shots. By that measure, we underachieved. :whack:
I believe we have already proven this to be wrong this year. Unluckily.

[D-West & PO-Z]

This was a great post.

I felt creepy after my original post, lol. Just a period seemed more appropriate.

[xu82]

... .. ... . ... ... . .. ... .. .... ... .. ... ... ..... .. ... . ... ... . .. ... .. .... ... .. ... ... ... ... .. ... . ... ... . .. ... .. .... ... .. ... ... ...

Well, it's more content than the D-West post above, so we're making progress I suppose. I guess I'll take this as a "no comment", almost.

[XU Cowbell Kid]

Well, it's more content than the D-West post above, so we're making progress I suppose. I guess I'll take this as a "no comment", almost.

I prefer to think that he was speaking in Morse Code, what with all the talk of sinking ships and so forth. If I am correct, then I believe he said:

"SISESSEISIHSISS5ISESSEISIHSISSSSISESSEISIHSISSS"

[Masterofreality]

I just want to change the tone and relate a very sweet story about our coach.

I was able to sit right behind the Xavier bench at the Providence game in Rhode Island and sitting next to me were the parents of the Great Blue Man, Pierce, who now barkeeps at Dana's. In the next seat over from them was Lainee Mack, who was obviously playing hooky from school and made the roady with the team and her dad. We spent the whole game in a running conversation with Lainee and she was the team's biggest cheerleader.

At the end, when we lost in overtime, Lainee was heartbroken and tears were streaming down her face. As soon as the handshake line was done CMack immediately looked over at Lainee and when he saw her crying, he rushed over to her and swept her up,in his arms and told her "It's OK, honey. Just a basketball game." He then carried her all the way back to the locker room and he brought her back out to sit next to him during the post game radio show. At all times, he was more concerned over Lainee's state of mind than he was over just losing a tough game.

After one of the toughest losses of the year, Chris Mack thought it was more important to be a Dad and comfort his daughter. Not only that, he thinks it is important enough to try to have his family near him as much as he can- even during the season.

That is another reality of the man who is our Head Basketball Coach. We talk about how Xavier is a "family". Chris Mack lives it. And that is a reality we can all be proud of.

[fellahmuskie]

Public reps. Thanks for sharing.

[gladdenguy]

Great story MOR. Public reps

[xu82]

Yes, that really is a great story. It's also one of the (indirect) reasons I hope we can keep our coach when the bigger schools come calling. I don't think I need to expand much more. We get the history, the ties... and the economics of keeping a coach. This story was nice because it portrays him as a father and a man. You rarely get that perspective. It's nice in a lot of ways.

[Drew's Crew]

I just want to change the tone and relate a very sweet story about our coach.

I was able to sit right behind the Xavier bench at the Providence game in Rhode Island and sitting next to me were the parents of the Great Blue Man, Pierce, who now barkeeps at Dana's. In the next seat over from them was Lainee Mack, who was obviously playing hooky from school and made the roady with the team and her dad. We spent the whole game in a running conversation with Lainee and she was the team's biggest cheerleader.

At the end, when we lost in overtime, Lainee was heartbroken and tears were streaming down her face. As soon as the handshake line was done CMack immediately looked over at Lainee and when he saw her crying, he rushed over to her and swept her up,in his arms and told her "It's OK, honey. Just a basketball game." He then carried her all the way back to the locker room and he brought her back out to sit next to him during the post game radio show. At all times, he was more concerned over Lainee's state of mind than he was over just losing a tough game.

After one of the toughest losses of the year, Chris Mack thought it was more important to be a Dad and comfort his daughter. Not only that, he thinks it is important enough to try to have his family near him as much as he can- even during the season.

That is another reality of the man who is our Head Basketball Coach. We talk about how Xavier is a "family". Chris Mack lives it. And that is a reality we can all be proud of.

Awesome story. Mack said something similar in his interview with Rome today.

He said that while his kids probably won't care 20 years from now if we beat AZ, ,they will always care if he is there for them all the time. He said that being a father is his #1 priority.

Good perspective, good man. Chris Mack is MY COACH!

[xudash]

I prefer to think that he was speaking in Morse Code, what with all the talk of sinking ships and so forth. If I am correct, then I believe he said:

"SISESSEISIHSISS5ISESSEISIHSISSSSISESSEISIHSISSS"

Exactly. And my Morse Code is rusty. The Titanic's Morse Code that night was rude and arrogant.

MOR, excellent post about Chris Mack.

[xu82]

I prefer to think that he was speaking in Morse Code, what with all the talk of sinking ships and so forth. If I am correct, then I believe he said:

"SISESSEISIHSISS5ISESSEISIHSISSSSISESSEISIHSISSS"

Add a single letter "T" and you could have : SSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHEEEEEEEEIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIT
A scrabble winner! And a sentiment I'm sure to be uttered more than once on the Titanic.

[X-Fan]

I just want to change the tone and relate a very sweet story about our coach.

I was able to sit right behind the Xavier bench at the Providence game in Rhode Island and sitting next to me were the parents of the Great Blue Man, Pierce, who now barkeeps at Dana's. In the next seat over from them was Lainee Mack, who was obviously playing hooky from school and made the roady with the team and her dad. We spent the whole game in a running conversation with Lainee and she was the team's biggest cheerleader.

At the end, when we lost in overtime, Lainee was heartbroken and tears were streaming down her face. As soon as the handshake line was done CMack immediately looked over at Lainee and when he saw her crying, he rushed over to her and swept her up,in his arms and told her "It's OK, honey. Just a basketball game." He then carried her all the way back to the locker room and he brought her back out to sit next to him during the post game radio show. At all times, he was more concerned over Lainee's state of mind than he was over just losing a tough game.

After one of the toughest losses of the year, Chris Mack thought it was more important to be a Dad and comfort his daughter. Not only that, he thinks it is important enough to try to have his family near him as much as he can- even during the season.

That is another reality of the man who is our Head Basketball Coach. We talk about how Xavier is a "family". Chris Mack lives it. And that is a reality we can all be proud of.


Awesome story. Mack said something similar in his interview with Rome today.

He said that while his kids probably won't care 20 years from now if we beat AZ, ,they will always care if he is there for them all the time. He said that being a father is his #1 priority.

Good perspective, good man. Chris Mack is MY COACH!
Fantastic stuff! I really like our coach on so many levels. Talk about developing well rounded men. Whole package. Go X!!!!

[xeus]

I just want to change the tone and relate a very sweet story about our coach.

I was able to sit right behind the Xavier bench at the Providence game in Rhode Island and sitting next to me were the parents of the Great Blue Man, Pierce, who now barkeeps at Dana's. In the next seat over from them was Lainee Mack, who was obviously playing hooky from school and made the roady with the team and her dad. We spent the whole game in a running conversation with Lainee and she was the team's biggest cheerleader.

At the end, when we lost in overtime, Lainee was heartbroken and tears were streaming down her face. As soon as the handshake line was done CMack immediately looked over at Lainee and when he saw her crying, he rushed over to her and swept her up,in his arms and told her "It's OK, honey. Just a basketball game." He then carried her all the way back to the locker room and he brought her back out to sit next to him during the post game radio show. At all times, he was more concerned over Lainee's state of mind than he was over just losing a tough game.

After one of the toughest losses of the year, Chris Mack thought it was more important to be a Dad and comfort his daughter. Not only that, he thinks it is important enough to try to have his family near him as much as he can- even during the season.

That is another reality of the man who is our Head Basketball Coach. We talk about how Xavier is a "family". Chris Mack lives it. And that is a reality we can all be proud of.

That's a very touching account MOR. But I think there's a time to be the "head coach", and a time to be the "dad of the year".

[Backyard Champ]

Can't tell if Xeus is being serious..

[waggy]

If Mack brought a mutt to the games and let it shit all over the place, Xeus'd think that was great.

[xu82]

If Mack brought a mutt to the games and let it shit all over the place, Xeus'd think that was great.

Can he catch a frisbee? I'm a sucker for that stuff...

Also a fan of great coaches and dads, but those frisbee dogs are amazing! (Shit all over.... not so much)

[LA Muskie]

I just want to change the tone and relate a very sweet story about our coach.

I was able to sit right behind the Xavier bench at the Providence game in Rhode Island and sitting next to me were the parents of the Great Blue Man, Pierce, who now barkeeps at Dana's. In the next seat over from them was Lainee Mack, who was obviously playing hooky from school and made the roady with the team and her dad. We spent the whole game in a running conversation with Lainee and she was the team's biggest cheerleader.

At the end, when we lost in overtime, Lainee was heartbroken and tears were streaming down her face. As soon as the handshake line was done CMack immediately looked over at Lainee and when he saw her crying, he rushed over to her and swept her up,in his arms and told her "It's OK, honey. Just a basketball game." He then carried her all the way back to the locker room and he brought her back out to sit next to him during the post game radio show. At all times, he was more concerned over Lainee's state of mind than he was over just losing a tough game.

After one of the toughest losses of the year, Chris Mack thought it was more important to be a Dad and comfort his daughter. Not only that, he thinks it is important enough to try to have his family near him as much as he can- even during the season.

That is another reality of the man who is our Head Basketball Coach. We talk about how Xavier is a "family". Chris Mack lives it. And that is a reality we can all be proud of.
Outstanding story, MOR. Love it. And good on you, Chris. Good on you.

[kyxu]

"It's OK, honey. Just a basketball game."

Fire Chris Mack. Why doesn't he take basketball as seriously as we do?

[Masterofreality]

Here's his profile picture on Twitter. Cool.
1683

And right KY. How dare he not think basketball 25/7/366?

[Masterofreality]

In must say, that the LACK of posts/threads speculating on Chris Mack's coaching ability or his future at XU this fall is very refreshing. Sweet Sixteen finishes will do that for you.

I also thought it interesting in a recent Enquirer article about what the Coaches' thinking is now about what defense schematics to use. Remember when we kept railing about why a zone wasn't utilized at all last year...until the second half of the Providence game in Rhode Island? Here's what CMack said a few days ago:

"The Musketeers sprinkled in zone in the second half of last season, which proved effective against offenses and helped keep forward Jalen Reynolds out of foul trouble. So how much zone will XU play this season?

"I think it's a little too soon. I mean, we're only a few practices in," Mack said. "But I'd be lying if I said we weren't going to use it. It was extremely effective and our points per possession defensively were incredibly low when we played that. It would be dumb on our part if it didn't become a little bit of who we are."

[xu82]

It's a double edged sword - win too little and they want to replace him, win too much and we're afraid someone will steal him away. Unless you're a top 5-10 program, that is a fact of life. This has been a pleasant offseason, but I'm ready for games to get started!

[Emp]

In must say, that the LACK of posts/threads speculating on Chris Mack's coaching ability or his future at XU this fall is very refreshing. Sweet Sixteen finishes will do that for you.

I also thought it interesting in a recent Enquirer article about what the Coaches' thinking is now about what defense schematics to use. Remember when we kept railing about why a zone wasn't utilized at all last year...until the second half of the Providence game in Rhode Island? Here's what CMack said a few days ago:

"The Musketeers sprinkled in zone in the second half of last season, which proved effective against offenses and helped keep forward Jalen Reynolds out of foul trouble. So how much zone will XU play this season?

"I think it's a little too soon. I mean, we're only a few practices in," Mack said. "But I'd be lying if I said we weren't going to use it. It was extremely effective and our points per possession defensively were incredibly low when we played that. It would be dumb on our part if it didn't become a little bit of who we are."

But what has he said about The Hedging?

[xubrew]

In must say, that the LACK of posts/threads speculating on Chris Mack's coaching ability or his future at XU this fall is very refreshing. Sweet Sixteen finishes will do that for you.

I also thought it interesting in a recent Enquirer article about what the Coaches' thinking is now about what defense schematics to use. Remember when we kept railing about why a zone wasn't utilized at all last year...until the second half of the Providence game in Rhode Island? Here's what CMack said a few days ago:

"The Musketeers sprinkled in zone in the second half of last season, which proved effective against offenses and helped keep forward Jalen Reynolds out of foul trouble. So how much zone will XU play this season?

"I think it's a little too soon. I mean, we're only a few practices in," Mack said. "But I'd be lying if I said we weren't going to use it. It was extremely effective and our points per possession defensively were incredibly low when we played that. It would be dumb on our part if it didn't become a little bit of who we are."

I think the lack of posts and general talk in the media speculating about Chris Mack just goes to show you that he's not a top shelf product, and that he's not equipped to be the coach. If he were any good, then people would be talking about him and other schools would be wanting him.

Having said that, if there were a ton of speculation, then it would just go to show you how Chris Mack has no integrity and absolutely no loyalty toward Xavier. I don't know about you, but I don't want a coach who doesn't have any integrity!

I mean, seriously!! Why can't we just get rid of this guy?? Or...I mean...Why is this guy always looking to leave??

[MADXSTER]

Have you ever heard him state that he loves America. Maybe he is a terrorist? Are we going to sit around here letting him bad mouth America?

[muskiefan82]

He did say he enjoyed the trip to Brazil. Is he a drug smuggler? How do we know he didn't use the Xavier plane to smuggle drugs into America (which he may hate apparently). Who is investigating this? How can we let this stand if it is happening?

[STL_XUfan]

He did say he enjoyed the trip to Brazil. Is he a drug smuggler? How do we know he didn't use the Xavier plane to smuggle drugs into America (which he may hate apparently). Who is investigating this? How can we let this stand if it is happening?

This sounds like a job for the House of Representatives. Boehner's last official action should be calling a hearing to find out who knew what, and when they knew it.

[ballyhoohoo]

Maybe he likes Goldstar

[muskiefan82]

maybe he likes goldstar

Blasphemer!!!!!

[94GRAD]

maybe he likes goldstar

He has to go!!!!!!!!!!!

[xubrew]

Gold Star is better! I'm sorry, but it is! It may not be as Cincinnatified as Skyline, but it's clearly the better chili!

[XUFan09]

Gold Star is better! I'm sorry, but it is! It may not be as Cincinnatified as Skyline, but it's clearly the better chili!
Leave it to Brew to support the low-majors.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Gold Star is better! I'm sorry, but it is! It may not be as Cincinnatified as Skyline, but it's clearly the better chili!

This has to be a banable offense no? Mods? Mods? Bueller?

[MADXSTER]

I have to agree with Brew.

Skyline is sweeter and Gold Star is spicier. I like Spice in my Life.

[waggy]

Being in Cali means I only have Cincinnati chili if I make it myself, so I don't sweat the brand.

Actually, Skyline doesn't even offer spice packages. You have to buy it in the can, which I've actually never had.

[sirthought]

Our house likes both, but we tend to go to Gold Star much more often when choosing chili parlors.

Both brands came out around the same time. I see no reason why Gold Star isn't as much the Cincinnati thing. Pffft!



(Skyline has the cooler sounding name.)

[paulxu]

The Skyline in a can is horrible. Taste nothing like what you get in the restaurant.

But...back on topic for the thread....Benghazi!

[GoMuskies]

I think Ben Ghazi was in my homeroom freshman year of high school.

[D-West & PO-Z]

The Skyline in a can is horrible. Taste nothing like what you get in the restaurant.

But...back on topic for the thread....Benghazi!

I had it last week and made a threeway and it was fantastic.

[nuts4xu]

I had it last week and made a threeway and it was fantastic.

I make Skyline out of can at least once a week, and I enjoy it also. I do spice it up, and cook down some of the water/grease, but I'm fine with canified Skyline.

[paulxu]

some of the water/grease,

Exactly. Don't notice it so much on site. Also, mrspaulxu makes great homemade chili. So there's that.

[X-band '01]

Gold Star is better! I'm sorry, but it is! It may not be as Cincinnatified as Skyline, but it's clearly the better chili!


Leave it to Brew to support the low-majors.

Then he should be saying how awesome Blue Ash and Camp Washington Chili are under the respective leaderships of Jim Les, Tim Cluess, Larry Shyatt and any other under-the-radar coaches I'm missing.

[xubrew]

The firehouse three way at Gold Star is the gold standard of three ways. It's just the best. Gold Star is a thicker sauce (because that's what Cincinnati chili is) that's spicier. Hence, it is better.

[Masterofreality]

I think the lack of posts and general talk in the media speculating about Chris Mack just goes to show you that he's not a top shelf product, and that he's not equipped to be the coach. If he were any good, then people would be talking about him and other schools would be wanting him.

Having said that, if there were a ton of speculation, then it would just go to show you how Chris Mack has no integrity and absolutely no loyalty toward Xavier. I don't know about you, but I don't want a coach who doesn't have any integrity!

I mean, seriously!! Why can't we just get rid of this guy?? Or...I mean...Why is this guy always looking to leave??

Ah, Hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha!!!!! To this and all the posts after it!!

Public reps to Brew, since the ISIS of the Internet has me shackled, tied and bound.

[MADXSTER]

MOR, if you don't have anything pertinent to add to this conversation, go away. This is adult time.

[XU Cowbell Kid]

Where is the love for Pleasant Ridge Chili????

Actually, I don't think I ever had chili at PRC. Only the gravy cheese fries. I don't know if there was anything else they even served at PRC... I never actually looked at a menu.

[Masterofreality]

MOR, if you don't have anything pertinent to add to this conversation, go away. This is adult time.

Sorry, Mad. My chili commentating skills are not very spicy. Plus if I took a side in the great chili debate, I'd only be branded a "hater" of the other side.:biggrin:

[Masterofreality]

Good interview between CMack and Jim Rome today.

http://http://jimrome.com/audio/the-jim-rome-show/ (http://jimrome.com/audio/the-jim-rome-show/)

[bobbiemcgee]

Gold Star Guy Xavier MBA:

http://xtra.xavier.edu/xavier-magazine/a-chili-legend-comes-to-campus-gold-star-ceo/

[MuskieXU]

Good interview between CMack and Jim Rome today.

http://http://jimrome.com/audio/the-jim-rome-show/ (http://jimrome.com/audio/the-jim-rome-show/)

Good interview, thanks for posting. CM on coaching at Xavier "I love it here, I love the people at Xavier. Theres a huge commitment to basketball at Xavier. I cant see myself coaching anywhere else."

I like that answer.

[Blue Blobs Bro]

Does Mack ever rest? He's sitting across from me at my high school watching sycamore vs. middletown on a Tuesday one day after he just got back from Orlando.......

[paulxu]

Who is he scouting?

[Blue Blobs Bro]

Who is he scouting?

My best guess is Jaden Sayles, a 6'10 junior for sycamore

[Masterofreality]

Does Mack ever rest? He's sitting across from me at my high school watching sycamore vs. middletown on a Tuesday one day after he just got back from Orlando.......

"@christimack30: How convenient, my hubby asked me out on a date and Ohio HS basketball starts tonight! Game 1 here we go #concessionfoodyum"

[GreatWhiteNorth]

"@christimack30: How convenient, my hubby asked me out on a date and Ohio HS basketball starts tonight! Game 1 here we go #concessionfoodyum"

I like her humor.

[xu82]

I like her humor.

That, I love, and concession food I'm oddly fond of. Even the below par stuff is in my wheelhouse. I'm seeking help...

[xeus]

I make Skyline out of can at least once a week, and I enjoy it also.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ri791tauGmU

[XfansinKy]

That's just sad. I'm sorry that's the best you can come up with. Freshmen recruited to play the BIG Ten on one hand. Freshmen recruited to the BE is a liability.

Okay then. I guess football must have unequal sides of the ball. I thought it was 11vs 11.
Thank you.

[XMuskieFTW]

Anyone go to the Chris Mack show last night and anything of note?

[Masterofreality]

I'm just going to post this here.

If you haven't heard the podcast of the 12/3 Chris Mack Show, do yourself a favor and listen to it.

Great banter between Joe, Byron and CMack- and very early in the show, Joe pointed out that Chris was wearing a "Big East " logo pullover in the first half of the game vs the Cryers. The exchange is hilarious, but it was clear that CMack knew exactly what he was doing and a troll job was in process.

Priceless.

[atljar]

Where would I be able to find the podcast?

[XU '11]

Where would I be able to find the podcast?

http://www.55krc.com/media/podcast-the-chris-mack-show-xavierbasketball/

[Masterofreality]

http://www.55krc.com/media/podcast-the-chris-mack-show-xavierbasketball/

That link. Just click on the 12/3 show.

[xnatic03]

How's this for intimidating? I coach my 6th grade daughter in basketball (5-6th grade league). Friday we play the undefeated Blessed Sacrament team featuring Mack's daughter as the star player and Coach Mack on the sidelines helping to coach.

[XU after dark]

How's this for intimidating? I coach my 6th grade daughter in basketball (5-6th grade league). Friday we play the undefeated Blessed Sacrament team featuring Mack's daughter as the star player and Coach Mack on the sidelines helping to coach.

Hopefully your teams colors aren't red and black.

[xnatic03]

Hopefully your teams colors aren't red and black.

Luckily not. I think I would revolt and petition to change the school colors. We have a bit of the Georgetown color scheme going on.

[XU 87]

I just read through this thread. In light of some of the posts I read, I am amazed at how much Mack's coaching has improved in such a short time period.

(sarcasm font).

[Masterofreality]

I just read through this thread. In light of some of the posts I read, I am amazed at how much Mack's coaching has improved in such a short time period.

(sarcasm font).

Yeah, I guess he learned something in 61 pages!

[xufan2434]

I just read through this thread. In light of some of the posts I read, I am amazed at how much Mack's coaching has improved in such a short time period.

(sarcasm font).

There were a lot of exaggerated reactions in this thread, yes. And this team is obviously playing better than any other Mack team has right now with the guys he wanted on the roster. But I honestly don't think any of his criticism last year was really unwarranted. That team was so damn frustrating for 3/4th of the season and the consistency level was mind bottling. He pulled it all together no doubt, but in his first 6 years his teams had a lot of the same struggles and looked like it might not ever change

[MuskieXU]

There were a lot of exaggerated reactions in this thread, yes. And this team is obviously playing better than any other Mack team has right now with the guys he wanted on the roster. But I honestly don't think any of his criticism last year was really unwarranted. That team was so damn frustrating for 3/4th of the season and the consistency level was mind bottling. He pulled it all together no doubt, but in his first 6 years his teams had a lot of the same struggles and looked like it might not ever change

Yeah agreed. Was some of the criticism warranted? Yes. Did it often times go wayyy overboard? Absolutely.

[bobbiemcgee]

http://www.55krc.com/media/podcast-the-chris-mack-show-xavierbasketball/

Interesting comments on the 1-3-1. 280 possessions only .6 pts. by the opposition. Wow.

Did XU87 do this math?

[MADXSTER]

I show that C Mack has 143 wins under his belt.

Peter Edward Gillen 202
Skip Prosser 148 wins
Chris Mack 143 wins at present
Sean Miller 120 wins

[muskiefan82]

Here's hoping he has 173 at the end of the season.

[xudash]

Here's hoping he has 173 at the end of the season.

Hell YES! to that.

[Masterofreality]

Just checking....

Anybody want to criticize CMack now for what Xavier has done since this thread started?

Anybody? Thanks. Merry Christmas.

#InChrisMackITrust

[XUGRAD80]

Just checking....

Anybody want to criticize CMack now for what Xavier has done since this thread started?

Anybody? Thanks. Merry Christmas.

#InChrisMackITrust


Just remember....."you're only as good as your last loss". LOL


Haters will come out of the woodwork when that happens. Just have to ignore them.

[Fireball]

I'm just looking forward to an entire season without a "Fire Chris Mack" thread.

[xu82]

I'm just looking forward to an entire season without a "Fire Chris Mack" thread.

Those seasons are followed by Pay (and Keep) The Man Offseasons.....and all the angst that comes with that. Oh well, a nice problem to have.

[muskiefan82]

Just checking....

Anybody want to criticize CMack now for what Xavier has done since this thread started?

Anybody? Thanks. Merry Christmas.

#InChrisMackITrust

Crickets.......for now.

[xukeith]

Does Coach Mack tell JPM to keep shooting 3's with no X players underneath the basket?

[XUFan09]

JP gonna JP.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

[xubrew]

Just checking....

Anybody want to criticize CMack now for what Xavier has done since this thread started?

Anybody? Thanks. Merry Christmas.

#InChrisMackITrust

Say what you want to about Chris Mack. In our last game we fell behind to a team we should have blown out, and that's gonna end up costing us at least one game in the future! I say we get rid of him before it bites us in the ass!! He also hasn't beaten a top ten team on the road, and the second he does, he's just gonna leave anyway!! No loyalty whatsoever!

He still hasn't said anything about loving America either!!!

The thick lead lining to winning a national championship will be that we end up stuck with Chris Mack for God knows how long!! Unless, of course, he leaves, which he might, because he has no loyalty!

[waggy]

MOR why you bumping this thread...? You were on Mack's ass as much as anyone.

[X-band '01]

Festivus 2015 is over, Waggy.

[Emp]

Mack has, for Xavier EVER, almost an embarrassing roster with talent. He's developed that talent. Farr, Bluett, Davis, Reynolds, all better than when they arrived.

Able came equipped to play D, play lots of minutes, and deliver offense. Mack could see how Able could help.

Red shirting Sumner was probably obvious, but what a gift: keeping him here, nursing and healing him. Then turning him loose in an experienced lineup that likes its shots and getting everyone to buy in. Some of Edmonds shots are coming out of Myles stat line. He seems very happy, none the less. That's good coaching.
Having developed the talent, Mack is playing his line up very well, and has created enough cushion in the OOC games to give good minutes to the middle and end of the bench.

I freely confess I was not an enthusiast of the hire. He's a very good coach, and this is already a special season. Cool time to be a fan of his.

[Emp]

Festivus 2015 is over, Waggy.

Spit take!

[xubrew]

Xavier failed to move up in the rankings!! They didn't move up in either poll!!!

WHEN THE HELL ARE WE FINALLY GONNA GET RID OF CHRIS MACK!!??

How can you have this much talent, and not even move up in one of the polls??!

[nasdadjr]

I think the real question here though was how long did you have to look and how far did you have to scroll down to find this thread?

[xubrew]

about five seconds total. It was still on the top page

[nasdadjr]

I personally think Chris Mack should be fired for refusing to have hair. Everyone knows the only way to be a good coach is to have a full head of patinopari hair haha

[Masterofreality]

Now this thread is finally starting to take off!!!!!:lmao:

[paulxu]

That reminds me of something. One of you NCAA BB scholars will have the answer to this.

Which coach is most responsible for the necessity of college coaches to dress like they are going to a dinner party at the Ritz every game?

Well, at least everybody but Majerus. He was following the Carnesecca program.

[xubrew]

That reminds me of something. One of you NCAA BB scholars will have the answer to this.

Which coach is most responsible for the necessity of college coaches to dress like they are going to a dinner party at the Ritz every game?

Well, at least everybody but Majerus. He was following the Carnesecca program.

I don't know, but I'm curious to know the answer. Basketball is the only sport where the coaches are expected to wear suits. Shouldn't one of the perks to working in athletics be that you don't have to wear a suit?

[D-West & PO-Z]

I think hockey coaches wear suits. Do soccer coaches?

Suits arent nearly as ridiculous as baseball managers wearing baseball uniforms. Can we get rid of that already?

[X-band '01]

Nowadays, most coaches just wear baseball pants and the equivalent of a hoodie T-shirt.

[xubrew]

I think hockey coaches wear suits. Do soccer coaches?

Suits arent nearly as ridiculous as baseball managers wearing baseball uniforms. Can we get rid of that already?

The vast majority of soccer coaches do not. I haven't seen a single college soccer coach that wears a suit.

I never understood the baseball managers and coaches wearing uniforms either. The only guess I have at an explanation is that back in the day, and by that I mean over 100 years ago, the managers and coaches were sometimes players. It could just be that the tradition never changed.

[GreatWhiteNorth]

Can you imagine basketball coaches wearing team uniforms? The very thought of it makes me laugh.

[D-West & PO-Z]

The vast majority of soccer coaches do not. I haven't seen a single college soccer coach that wears a suit.

I never understood the baseball managers and coaches wearing uniforms either. The only guess I have at an explanation is that back in the day, and by that I mean over 100 years ago, the managers and coaches were sometimes players. It could just be that the tradition never changed.

Yeah that is my understanding as well why baseball managers do that, but enough already, time for a change, ha.


Can you imagine basketball coaches wearing team uniforms? The very thought of it makes me laugh.

Yeah very funny.

[xu82]

Can you imagine basketball coaches wearing team uniforms? The very thought of it makes me laugh.

Make them wear the "Larry Bird shorts", as my sons call them. Tight pants for guys. THAT would kill the ratings.

[blobfan]

Make them wear the "Larry Bird shorts", as my sons call them. Tight pants for guys. THAT would kill the ratings.

OLD guys. Can't you just picture Huggs in those old short shorts?

[xufan2020]

http://youtu.be/qmXacL0Uny0
0:54
One of my favorite Carlin stand ups.

[xudash]

OLD guys. Can't you just picture Huggs in those old short shorts?

Thanks. I was attempting to take a drink when I read this. But it was worth it!

[MADXSTER]

I couldn't find the Fire Chris Mack thread.

[Masterofreality]

I couldn't find the Fire Chris Mack thread.

I think it is sharing space in the underground catacombs with Hideous Redhead.

[xuwin]

I couldn't find the Fire Chris Mack thread.

Do some trolling and I'm sure you will find some biters. They are not gone. They are just temporarily dormant.

[xu82]

I couldn't find the Fire Chris Mack thread.

Wait till we lose a game.....some nut will dig it up for you.

[Masterofreality]

We all know that CMack calls Great out of bounds plays-especially base line ones. Here's proof: http://www.barstoolsports.com/barstoolu/breaking-down-baseline-out-of-bounds-plays-in-college-basketball-and-what-programs-excel-at-it/?_branch_match_id=439521880477605102

[GIMMFD]

We all know that CMack calls Great out of bounds plays-especially base line ones. Here's proof: http://www.barstoolsports.com/barstoolu/breaking-down-baseline-out-of-bounds-plays-in-college-basketball-and-what-programs-excel-at-it/?_branch_match_id=439521880477605102

4th??? or tied for 5th?? RIDICULOUS FIRE HIM

[SemajParlor]

We all know that CMack calls Great out of bounds plays-especially base line ones. Here's proof: http://www.barstoolsports.com/barstoolu/breaking-down-baseline-out-of-bounds-plays-in-college-basketball-and-what-programs-excel-at-it/?_branch_match_id=439521880477605102

How the "dumbass play" hasn't recieved national attention / how teams STILL aren't prepared for it is always mind boggling to me.

I think I heard Mack talk about it on a podcast and said it was created when he was coaching his girls High School team. It's extremely effective.

[GIMMFD]

How the "dumbass play" hasn't recieved national attention / how teams STILL aren't prepared for it is always mind boggling to me.

I think I heard Mack talk about it on a podcast and said it was created when he was coaching his girls High School team. It's extremely effective.

I love it, I can't believe that it works so damn often, you just gotta pin that on awareness and game prep. It's pretty tough planning for 30 games in a year, but good god, we've been running it for years and it still works at a extremely high clip.

[SemajParlor]

I love it, I can't believe that it works so damn often, you just gotta pin that on awareness and game prep. It's pretty tough planning for 30 games in a year, but good god, we've been running it for years and it still works at a extremely high clip.

The first time I remember it was in one of the OTs vs Kansas St. Crawford banked it off glass.

[GIMMFD]

The first time I remember it was in one of the OTs vs Kansas St. Crawford banked it off glass.

Good lord, it's been 7 years of that play already??? Time truly does fly huh?

[Xavier]

I love it, I can't believe that it works so damn often, you just gotta pin that on awareness and game prep. It's pretty tough planning for 30 games in a year, but good god, we've been running it for years and it still works at a extremely high clip.

Well, I would imagine every team knows we like to do it. I don't know if its a specific play call or what- I think its something set up where the first thing is to look and see if the defender is paying attention. If not- quick pass- if so go on with the regular play.

[Masterofreality]

How the "dumbass play" hasn't recieved national attention / how teams STILL aren't prepared for it is always mind boggling to me.

I think I heard Mack talk about it on a podcast and said it was created when he was coaching his girls High School team. It's extremely effective.

Haven’t we run that at least 4 times in the first 2 games this year?

[The Coz]

Haven’t we run that at least 4 times in the first 2 games this year?


Well just Check The Tape, High expectations, No Excuses.

[Masterofreality]

My original post on this thread is now 3 years old.

My how some perceptions have changed.

(And RIP Always Learning).

[paulxu]

Where did DC Muskie go?

[Masterofreality]

Where did DC Muskie go?

He's alive and thriving, just not on this board.

In fact I'm sitting with the Great Man at the DC Georgetown game. We used to have some real debates on this Board, but I love the guy.

[GoMuskies]

He's alive and thriving, just not on this board.


It's impossible to be both thriving and not on this board. RIP DC Muskie.

[Masterofreality]

It's impossible to be both thriving and not on this board. RIP DC Muskie.

I’ll talk to him about that but I think he’s happier not having to put up with my nonsense.

[deepX]

I’ll talk to him about that but I think he’s happier not having to put up with my nonsense.

No argument from anyone here on that point!

[vee4xu]

I have backed off significantly from both reading and posting over the past few years. I have to admit, it's been pretty, pretty, pretty good, overall. Striking the right balance and picking the right topics to which to respond makes all the difference. For me, it isn't RIP, just R and that has helped.

[GoMuskies]

I have backed off significantly from both reading and posting over the past few years.

You've been around less? Hadn't noticed. :)