Xavier v. Villanova (January 10, 2017) Big East Game #4

[Muskie]

http://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/teamlogos/ncaa/500/2752.png&h=150&w=150vs. http://www.xavierhoops.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=2129&stc=1
January 10, 2017
Game Time: 7:00 p.m.


TV: Fox Sports One
RADIO: 700 WLW (https://www.iheart.com/live/700wlw-1713/?autoplay=true&pname=1209&campid=header&cid=index.html)

Live Chat (http://webchat.freenode.net/?channels=XavierHoops)
Live Stats (http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/gametracker/live/NCAAB_20170110_XAVIER@NOVA)

[paulxu]

Johnson and Raftery on the call.

[xufan2434]

Been looking forward to this game for a while now. Regardless of rankings and how the season has gone so far, I still think X and Nova are the 2 best teams in this conference when at their best. I think there's a mutual level of respect among the players from both these teams that maybe you don't see in the rest of the conference. Ed/Tre and Hart/Brunson,etc were all at the same camps all summer long and know each other pretty well. Just purely from a college basketball fan, this is when the big boys come to play and I can't wait to see it

[GoMuskies]

Big East title on the line. Win this one and we've got a real shot.

[bleedXblue]

We are playing pretty well right now......

I think if we can contain Brunson and limit him to a marginal game we have a chance.

I think Hart is going to do what he does.

[xufan2434]

We are playing pretty well right now......

I think if we can contain Brunson and limit him to a marginal game we have a chance.

I think Hart is going to do what he does.

Not to mention mention Jenkins too. Hopefully Ed's length can cause some problems on Brunson. Malcolm and Tre are going to be the 2 guarding Hart and Jenkins. Question becomes, if you were Mack, which one specifically would you put on who

[xu82]

Obviously I have no idea how this turns out, but I feel much, much better about this game than I would have just a few weeks ago. This team seems to be making very real progress.

[XUFan09]

Not to mention mention Jenkins too. Hopefully Ed's length can cause some problems on Brunson. Malcolm and Tre are going to be the 2 guarding Hart and Jenkins. Question becomes, if you were Mack, which one specifically would you put on who
Malcolm on Hart, Trevon on Jenkins, no question. Jenkins is having a great year but Hart is on a whole different level. You want the guy who is probably our best defender on Hart. Also, in terms of play style, they just match up better that way. Trevon might guard Hart sometimes, but I doubt it is when Malcolm or Kaiser are on the court outside of a switch off a screen.

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[GoMuskies]

Obviously I have no idea how this turns out, but I feel much, much better about this game than I would have just a few weeks ago. This team seems to be making very real progress.

To your point, it's really impossible to tell. We've looked really good at home against some relatively shitty teams. That's certainly a good thing. But our last outing on the road, while a win, was still nothing to write home about. We really have not played what I would consider a high quality game on the road yet (though hanging with #1 Baylor for 25-30 minutes was pretty impressive in retrospect....let's just not talk about the last 10-15 minutes!).

It's definitely going to take a much, much better effort than we've seen out of this group on the road so far to have a shot.

[bleedXblue]

To your point, it's really impossible to tell. We've looked really good at home against some relatively shitty teams. That's certainly a good thing. But our last outing on the road, while a win, was still nothing to write home about. We really have not played what I would consider a high quality game on the road yet (though hanging with #1 Baylor for 25-30 minutes was pretty impressive in retrospect....let's just not talk about the last 10-15 minutes!).

It's definitely going to take a much, much better effort than we've seen out of this group on the road so far to have a shot.

Agreed.......Villanova is one tough team and even when they are down, you have to remain 100% focused at the task at hand and not get rattled. It will be interesting to see if we can stick with our game plan, take care of the ball and knock down some clutch shots.

[xufan2434]

Malcolm on Hart, Trevon on Jenkins, no question. Jenkins is having a great year but Hart is on a whole different level. You want the guy who is probably our best defender on Hart. Also, in terms of play style, they just match up better that way. Trevon might guard Hart sometimes, but I doubt it is when Malcolm or Kaiser are on the court outside of a switch off a screen.

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I would agree, especially when Kaiser is in the game. But honest question, does everyone really think Malcolm is their best on ball defender? I'm not knocking him at all, and the reports of his game said he was a great defender when he got here. Just now that I'm thinking about it, outside of the block against Mizzou I can't remember any specific plays he's made. Then again that's probably to his credit that he's not getting beat and they're not going at him. And hell maybe I just haven't paid enough attention to it. Just wanted to see what you all think of him so far

[SemajParlor]

Malcolm on Hart, Trevon on Jenkins, no question. Jenkins is having a great year but Hart is on a whole different level. You want the guy who is probably our best defender on Hart. Also, in terms of play style, they just match up better that way. Trevon might guard Hart sometimes, but I doubt it is when Malcolm or Kaiser are on the court outside of a switch off a screen.

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I would argue that Ed is our best defender. I'd love to see if Mack mixes it up and puts him on Hart occasionally.

[Muskeagle]

To your point, it's really impossible to tell. We've looked really good at home against some relatively shitty teams. That's certainly a good thing. But our last outing on the road, while a win, was still nothing to write home about. We really have not played what I would consider a high quality game on the road yet (though hanging with #1 Baylor for 25-30 minutes was pretty impressive in retrospect....let's just not talk about the last 10-15 minutes!).

It's definitely going to take a much, much better effort than we've seen out of this group on the road so far to have a shot.

Your point is well taken, but I'd say the team is looking significantly better of late. The Providence game was our biggest margin of victory in a Big East game in our 4 years in the league. The SJU game was a bit of a blowout and not nearly as close as the final score. The Georgetown game was a "bad performance" from our best player away from being a cakewalk win on the road (and I mean if he had ONLY been "bad"...say 3 for 10 from the field and another 7 points instead of "God awful"...0 for 10 and a single point). Despite his Bluiett's historically bad performance, it was a solid win. Beyond that, the eye test, seems to be telling us that the team is getting better. Gates is finding his way. Gaston is way better now than he showed early. O'Mara seams to be on the upswing as well. Jones and Goodin are both better.

I'm not saying we knock Nova off or anything...but clearly the team is playing better.

[xu82]

To your point, it's really impossible to tell. We've looked really good at home against some relatively shitty teams. That's certainly a good thing. But our last outing on the road, while a win, was still nothing to write home about. We really have not played what I would consider a high quality game on the road yet (though hanging with #1 Baylor for 25-30 minutes was pretty impressive in retrospect....let's just not talk about the last 10-15 minutes!).

It's definitely going to take a much, much better effort than we've seen out of this group on the road so far to have a shot.

Just looking good against bad teams at home is an improvement. I know it's a road game, but it's only Villanova! Haha I like our direction much better than I like our odds at Villanova. Just keep getting better, peak in March.

[xu82]

I would argue that Ed is our best defender. I'd love to see if Mack mixes it up and puts him on Hart occasionally.

Fouls, cheap or otherwise, would concern me to some extent. At least Q is stepping up and gaining confidence, so there's that....

[American X]

Big East title on the line. Win this one and we've got a real shot.

Win at Villanova and Xavier is in the discussion for a #1 seed.

[spursy]

Win at Villanova and Xavier is in the discussion for a #1 seed.

I wouldn't go that far...there are a lot of very good teams in the top 10 right now...Xavier probably has to win out to be in the conversation for a #1 seed. I do agree the Big East title is on the line and there is a lot to play for tomorrow.

Xavier is in the top 15 and our next 3 opponents are all ranked ahead of us. Let's get this gauntlet started with a W.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I dont know if this one win puts us in the conversation for 1 seed quite yet but we sure as hell dont have to win out to be in the conversation. We win out and we are most likely the overall #1 seed. No discussion needed. (I guess unless Baylor won out as well)

[STL_XUfan]

I dont know if this one win puts us in the conversation for 1 seed quite yet but we sure as hell dont have to win out to be in the conversation. We win out and we are most likely the overall #1 seed. No discussion needed. (I guess unless Baylor won out as well)

I agree, way too early to know what we need to do for a number 1 seed. However, I would be shocked if anyone in the top 15 didn't take a few more Ls before the season is over (Zags being the one exception as they have a bit of an easier road). I don't think we need to win out for a 1 seed, but I also think at think that we do not "control our own destiny" insomuch as we are dependent on other teams losing.

[spursy]

I dont know if this one win puts us in the conversation for 1 seed quite yet but we sure as hell dont have to win out to be in the conversation. We win out and we are most likely the overall #1 seed. No discussion needed. (I guess unless Baylor won out as well)

Kentucky probably wins out, UCLA probably wins out, Baylor or Kansas probably win out, and then there is UNC and Duke (not to mention Gonzaga). Can't see the committee looking elsewhere to hand out #1 seeds than those programs. Lots of blue blood and large markets there. But I digress from the thread...and you are probably right, if Xavier finds a way to beat Nova tomorrow and wants to at least be in the conversation for a #1 seed they may not need to win out but they can probably only afford one more loss in my opinion. The top of college hoops is just so strong this year.

[xufan2434]

Kentucky probably wins out, UCLA probably wins out, Baylor or Kansas probably win out, and then there is UNC and Duke (not to mention Gonzaga). Can't see the committee looking elsewhere to hand out #1 seeds than those programs. Lots of blue blood and large markets there. But I digress from the thread...and you are probably right, if Xavier finds a way to beat Nova tomorrow and wants to at least be in the conversation for a #1 seed they may not need to win out but they can probably only afford one more loss in my opinion. The top of college hoops is just so strong this year.

I agree X probably can only afford to lose about 2 more games to be in the discussion. But to claim all those teams are going to win out is absurd. First of all, UCLA still has to play Arizona twice, Oregon once, and USC twice. Those are not cupcakes by any means. Also UK and Kansas play in a week so one of them is losing. UK also still has to play Florida twice. And I'm sorry, Baylor or Kansas are not going undefeated in conference play. I agree whoever wins the conference will get the nod, but they're not winning out (they play each other twice).

Honestly, I think it'll end up being UK, Big 12 winner, Nova, UCLA. ACC's gauntlet is going to knock Duke and UNC (unfairly) out of contention would be my guess. Unless Duke runs the table incredibly then they would for sure get it

[spursy]

I agree X probably can only afford to lose about 2 more games to be in the discussion. But to claim all those teams are going to win out is absurd. First of all, UCLA still has to play Arizona twice, Oregon once, and USC twice. Those are not cupcakes by any means. Also UK and Kansas play in a week so one of them is losing. UK also still has to play Florida twice. And I'm sorry, Baylor or Kansas are not going undefeated in conference play. I agree whoever wins the conference will get the nod, but they're not winning out (they play each other twice).

Honestly, I think it'll end up being UK, Big 12 winner, Nova, UCLA. ACC's gauntlet is going to knock Duke and UNC (unfairly) out of contention would be my guess. Unless Duke runs the table incredibly then they would for sure get it

It probably is absurd to think those teams are going to win out. That said... As much as I hate saying it, Kentucky should trounce Florida. USC is overrated and UCLA looks strong enough to beat Zona at McKale. I agree, winning out in the Big 12 is a near impossible task, but a loss at baylor or a loss at kansas is not hurting anyone's stock.

Put another way, I think those teams have a better shot at winning out than Xavier does getting a #1 seed.

[XUMIOH12]

why can't we ever play them at Wells Fargo

[GoMuskies]

why can't we ever play them at Wells Fargo

Because they're not dumb enough to schedule our game there.

[xufan2434]

why can't we ever play them at Wells Fargo

They play Seton Hall, Butler, and Creighton all at Nova too. The day we get a game at Wells Fargo is the day we're no longer good

[Muskie]

They play Seton Hall, Butler, and Creighton all at Nova too. The day we get a game at Wells Fargo is the day we're no longer good They are doing renovations to their arena next season, so they will have to play us somewhere (probably Wells Fargo) next year.

[GoMuskies]

They are doing renovations to their arena next season, so they will have to play us somewhere (probably Wells Fargo) next year.

Woo hoo!

[xufan2434]

They are doing renovations to their arena next season, so they will have to play us somewhere (probably Wells Fargo) next year.

Ironically.. depending on who is all gone after this year. X might not be that good lol

[RetireFiftyTu]

‪Big key for X tomorrow: stay down on pump fakes. VU utilizes pump fakes a ton. All it takes is 1 guy to bite and it breaks down the whole D. To start, I think X puts Ed on Brunson, JP on Bridges, Bernard on Hart, Tre on Jenkins, and then Gaston on Reynolds.‬ I think the only way X can pull out the win is if Sumner, Bluiett, and Macura all play well and they don't have any fouls trouble or awful performances from the bench. So not quite perfect, but pretty close to it.

[JTG]

Big East title on the line. Win this one and we've got a real shot.

Ahhh, don't forget visiting Omaha and our trip to the Island of misfit clocks aka Butler.

[MuskiePimp23]

‪Big key for X tomorrow: stay down on pump fakes. VU utilizes pump fakes a ton. All it takes is 1 guy to bite and it breaks down the whole D. To start, I think X puts Ed on Brunson, JP on Bridges, Bernard on Hart, Tre on Jenkins, and then Gaston on Reynolds.‬ I think the only way X can pull out the win is if Sumner, Bluiett, and Macura all play well and they don't have any fouls trouble or awful performances from the bench. So not quite perfect, but pretty close to it.

Why is it that everyone seems to think we have no chance? We have the most talented player on the court for both teams in Edmond Sumner. Hart, Jenkins, Brunson are all studs, but so is Bluiett and Macura. The big difference is Nova only goes 7 deep with Phil Booth being out. We can wear them down and I think we can win. Just have to play our game. It can certainly happen.

[XMuskieFTW]

Why is it that everyone seems to think we have no chance? We have the most talented player on the court for both teams in Edmond Sumner. Hart, Jenkins, Brunson are all studs, but so is Bluiett and Macura. The big difference is Nova only goes 7 deep with Phil Booth being out. We can wear them down and I think we can win. Just have to play our game. It can certainly happen.

I think it's hard for people to get our last 3 trips to Nova out of their head. We definitely have a shot. I'd put it around 25% though.

[bjf123]

Why is it that everyone seems to think we have no chance? We have the most talented player on the court for both teams in Edmond Sumner. Hart, Jenkins, Brunson are all studs, but so is Bluiett and Macura. The big difference is Nova only goes 7 deep with Phil Booth being out. We can wear them down and I think we can win. Just have to play our game. It can certainly happen.

If we were playing them in the friendly confines of Cintas, I think we win. Playing them on their home court makes it MUCH tougher to win. Can we beat them there? Yep. Will we? Nope.


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[bleedXblue]

Why is it that everyone seems to think we have no chance? We have the most talented player on the court for both teams in Edmond Sumner. Hart, Jenkins, Brunson are all studs, but so is Bluiett and Macura. The big difference is Nova only goes 7 deep with Phil Booth being out. We can wear them down and I think we can win. Just have to play our game. It can certainly happen.

Agreed.

No matter what happens, I hope we play with poise and composure and don't get rattled.

We cant afford a shellacking.

[Xville]

Why is it that everyone seems to think we have no chance? We have the most talented player on the court for both teams in Edmond Sumner. Hart, Jenkins, Brunson are all studs, but so is Bluiett and Macura. The big difference is Nova only goes 7 deep with Phil Booth being out. We can wear them down and I think we can win. Just have to play our game. It can certainly happen.

While i agree x has a chance in the game, the whole "deep" thing is so overrated. X was 9-10 deep last year and though they had a pretty good reg season, it didnt do anything for the tourney. Most great teams are 7-8 deep just like nova was last year. You dont wear down 18-22 year old basketball players...this isnt football

[xufan2434]

Agreed.

No matter what happens, I hope we play with poise and composure and don't get rattled.

We cant afford a shellacking.

Which has happened every single time X has played at Nova so far. They have not been competitive in any of the 3 games @ Nova since joining the BE. So, sorry if people might have a little skepticism in their heads. I don't think anyone is saying X doesn't have a chance, but they're going to have to play as good as they have all year to be in it at the end. The least amount they've lost by at the Pavillion is 13 with LAJ starting and it really wasn't that close. I know this is a different team and different year, I just think Nova gets up to play X. Also, IMO this is the one guy in conference that out coaches Mack most of the time we meet. Hoping it turns out different and looking forward to tonight, but also realize what might happen

[THRILLHOUSE]

To be fair, it's hard to judge last years game at Nova since the team was completely out of it after the Sumner fall.

[xufan2434]

To be fair, it's hard to judge last years game at Nova since the team was completely out of it after the Sumner fall.

And I completely get that. Team was shook, hell I was shook. Just having gone back and watched what happened after the fall, they made the same mistakes over and over again that they had previously made the 2 trips there prior to that. I'm just hoping tonight has a different script instead of that becoming the narrative of Mack teams in the Pavillion. I'm confident they will, need to take care of the ball and obviously that starts with Ed who's playing his best in an X uni currently

[Xavier]

Why is it that everyone seems to think we have no chance? We have the most talented player on the court for both teams in Edmond Sumner. Hart, Jenkins, Brunson are all studs, but so is Bluiett and Macura. The big difference is Nova only goes 7 deep with Phil Booth being out. We can wear them down and I think we can win. Just have to play our game. It can certainly happen.

I'm not sure I agree with that. Still, I agree with your overall take. We have a real shot, and I think Myles gets some run in as well and hit a couple big 3's. Absolute huge game in terms of seeding and winning the BE (Obviously).

[AviatorX]

And I completely get that. Team was shook, hell I was shook. Just having gone back and watched what happened after the fall, they made the same mistakes over and over again that they had previously made the 2 trips there prior to that. I'm just hoping tonight has a different script instead of that becoming the narrative of Mack teams in the Pavillion. I'm confident they will, need to take care of the ball and obviously that starts with Ed who's playing his best in an X uni currently

It's basically the narrative of every team at the Pavilion. When is the last time they lost there?

[Xville]

It's basically the narrative of every team at the Pavilion. When is the last time they lost there?

Not sure how many home games they play there every year, but it has been a while...last time was during the 12-13 season.

[GoMuskies]

Was the Creighton game their last loss there? Or was that in WF?

[RetireFiftyTu]

The last time Villanova lost at the Pavilion was February 3, 2013 against Providence. They haven't lost at the Pavilion since Xavier joined the Big East. I'm not saying Xavier cannot beat Villanova on the road. It's just going to be very difficult for Xavier to do so. Nova doesn't usually make dumb turnovers or waste possessions by jacking early threes. Something Xavier has done at times this season. For Xavier to win they can't commit dumb turnovers that lead to easy baskets for Nova. They need to start well. Mack has had to call a timeout before the U16 timeout in all three games at Villanova. They need all three of Sumner, Bluiett, and Macura to have good games. They need their role players to perform and support the stars. It's doable to win at Villanova. It's just going to be very, very difficult.

[THRILLHOUSE]

Was the Creighton game their last loss there? Or was that in WF?

You talking about the game where McDermott and Wragge were hitting everything in sight? That was at WF.

[Xuperman]

Here is an interesting way to look at this game. Simply compare their "Big 3" with ours. To this point both groups score 48 ppg, however our group out rebounds them and gets to the line more. So here is a simple recipe. Match them in points, out rebound them as a group and get to the line 10-15 times. That should do it and stats back it up. But if they turn us over 15 or more, that would be a fly in the soup....they are very good at taking care of the ball.

[markchal]

I'll be happy if we're competitive, like we were for (most of) Baylor. I don't realistically expect us to win, I think they are the better team and of course are unstoppable at home. That being said, I don't think this Nova team is as scary as the last few have been. Still the class of the league, but already have been in a couple tight games in league play.

[xufan2434]

If we're being honest, I'm just glad I don't have to see Arcidiacono pulling up from 30 on a fast break

[American X]

Villanova almost lost at home to DePaul. DePaul! This should be a breeze.

[muskiefan82]

Villanova almost lost at home to DePaul. DePaul! This should be a breeze.

DePaul was doing what cellar dwellers do. They do their best to hang an awful loss on a conference leader, but STILL come up short because, well, they're DePaul. I am quite sure Villanova was looking past DePaul.

[paulxu]

I think the last time they lost at the Pavilion was over 4 years ago, in December, to Temple.

[bleedXblue]

Which has happened every single time X has played at Nova so far. They have not been competitive in any of the 3 games @ Nova since joining the BE. So, sorry if people might have a little skepticism in their heads. I don't think anyone is saying X doesn't have a chance, but they're going to have to play as good as they have all year to be in it at the end. The least amount they've lost by at the Pavillion is 13 with LAJ starting and it really wasn't that close. I know this is a different team and different year, I just think Nova gets up to play X. Also, IMO this is the one guy in conference that out coaches Mack most of the time we meet. Hoping it turns out different and looking forward to tonight, but also realize what might happen

I think is very important that X shows up tonight and this is a game with 5 minutes to play.......

[X-ceptional]

I think is very important that X shows up tonight and this is a game with 5 minutes to play.......

Agreed. Almost no such thing as a "must win" this early in the conference schedule (unless you're Georgetown looking down the barrel of 0-5 until they beat St. John's, but I digress), but I do feel this game is a "MUST PERFORM" game.

I can't wait.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I think is very important that X shows up tonight and this is a game with 5 minutes to play.......

It is really only important to the fan's psyche. X has been blown out by good teams in high profile games and come back to be just fine before.

It may not be a good sign for how good this team is if we go in and get beat by the start and lose by a ton but in the grand scheme of what it means a 2 point loss and a 20 point loss really arent any different. It sucks really hard for us, the fans though.

Not to mention over the rest of the season we will be working in and getting back one of our top 4 players.

If we get blown out it will suck but I dont think its that important that we lose a close one.

[bleedXblue]

It is really only important to the fan's psyche. X has been blown out by good teams in high profile games and come back to be just fine before.

It may not be a good sign for how good this team is if we go in and get beat by the start and lose by a ton but in the grand scheme of what it means a 2 point loss and a 20 point loss really arent any different. It sucks really hard for us, the fans though.

Not to mention over the rest of the season we will be working in and getting back one of our top 4 players.

If we get blown out it will suck but I dont think its that important that we lose a close one.

So a lopsided loss doesn't affect the teams psyche? It doesn't send a message to the pollsters as well? What about the rest of the league?

We will agree to disagree.

Xavier need to show that they can compete and trade punches with Nova if they expect to truly challenge for a Big East title.

[AviatorX]

Is this at 630 or 7? I've seen both.

[X-band '01]

Game starts at 7 PM - pregame coverage on FS1 starts at 6:30.

[D-West & PO-Z]

So a lopsided loss doesn't affect the teams psyche? It doesn't send a message to the pollsters as well? What about the rest of the league?

We will agree to disagree.

Xavier need to show that they can compete and trade punches with Nova if they expect to truly challenge for a Big East title.

If you care about the pollsters I guess it matters. (I care in a general sense about the polls but not about one particular week or weeks in a season).

I think the impact on the team's psyche is minimal. We have seen Xavier get blown out in high profile games before and be just fine. I know we lost Ed but last year is an example. We got crushed in that game we dont speak of in NJ in '08 and went to the elite 8 that year.

What message does it send to the rest of the league? That they can beat us? Most of the league thinks they can beat us anyway. (and most can)

No the people it affects the most are fans, especially die hard message board fans.

Agree to disagree as well.

[X-ceptional]

If you care about the pollsters I guess it matters. (I care in a general sense about the polls but not about one particular week or weeks in a season).

I think the impact on the team's psyche is minimal. We have seen Xavier get blown out in high profile games before and be just fine. I know we lost Ed but last year is an example. We got crushed in that game we dont speak of in NJ in '08 and went to the elite 8 that year.

What message does it send to the rest of the league? That they can beat us? Most of the league thinks they can beat us anyway.

No the people it affects the most are fans, especially die hard message board fans.

Agree to disagree as well.

As with all things, the truth probably lies somewhere in the middle, right? I mean, the "eye test" matters for seeding too at the end of the year, and since we had some "weird" performances in the non-con, I really think it would be nice to perform well tonight (and preferably win). I don't know...

[X-ceptional]

Game starts at 7 PM - pregame coverage on FS1 starts at 6:30.

Gus and Raftery on the call!

[D-West & PO-Z]

As with all things, the truth probably lies somewhere in the middle, right? I mean, the "eye test" matters for seeding too at the end of the year, and since we had some "weird" performances in the non-con, I really think it would be nice to perform well tonight (and preferably win). I don't know...

Yeah probably true. And dont get me wrong I want a win or at least a competitive game and I will be personally very disappointed with a blow out but in the end a close loss and a blowout result in the same thing and will really only create different conversations on here depending on which happens.

The committee thing could come into play I guess but we also get Nova at home too later on.

[ammtd34]

Unless a team is unusually fragile, a blowout loss doesn't affect the psyche further than any other loss.

[American X]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C10WKzSWIAEw6R_.jpg

[D-West & PO-Z]

Unless a team is unusually fragile, a blowout loss doesn't affect the psyche further than any other loss.

Yes this is my thinking as well.

[D-West & PO-Z]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C10WKzSWIAEw6R_.jpg

I like the last meeting stat a lot more than the series stat.

[xu82]

I like the last meeting stat a lot more than the series stat.

You have good taste.

[STL_XUfan]

Tonight we ride!!!

[Snipe]

Long Live The STREAK!!

We have a one game winning streak against Nova. They don't stand a chance.

We need to take care of the basketball. They are a well coached team.

Like everyone else I have been waiting for this game all season.

It is time to embody our manifest destiny of Greatness. I am ready for our First Big East Title!

TONIGHT WE RIDE!!!

[Snipe]

tonight we ride!!!

tonight we ride!!!

[letskeepitreal]

Like I he start but worried about health of Sumner and fouls on JP

[Xville]

Looking great so far....keep it up!

[Xville]

Falling a little bit too much in love with the three ball

[muskieindent]

Both teams playing tough D.We aren't getting anything inside

[muskieindent]

How long has it been since we scored

[Xville]

Have shot 19 threes already...thats a recipe for a loss

[X Factor]

This team can't make shots on the road against good teams.

[Xville]

20 threes so ridiculous...newsflash guys..nova is leaving you open on the 3 point line because they know you arent making it

[GoMuskies]

I'd bet Nova in the second half. Last 8 minutes have been atrocious.

[muskieindent]

If we can't get anything inside,no way we can win. Don't really want Miles shooting even if he's wide open

[xufan2020]

O'mara is so frustrating to watch

[X Factor]

This team has shooters? Yeah right.

[letskeepitreal]

Yeah didn't like how that half ended but we're in the game

[XU 87]

Have shot 19 threes already...thats a recipe for a loss

Not if you make some.

[X Factor]

A LOT of those threes were very good looks, but we don't have good shooters. Simple as that.

[xufan2020]

A LOT of those threes were very good looks, but we don't have good shooters. Simple as that.
Trevon, JP, Davis, Gates, and Bernard.. you really think that?

[Xville]

Nova is extremely good obviously, especially at home. Have to get the ball inside...cant shoot 20 3s in a half and expect to win.

[X Factor]

Trevon, JP, Davis, Gates, and Bernard.. you really think that?

Trevon and Macura are shooting less than 35% from three on the year. Davis hasn't taken a shot in a real game in months. Bernard and Gates have 40% averages but not on a lot of attempts.

Trevon and Macura were both billed as elite shooters coming out of HS...

On the other side, you have Hart at 39%, Jenkins at 42% and Brunson at 45% from three.

[xumadman]

That was the worst, one sided refereed game I have seen since the butler clock debacle.

[AviatorX]

Good adjustment by Wright to go to the matchup zone. 20 3's is a lot, but even Mack said in the huddle that the vast majority were good looks he wants the team shooting and 2 were at the end of the shot clock.

Nova @ the Pavilion is arguably the toughest CBB game you can possible play this season. 20 mins left and a two possession game. Anyone would take that.

[Xville]

Trevon, JP, Davis, Gates, and Bernard.. you really think that?

Considering this team isnt close to the top 100 teams in 3 point field goal percentage, i do.

[nasdadjr]

Trevon, JP, Davis, Gates, and Bernard.. you really think that?

Yes... yes I do. My question to you is why don't you? On the season Xavier shoots below 35% from 3 pt range so why on any planet would you think we have good shooters? This is why I said Gates is nothing more than a young James Farr on the St. John's thread. The guy camps on the three point line and sits. We need a bigger presence inside and he is the answer. However, if he refuses to do it and use his size and strength then there is no shot X has in beating a team like Nova. You need bigs to play inside to win these type of games. If we don't get the ball down low we won't win cause our shooters just are not good enough

[HenryMuto]

Had ball up 8 missed a 25 footer and has been all downhill since.

[AviatorX]

Yes... yes I do. My question to you is why don't you? On the season Xavier shoots below 35% from 3 pt range so why on any planet would you think we have good shooters? This is why I said Gates is nothing more than a young James Farr on the St. John's thread. The guy camps on the three point line and sits. We need a bigger presence inside and he is the answer. However, if he refuses to do it and use his size and strength then there is no shot X has in beating a team like Nova. You need bigs to play inside to win these type of games. If we don't get the ball down low we won't win cause our shooters just are not good enough

Kaiser Gates will not be a good player in the 2015-16 James Farr role. Sorry.

Do you think X was a good shooting team last season?

[xufan2020]

Trevon and Macura are shooting less than 35% from three on the year. Davis hasn't taken a shot in a real game in months. Bernard and Gates have 40% averages but not on a lot of attempts.

Trevon and Macura were both billed as elite shooters coming out of HS...

On the other side, you have Hart at 39%, Jenkins at 42% and Brunson at 45% from three.
Bernard may be selective with his 3's but other than that I still view the other 4 as guys that can light it up from 3. I know you know JP and trevon are better shooters than their % indicate. Front court is still the biggest dilemma with this team

[Xville]

Not if you make some.

True, but this team isnt a good 3 point shooting team...

[nasdadjr]

That was the worst, one sided refereed game I have seen since the butler clock debacle.

Until the next game, then the next, then the next... talking about officiating is pointless the next game is always the worst officiated game ever.

[Muskie]

Sumner sure doesn't look like the best player on the floor tonight.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

[nasdadjr]

Kaiser Gates will not be a good player in the 2015-16 James Farr role. Sorry.

Do you think X was a good shooting team last season?

I believe what the back of the baseball card tells me and it tells me no we are not good shooters. Stats 15-16 games in don't lie

[letskeepitreal]

Yeah I agree that we need to play more inside. No reason we can't get 12-15 pets from Gaston Omaha and Jones but first half we have 4

[GoMuskies]

23-4 run.

[X Factor]

Here comes the blowout

[letskeepitreal]

Idont think Gates will ever be the rebounding machine that Farr was but think he needs to bang inside a little more

[X Factor]

Wish Sumner would show up in big games...1-8 tonight.

[GoMuskies]

Sumner can't finish anything.

[Xville]

Alright time to get the ball inside and drive toward the hoop

[X Factor]

Nice pass Ed

[Lloyd Braun]

I'm not sure Gaston on a hard show 28 ft out is a good idea.

[X Factor]

Does anyone have their head in the game?????

[Xville]

Mental mistakes over and over...sigh

[nasdadjr]

Idont think Gates will ever be the rebounding machine that Farr was but think he needs to bang inside a little more

He needs to be otherwise it's a waste of size. Know your role and do what your body allows you to do. Big guys play inside it's pretty simple.

[X Factor]

This team will not make a run in the tournament because they can't consistently make shots.

[Xville]

He needs to be otherwise it's a waste of size. Know your role and do what your body allows you to do. Big guys play inside it's pretty simple.

If he could be a josh duncan type player id take that...josh developed that inside game as an upper classmen

[XU 87]

This team will not make a run in the tournament because they can't consistently make shots.

Maybe X shouldn't accept their bid. Just accept the inevitable.

[X Factor]

The 2008 team, probably X's best team ever, had multiple shooters...this team no consistent threats from deep.

[Lloyd Braun]

He needs to be otherwise it's a waste of size. Know your role and do what your body allows you to do. Big guys play inside it's pretty simple.

Gates isn't a big. He's a wing.

[X Factor]

Ed stinks at finishing and then Gaston airballs a 2 footer..

[GoMuskies]

Sumner shouldn't ever go back to Philly.

[Lloyd Braun]

The 2008 team, probably X's best team ever, had multiple shooters...this team no consistent threats from deep.

Myles is a baller. A season is a lifetime...

[X Factor]

Gonna be another 20 point blowout

[Xville]

Looks like a typical mack coached team to me...good, not great. Last year was the year to do something and they screwed the pooch

[GoMuskies]

Wright laughs at our zone.

[sgarcia]

Looks like a typical mack coached team to me...good, not great. Last year was the year to do something and they screwed the pooch

BINGO! Mack is a very good coach. Wright is a great coach.

[X Factor]

Sick of watching us play like crap on the road against good teams!! Where is Trevon and Ed??

[GoMuskies]

36-14 run now

[Xville]

8 turnovers and shooting less than 30 % from our "big three" pee dripping down their leg

[GoMuskies]

8 turnovers and shooting less than 30 % from our "big three" pee dripping down their leg

Macura has been okay.

[GoMuskies]

Omara with a nice second half.

[X Factor]

And Nova knocks down another three like it's a layup...

[GoMuskies]

Please just take Sumner out. Better luck Saturday Ed.

[X Factor]

How many 20+ point blowouts will Xavier suffer at Nova?? Does anyone have balls on this team?

[letskeepitreal]

Yup, this is getting ugly. We just don't seem tough enough for 'Nova!

[XfansinKy]

This year is the year before Paul Scruggs gets here.

[Xville]

How many 20+ point blowouts will Xavier suffer at Nova?? Does anyone have balls on this team?

Nope which is part of the problem...last player that had any was tu...jalen liked to act like he was tough but he wasnt. We need a killer instinct type player in this program again so bad

[vee4xu]

As that good ole boy Dandy Don used to say on MNF: Turn out the lights, the party's over!

Well, this gives X a pretty good feeling of where they are based on this mid-term exam! Plenty to do before the year-end finals arrive.

[nasdadjr]

Please just take Sumner out. Better luck Saturday Ed.

Been saying it all year Ed is complete RAW talent. Has the physical tools but can't run a team yet and has almost no real jumper. If he leaves this year he goes to the D league at best.

[AviatorX]

Looks like a typical mack coached team to me...good, not great. Last year was the year to do something and they screwed the pooch

Dude...might wanna take the last few minutes of this one off. Mack has the X program playing consistently at a very high level. This is Xavier, not Kansas.

[gladdenguy]

Beat a bunch of bad teams at home. Blown out against 2 good teams on the road.
Oh well.

[xukeith]

Nope which is part of the problem...last player that had any was tu...jalen liked to act like he was tough but he wasnt. We need a killer instinct type player in this program again so bad

X has no front court player to feed the ball. Defense shuts down guards and X looks confused and desperate. 3rd place? No reliable players

[Muskeagle]

To all you folks who think this team sucks so bad...please go root for someone else. I'm not saying you have to be rowdy and this team is awesome and nEver does wrong...but holy hell. 13 pages and the game isn't over. We win three games and no one posts. We do what 45 straight teams have done and you all come out. Just go away.

[vee4xu]

Beat a bunch of bad teams at home. Blown out against 2 good teams on the road.
Oh well.

Long time no talk or no see. How you been, bro? Tonight excepted, of course.

[XUBob]

Agree with the point that this team needs to be mentally tougher. When other teams make a run, we rely on jump shots way too much.

[XfansinKy]

Been saying it all year Ed is complete RAW talent. Has the physical tools but can't run a team yet and has almost no real jumper. If he leaves this year he goes to the D league at best.

Ed won't be the starting PG next year if he is here. He might play 2 but Scruggs is that big, muscular tough guy type player X has missed since TU. Add Naji and X has two tough guys that Xavier basketball is about.

[X Factor]

We do what 45 straight teams have done and you all come out. Just go away.

I'm pretty sure A LOT of teams have kept it within 20 points of Nova at this place.

Two road games against Top 10 teams this year and Xavier will lose by a combined 30+ points.

[GoMuskies]

To all you folks who think this team sucks so bad...please go root for someone else. I'm not saying you have to be rowdy and this team is awesome and nEver does wrong...but holy hell. 13 pages and the game isn't over. We win three games and no one posts. We do what 45 straight teams have done and you all come out. Just go away.

To everyone who doesnt like the posts in this thread, go away and find another thread to post in.

[Xville]

To all you folks who think this team sucks so bad...please go root for someone else. I'm not saying you have to be rowdy and this team is awesome and nEver does wrong...but holy hell. 13 pages and the game isn't over. We win three games and no one posts. We do what 45 straight teams have done and you all come out. Just go away.

We beat georgetown, st johns and providence. Its not exactly exciting. plenty of other teams will do that as well this year.

[vee4xu]

At this point, Villanova looking very much like defending NCAA champs and current Top 3 team. X not looking even like a Top 25 team at the moment.

[Lloyd Braun]

To all you folks who think this team sucks so bad...please go root for someone else. I'm not saying you have to be rowdy and this team is awesome and nEver does wrong...but holy hell. 13 pages and the game isn't over. We win three games and no one posts. We do what 45 straight teams have done and you all come out. Just go away.

If you read carefully it's only 2 posters.

[nasdadjr]

How many 20+ point blowouts will Xavier suffer at Nova?? Does anyone have balls on this team?

It's not balls it's just talent. Sumner is the only guy who can create his own shot. Problem is he can't make a jumper. Everyone else are set shooters. It just doesn't mesh well with Macks style of play. Not a criticism it is what it is.

[xukeith]

Agree with the point that this team needs to be mentally tougher. When other teams make a run, we rely on jump shots way too much.

X does not play top 25 defense. Lacks talent. Quitters and let's crowd get in their head

[GoMuskies]

If you read carefully it's only 2 posters.

If I'm one of the two posters, I'm pretty certain I can't be accused of only posting when things go bad. :)

[sgarcia]

To all you folks who think this team sucks so bad...please go root for someone else. I'm not saying you have to be rowdy and this team is awesome and nEver does wrong...but holy hell. 13 pages and the game isn't over. We win three games and no one posts. We do what 45 straight teams have done and you all come out. Just go away.

This team doesn't suck. This is just embarrassing that every year we go to Nova with a good team and a good coach we get killed. Make a damn adjustment. You know exactly how Nova plays. All 3's from the right wing. They overplay on defense. 1-2-2 trap. We don't try to take advantage of any of it. We just jacked up a ton of 3's and the game was over after we missed 10 straight.

[X Factor]

DePaul only lost by 3 at this place and Marquette kept it to 12...

Xavier has played like a bunch of scared kids. So tight they can't hit the broad side of a barn...

[scoscox]

If we could pound it inside that'd be great. they have no inside presence. pound it inside! it's not rocket science here Mack

[Xville]

Dude...might wanna take the last few minutes of this one off. Mack has the X program playing consistently at a very high level. This is Xavier, not Kansas.

So you dont want a final four and/or competing for championships? Mack hasnt done much to elevate this program im sorry but its the truth...we were winning league championships and making sweet 16s and elite eights long before mack became head coach. I want us to get to the next level.

[vee4xu]

X does not play top 25 defense. Lacks talent. Quitters and let's crowd get in their head

They may be feeling pressure from the crowd and the talent of a very good opponent, but I really think that calling these young men quitters may be the result of your extreme frustration at what's currently going on in the game.

[GoMuskies]

52-24 run

[X Factor]

Thought Gates was supposed to be our stretch 4? Jalen Reynolds would've shot better from three had he taken as many attempts.

[Lloyd Braun]

If I'm one of the two posters, I'm pretty certain I can't be accused of only posting when things go bad. :)

I was referring to the negative posters... in fact I need to rep you in the other thread for making me put my money on WVU

[letskeepitreal]

Guess on of the saving graces is that Myles is getting some playing time. Guess we have given up on a Gaston today?

[vee4xu]

52-24 run

Right in the lumberyard, Danny.

[X Factor]

They're not quitters, just can't play at a high level in a tough environment.

[GoMuskies]

This is just as bad as last year...just started better.

[nasdadjr]

Ed won't be the starting PG next year if he is here. He might play 2 but Scruggs is that big, muscular tough guy type player X has missed since TU. Add Naji and X has two tough guys that Xavier basketball is about.

I would love this. I've said all year Sumner is not a 1 he needs to be at the 2. The best shot X has at doing well this year in the tournament is to have Davis at the 1 and Sumner at the 2. It pushes Bernard to sixth man which helps tremendously

[X Factor]

Will it be a 30 point blowout? We can't use the Ed got knocked out excuse this year...

[sgarcia]

DePaul only lost by 3 at this place and Marquette kept it to 12...

Xavier has played like a bunch of scared kids. So tight they can't hit the broad side of a barn...

Marquette was down 30 and hit a ton of 3's near the end. Maybe the same for X?

[Lloyd Braun]

Thought Gates was supposed to be our stretch 4? Jalen Reynolds would've shot better from three had he taken as many attempts.

Pretty sure you say the same thing every game. Dude.. give it a rest.

[scoscox]

Nova doesn't look that good, but we have been horrendous. terrible shooting and massive mental breakdowns. another great effort from JP on defense

[vee4xu]

This is just as bad as last year...just started better.

Yeppers.

[nasdadjr]

DePaul only lost by 3 at this place and Marquette kept it to 12...

Xavier has played like a bunch of scared kids. So tight they can't hit the broad side of a barn...

In defense it just isn't Xavier. That is the hallmark trait of every Cincinnati team except the Cyclones.

[vee4xu]

Well, I'm signing off ladies and gentlemen.

Keep you chins up. The Trump inauguration is mere days away!

Go X!

[AviatorX]

So you dont want a final four and/or competing for championships? Mack hasnt done much to elevate this program im sorry but its the truth...we were winning league championships and making sweet 16s and elite eights long before mack became head coach. I want us to get to the next level.

Did I say any of that? I get that you're frustrated. It does suck that Nova owns X.

Macks best team got beat too early in March on two incredible plays by a great player. That sucked too. Doesn't change the fact that Mack coached his way to the best regular season and tournament position the program has ever had. Things are tending up, certainly not game by game, but overall I'm confident they are.

If you wanna say Mack hasn't elevated the program because he hasn't been to the Elite 8 or Final Four I can't argue with you, I just choose to take what I feel is the bigger picture look.

[GoMuskies]

1 for 20. Sweet

[letskeepitreal]

Given up on the inside game. This game is over

[X Factor]

Pretty sure you say the same thing every game. Dude.. give it a rest.

I'm just sick of watching this team crap themselves against other really good teams. Butler will probably win by 10+ Saturday.

Will our guys actually show up?

[XfansinKy]

This is a potential repeat national championship team X is up against. Nova has got big time athletes at every position. Our guys have maybe Sumner, Gooding, and Jones that are fast and have big verticals. That's it. Our elite level athletes are seniors in high school still.

[scoscox]

Yea, I would agree. Our best advantage is inside against them and we never even tried. offense needed to run through the paint

Baylor is also getting wrecked. how do you turn the ball over 28 times. Bobby Chuggins sure can run a press.

[nasdadjr]

I'm just sick of watching this team crap themselves against other really good teams. Butler will probably win by 10+ Saturday.

Will our guys actually show up?

I'm telling you now your gonna see a 180 when Sumner gets slid to the 2 and Myles takes over the 1. Ed ain't a pg never was and never will be

[vee4xu]

1 for 20. Sweet

I know I signed off, but man, I must be on an uber hiatus from this place. I just now noticed that you have 21,500+ posts here. Impressive. That is freaking strong.

[Boro Muskie]

And another missed layup followed by a turnover.
Just not a good showing.

[GoMuskies]

60-26

[X Factor]

Nova is so much better than us it's not even funny. They are so much more poised. They finish around the basket. They make outside shots.

We have 1 win against Nova since joining the Big East, at home last year by 8 points. Every other game has been a blowout!

[AviatorX]

I'm telling you now your gonna see a 180 when Sumner gets slid to the 2 and Myles takes over the 1. Ed ain't a pg never was and never will be

Wanna bet Sumner plays the majority of his minutes at point the rest of the year?

[XfansinKy]

Nova reminds me of UNLV back in the day with Johnson, Hunter, and Augmon. It's not fair to say coach Mack can't coach or these kids can't play when this Nova team is so freaking good.

[sgarcia]

Nova is so much better than us it's not even funny. They are so much more poised. They finish around the basket. They make outside shots.

We have 1 win against Nova since joining the Big East, at home last year by 8 points. Every other game has been a blowout!

Do you know what that's called? Coaching.

[GoMuskies]

Nova reminds me of UNLV back in the day with Johnson, Hunter, and Augmon. It's not fair to say coach Mack can't coach or these kids can't play when this Nova team is so freaking good.

They're not close to that good.

[X Factor]

I'm telling you now your gonna see a 180 when Sumner gets slid to the 2 and Myles takes over the 1. Ed ain't a pg never was and never will be

What's Ed gonna do at the 2? Continue to shoot 28% from three? Myles is NOT a PG either!

[nasdadjr]

Wanna bet Sumner plays the majority of his minutes at point the rest of the year?

I'll take that bet if the minutes count starts when Davis does

[scoscox]

Nova is not that good. we have made them look like unlv. so scared. so bad from deep. no inside attack. mack's been routinely embarassed by Wright

[GoMuskies]

Nipped by 33 after our 8 point lead.

[Nigel Tufnel]

That sucked. But the easiest money I've won in a long time. Nova -8 for game. Nova -3.5 2nd half.

[XfansinKy]

They're not close to that good.
They're good. They have basically the same size guys around 6'6-6'7 that all can dribble, defend, board, and shoot. Yea this Nova team is really good. At home too.

[XUOWNSUC]

Pittsburgh (Steelers), St. Louis (Cardinals), and Villanova (Wildcats) are my teams' overlords. It frickin sucks being a sports fan in Cincinnati.

[nasdadjr]

What's Ed gonna do at the 2? Continue to shoot 28% from three? Myles is NOT a PG either!

He becomes a slash 2 who can dish a bit. Bernard does nothing except sit in one place and have coffee with Gates on the 3 pt line. Davis is a PG he knows when to slow up and when to push, doesn't make many critical turnovers and gets players in the right place.

[sgarcia]

That sucked. But the easiest money I've won in a long time. Nova -8 for game. Nova -3.5 2nd half.

It's the easiest bet every year.

[xu82]

That sucked. But the easiest money I've won in a long time. Nova -8 for game. Nova -3.5 2nd half.

This was hard on all of us, you should share!

[X Factor]

It's like watching some old Skip Prosser teams against good teams...

[X-ceptional]

Motherf***er, NOVA is good.

[GoMuskies]

They're good. They have basically the same size guys around 6'6-6'7 that all can dribble, defend, board, and shoot. Yea this Nova team is really good. At home too.

They're really good. UNLV would be favored by 20.

[KabeX]

Best thing I can think to do in this situation (besides bourbon) is to forget it and move on.

Now then ...

BUCK FUTLER!

[X Factor]

He becomes a slash 2 who can dish a bit. Bernard does nothing except sit in one place and have coffee with Gates on the 3 pt line. Davis is a PG he knows when to slow up and when to push, doesn't make many critical turnovers and gets players in the right place.

Davis is NOT a PG. If Davis is our PG we're in real trouble...

[XfansinKy]

Motherf***er, NOVA is good.
That's what I'm saying. They've got guys hanging on the rim from every position. They get those knees bent and lock down on D too.

[X Factor]

Motherf***er, NOVA is good.

Xavier has sucked on the "big stage" this year! Nova is not THAT good. DePaul almost beat them at that place.

Xavier is not ready to win a conference championship yet...

[xu82]

I miss Farr.......

[X Factor]

That's what I'm saying. They've got guys hanging on the rim from every position. They get those knees bent and lock down on D too.

No they don't. Two of their starters, Brunson and Jenkins are average athletes at best.

[XMuskieFTW]

Xavier has sucked on the "big stage" this year! Nova is not THAT good. DePaul almost beat them at that place.

Xavier is not ready to win a conference championship yet...

Nova is not that good? Gtfo

[Blue Blooded-05]

In three losses this year we've shot 22 of 87 from 3. That's 25%.

[nasdadjr]

Pittsburgh (Steelers), St. Louis (Cardinals), and Villanova (Wildcats) are my teams' overlords. It frickin sucks being a sports fan in Cincinnati.

That's why I don't take this seriously anymore. I used to take sports real bad but the past few years I just don't care as much anymore. It's entertainment to me with very little emotional investment. That's why you don't see me on here going nuts like I used to. Taking any other view just silly anymore.

[nasdadjr]

Davis is NOT a PG. If Davis is our PG we're in real trouble...

He is more of one than Sumner. Sumner is a 2-3 not a 1

[X Factor]

Nova is not that good? Gtfo

Heck yeah their good, but we made them look like one of the greatest college teams ever! We have no one with any mental toughness who can go on the road in a tough environment and perform at a high level.

[xu82]

In three losses this year we've shot 22 of 87 from 3. That's 25%.

No reliable inside presence. Gaston was doing it for a while, but then.......POOF?

[XfansinKy]

This thread is cracking me up. Defending national champs and #3 ranked Villanova that just beat our guys up at every position..."They ain't that good."

[BandAid]

We suck on the road. Hopefully the guys can find the basket at butler

[X Factor]

That's why I don't take this seriously anymore. I used to take sports real bad but the past few years I just don't care as much anymore. It's entertainment to me with very little emotional investment. That's why you don't see me on here going nuts like I used to. Taking any other view just silly anymore.

Tell me how you do it.

[Caf]

A lot to process from that game. My main takeaway right now is that this team needs to find a healthier role for the 3pt shot in the offense. In our worst games this year, it seems that the offense creates good looks from 3 early, and then our shot selection goes to hell.

[X Factor]

This thread is cracking me up. Defending national champs and #3 ranked Villanova that just beat our guys up at every position..."They ain't that good."

And yet DePaul and Marquette can make Nova work for a win...

[GoMuskies]

This thread is cracking me up. Defending national champs and #3 ranked Villanova that just beat our guys up at every position..."They ain't that good."

Honestly, silly as that is, it's no sillier than comparing them to '91 UNLV.

[X-ceptional]

We suck on the road. Hopefully the guys can find the basket at butler

Can't shoot much worse.

(Famous last words...)

[scoscox]

I think this game just snowballed on us, buut Mack just got blitzed by Jay Wright. We needed to pound it inside. They're inside game is non-existent. Their wings are quicker than ours we're not going to beat them going toe-to-toe from the outside with Brunson, Hart, Jenkins, and Bridges especially when all five/six of Sumner, Bluiett, Davis, Macura, Gates, and Bernard have horrible games.

We will still be very good I think. We were let down by our backcourt/wings bigtime.

[XMuskieFTW]

Baylor must be abysmal too. Same thing happened to them tonight. The road on conference against top teams is really tough. I thought that was obvious.

[bleedXblue]

WTF?

Another dud at Villanova.

They are good, but not that good.

Mack had no answers and this teams ability to knock down wide open shots is officially a huge concern.

Add to that being void of being able to get stops when needed and run an offense that creates good shots......and all is well.

[X Factor]

Baylor must be abysmal too. Same thing happened to them tonight. The road on conference against top teams is really tough. I thought that was obvious.

Guess WVU would beat us by 50 at their place.

[bleedXblue]

I think this game just snowballed on us, buut Mack just got blitzed by Jay Wright. We needed to pound it inside. They're inside game is non-existent. Their wings are quicker than ours we're not going to beat them going toe-to-toe from the outside with Brunson, Hart, Jenkins, and Bridges especially when all five/six of Sumner, Bluiett, Davis, Macura, Gates, and Bernard have horrible games.

We will still be very good I think. We were let down by our backcourt/wings bigtime.

Agree with most if this, but Gaston and O'Mara are limited in their abilities. We just don't have the talent in the post this year.

[nasdadjr]

Tell me how you do it.

Spending hundreds of dollars on 3 games the Reds blew vs the Giants, watching the Bengals blow up and so on. What got me is the Bengals blew up vs the Steelers and I was devestated. I work in the casino and that night I didn't even want to work. Then a group of Bengal players came in... laughing, cutting up having a great time. I saw that and was like if they seem to not care why should I? Ever since I've cared much less and it's been great.

[bleedXblue]

Baylor must be abysmal too. Same thing happened to them tonight. The road on conference against top teams is really tough. I thought that was obvious.

The betting line was -8. We lost by 25. You cant f'ing sugarcoat that and make excuses. That's weak

[GoMuskies]

Agree with most if this, but Gaston and O'Mara are limited in their abilities. We just don't have the talent in the post this year.

Sure we do....unfortunately the talent is a freshman.

[GoMuskies]

Guess WVU would beat us by 50 at their place.

Huggs would definitely enjoy trying.

[XMuskieFTW]

The betting line was -8. We lost by 25. You cant f'ing sugarcoat that and make excuses. That's weak

It's one game. A really bad one but those happen. Hell, it was worse last year and we had an amazing team. If you want to jump off the ledge with everyone else that's up to you, but the extreme overreactions after every bit of adversity gets a bit old on here.

[X-ceptional]

Sure we do....unfortunately the talent is a freshman.

T. Jones line tonight:

6 0-0 0-0 0-0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Why not at least run him out there? O'mara was ok tonight, but at least let Jones get a couple fouls or something.

[xu82]

Sure we do....unfortunately the talent is a freshman.

A very raw frosh who may have better instincts, but even less offensive refinement that Jalen. That's saying something on both counts.

[xubrew]

It was a 6 point improvement from last season. At this rate we'll be able to win there in five more years.

[xu82]

T. Jones line tonight:

6 0-0 0-0 0-0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Why not at least run him out there? O'mara was ok tonight, but at least let Jones get a couple fouls or something.

I actually love the guy, but I'm shocked that he played 6 minutes with no fouls. Progress?

[mirabilelectu]

I'm telling you now your gonna see a 180 when Sumner gets slid to the 2 and Myles takes over the 1. Ed ain't a pg never was and never will be

I don't think Myles will run the point, he might get a little bit of time there but Ed will still be our primary PG. I also don't understand how Ed at the 2 makes us that much more dynamic, is it going to make him a better shooter or make him exhibit more touch on his finishes?

[X-ceptional]

I actually love the guy, but I'm shocked that he played 6 minutes with no fouls. Progress?

This, along with X outrebounding Nova by 1, is the silver lining!

[Lloyd Braun]

I actually love the guy, but I'm shocked that he played 6 minutes with no fouls. Progress?

He had a deer in headlights look... maybe we respect Nova too much? Maybe it's time to get nasty!

[Xville]

I think my 11-7 in conference is looking really good. Dont see this team beating anyone good on the road.

[X-ceptional]

This, along with X outrebounding Nova by 1, is the silver lining!

Thought about this more... maybe the tin lining. Aluminum foil lining?

[nasdadjr]

I think my 11-7 in conference is looking really good. Dont see this team beating anyone good on the road.

I said 10-8 but I know what your saying. I predicted a 14 pt loss tonight. Guess I have too much credit

[scoscox]

[QUOTE=Lloyd Braun;573628]He had a deer in headlights look... maybe we respect Nova too much? Maybe it's time to get nasty![/QUOTE

Agreed. Nove turned up the physicality mid way through the first half and we folded.

[bleedXblue]

I think my 11-7 in conference is looking really good. Dont see this team beating anyone good on the road.

I'm right there too. I think that's about right.

Post play is suspect and when we shoot it bad, its really bad.

[vee4xu]

Mack said in his postgame presser that X tried to shoot their way back into the lead from 3 pt line because they couldn't get the ball into the post against Villanova due to constant switching. He said, shooting their way back into the game from 3 pt line is not a recipe for success for X

[X Factor]

Mack said in his postgame presser that X tried to shoot their way back into the lead from 3 pt line because they couldn't get the ball into the post against Villanova due to constant switching. He said, shooting their way back into the game from 3 pt line is not a recipe for success for X

Then why did X continue to do that?

[scoscox]

Agree with most if this, but Gaston and O'Mara are limited in their abilities. We just don't have the talent in the post this year.

Limited yes, but Nova puts up little to not resistance in the paint. Sean is excellent with his drop step and finish. It was pretty apparent they had no answer for him I thought.

I'm not putting much stock in this game though, just like last year. We shot 29% from the field and 18% from three. That's probably not happening again this year. Every single player with a ball-handling role got exposed. It was good to see Myles out there. Can't wait for those shots to start falling.

[vee4xu]

Then why did X continue to do that?

I don't know and he didn't say why, but sure made it seem like it wasn't his idea. I suspect someone will have to ask him that follow up question.

[sgarcia]

Mack said in his postgame presser that X tried to shoot their way back into the lead from 3 pt line because they couldn't get the ball into the post against Villanova due to constant switching. He said, shooting their way back into the game from 3 pt line is not a recipe for success for X

I've never seen Nova constantly switch on all screeens said no one ever.

[Xville]

Mack said in his postgame presser that X tried to shoot their way back into the lead from 3 pt line because they couldn't get the ball into the post against Villanova due to constant switching. He said, shooting their way back into the game from 3 pt line is not a recipe for success for X

Well Mack this is where coaching comes in. He needs to hold himself accountable for this. This is what nova does i mean has he not seen them the past 4 years?

[MADXSTER]

It could be worse... We could be Dayton. #silverlinings

[bleedXblue]

Then why did X continue to do that?

Our ability to create shots through the offense was non existent. Pass it on the perimeter and chuck up a three. No one likes to go there, but Wright has Mack's number. He had no answers and the team made very few adjustments that worked. A shit sandwich for all involved. Oh well

[vee4xu]

Well Mack this is where coaching comes in. He needs to hold himself accountable for this. This is what nova does i mean has he not seen them the past 4 years?

Don't disagree.

[xu82]

It's one game, and on the road against the defending champs. Maybe this butt kicking makes them more coachable, and we work Myles back into the picture. I regret the Colorado loss, but other than that a good season so far. They will learn from tonight.

[vee4xu]

It could be worse... We could be Dayton. #silverlinings

As it relates to Villanova and Xavier, that comment is a slippery slope!

[vee4xu]

It's one game, and on the road against the defending champs. Maybe this butt kicking makes them more coachable, and we work Myles back into the picture. I regret the Colorado loss, but other than that a good season so far. They will learn from tonight.

Yeah, but we looked similar to this vs Baylor and who knows how we'll look vs Butler, Creighton and UC on the road. I'm a tad bit concerned.