Tweetbag – Gophers v. Gators Recap (Let the Fire Tubby Chants Begin…)

Posted on March 24, 2013 | Leave a comment

Welcome to a special Sunday edition of the Tweetbag!! Everyone wants to know if the Madness will continue for your Minnesota Golden Gophers.

As always, we are using your tweets, as they happen, to tell the game recap. Y’all are far more interesting.

Giddyup…

Even this Florida hoops squad --- the first --- might have outwitted Tubby's overmatched Gophers' squad.

Even this Florida hoops squad — the first — might have outwitted Tubby’s overmatched Gophers’ squad.

15:34 – Gophers 7 Gators 10

@AmeliaRayno – “Interesting lineup here as the #Gophers go zone on Florida.”

Interesting is one word Amelia?! Why does Tubby think he can play zone defense against a team that loves, and I mean LUUUUUUUUUVS to rip it from outside. Very questionable coaching decision. Roasio immediately punishes the Gophers with 2 3PTs to extend the lead to 16 to 10.

13:02 – Gophers 12 Gators 19

@daddycoolguy – “3 straight 3 point possessions = no good, you guys. #Gophers #Gators.”

First off, love the handle. Second, could not agree more. No good indeed. The Gophers offense looks like the offense from their 5-15 stretch to end the season, not the 15-1 stretch that they had to start the season and flashed on Friday evening against the Bruins.

Gophers started the game by isolating the Gator guards on the low block and taking advantage of their size and strength. Worked great. Hollinsanity both got open looks. However, they missed a couple of those looks and completely abandoned that plan. Need to get back to it.

Ben Wallace's jumper was so bad, teams would encourage the Pistons to pass him the ball 10+ feet from the hoop - Oto is entering the Wallace Zone. Ick.

Ben Wallace’s jumper was so bad, teams would hope the Pistons would pass him the ball. Oto is entering the Wallace Zone. Ick.

10:15 – Gophers 14 Gators 24

@Gopherapolis – “Why are we going so deep to our bench so early?! This is what infuriates me the most about Tubby. Oto should never leave the bench. #Gophers.”

Trust me, @Gopherapolis, it is not just you that is infuriated. Oto’s mom is angry at the amount of minutes he is getting for this team. He has never developed into the solid SG that he was represented to be when Tubby recruited him. The main reason for that is because he cannot shoot. He should get single digit minutes if that, only enough to spell either of the Hollins cousins.

What is worse, opposing teams know that and basically leave Oto alone like he is the second coming of Ben Wallace. Just no respect for his jump shot. And remember, he is supposed to a shooting guard.

7:54 – Gophers 15 Gators 30

@dip4516 – Lady who screams right before every #Gophers free throw: shut the hell up.”

I am not sure when this started, but it seems like this year’s tournament is the year of the “screaming like a maniac during the opposing team’s free throw.” Frankly, this has got to stop. I am not pushing a golf-like restriction on crowd noise, but we, as fans, need to use the gray matter between their ears. Call it a a common sense test. If everyone WATCHING ON THEIR TV is annoyed with the screaming, that is probably too much.

Oh, and Oto just air-balled a 15 footer. Again, this guy is  a shooting guard?!

4:24 – Gophers 18 Gators 37

@DustyTrunks - “You laugh at Oto now, but next year when he is starting, you will laugh even harder. #Gophers”

Okay, last one. I just could not resist.

3:42 – Gophers 21 Gators 39

@kskrigbaum – “At the moment Billy Donovan looks bored. #gophers”

Never good when the opposing coach is checking out and we are not even through the 1st half. Serious problems. Evidently he was only playing though, he just drew up a defense to thwart the Gophers side-inbounds play. No joke, Gophers could not execute a side-inbounds play.

More than anything this season, the Gophers inability to inbound the basketball is direct reflection of Tubby. I know the players need to make plays, but seriously?! An inbounds play?! You run these when you first decide to pick up a basketball. It is embarrassing that the Gophers struggle with this as much as they do.

Not sure if the Gophers are so frustrated with Tubby that they miss Clem, but we are getting close.

Not sure if the Gophers are so frustrated with Tubby that they miss Clem, but we are getting close.

3:12 – Gophers 25 Gators 39

@krewmom – “I hope they can pass the “wake up juice” to the #Gophers!”

Whoa, whoa, whoa @krewmom. We already are celebrating a Final Four that did not happen, thanks Clem, not sure we want to have to take down our “Round of 32″ banner from this year because of PEDs.

All kidding aside, a little energy from someone not named Hollins would be nice. Though, at this point, even Tubby looks to have checked out of this game. Body language on the Gophers’ sideline looks like someone died. What was that, this team murdered its fan base’s hope and expectations for this year and potentially years to come…aaaahhhh…that explains it.

Half – Gophers 27 Gators 48

@GophersSports – “Back to Back National Champs! RT to congratulate @MNWomensHockey on winning the NCAA title! #Gophers”

And that is where we are ending the Tweetbag. That is right, the Gophers women’s hockey team clutched up and ran its winning streak to 49 games. Won its second national championship. Evidently the sports gods could only allow the U to succeed in one sport on this particular Sunday in March.

Sure, Dre Hollins made a run in the 2nd half. He quite literally made a game of it all by his onesy. However, aside from him, the rest of the team was lethargic. And when Dre was not on the floor — he got a 4th foul and Tubby obviously took him out — the lead quickly ballooned to 15+. This move is a perfect example of Tubby not knowing what to do. This was a not a regular season Big 10 game. It is survive and advance. Dre was the ONLY Gopher putting points in the basket. Trust the kid to play with 4 fouls.

Instead, it is another lackadaisical performance from the Gophers. As a result, Tubby will yet again come under fire. There is a decent chance that he gets his walking papers. A lot of Gophers fans would not complain if that happened. The good news is that Shaka’s VCU Rams lost too, so maybe his buddy Norwood will convince Shaka to jump ship. Or perhaps Andy Enfield, coach of the darling of this year’s tourney – Florida Gulf Coast University – is interested in graduating to the Big 10.

Worst case scenario, if Tubby does stick around, next year’s squad (and perhaps the year after) is not going to be good. Sure, Hollinsanity is going to be around, but our inside presence will be nonexistent. And, Tubby has not locked up either of the stud Minnesota recruits — Tyus Jones or Rashad Vaughn.

I was one of the fans who initially loved the Tubby signing, but the romance is over. There have been to many coaching deficiencies. The U needs a change of leadership. Hopefully, this drubbing at the hands of the Gators is enough to convince the U’s brain trust to move forward with that change.

 

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Tweetbag: Gophers v. UCLA Recap

Posted on March 22, 2013 | Leave a comment

Here we go!! The Madness is about to begin for your Minnesota Golden Gophers.

As always, we are using your tweets, as they happen, to tell the game recap. Y’all are more interesting than the standard recap anywhoo.

Giddyup…

16:27: Gophers 2 UCLA 0

@Christopher_Stewart – “#gophers will beat #ucla 79-68.” 
We got a ways to go to hit that number. Yikes. Gophers 2-run HR (i.e. Hollins’s FTs) the difference in this one early. No flow for either team. UCLA’s Drew travels a sloppy foul from super-senior Trevor Mbakwe. Gophers have shown that, in games where the offense clicks, Rodney and Mbakwe get going early. Both teams are a combined 0-18 to start. Not. Good. 
The zebras in tonight's game were not close to good. We probably would have done better with actual zebras refereeing the game.

The zebras in tonight’s game were not close to good. We probably would have done better with actual zebras refereeing the game.

14:20 – Gophers 4 UCLA 2

@VitrualMurph – “Ok officials in Austin, we get it. You’re on the court too. #gophers”
No joke. UCLA already in the bonus!?!? Check that, double bonus. Hold on, triple bonus. Oh man, these refs are out of control. If the refs are going to call this like a UCLA Alumni Choir pick-up game, this bruising Big 10 squad is in trouble. Plus, and maybe most importantly, Gophers cannot win a race at the charity stripe.
11:42 – Gophers 9 UCLA 9
@ammarden – “Whistle whistle whistle. Basketball or train station? #ncaa #Gophers”
Love the old school reference. Wish it was not true though. This game is so disjointed. Neither team can get into a flow with all the whistles. Both teams are already in the bonus. Again, race at the charity stripe is not a race the Gophers want to be involved in. Gophers shoot 68% from the stripe. UCLA clocks in at nearly 73%.
10:59 – Gophers 12 UCLA 9
@FromTheBarn – “MOmentum!”
Great run from the big fella, Mo Walker. His 4 points off the bench currently account for a 1/3 of the team’s total. What is so infuriating about big Mo is that, if he lost 15 to 20 lbs, he could be a dominant big. Instead, all he has are moments or flashes of good plays. It is never sustained.
8:32 – Gophers 14 UCLA 13
@vikingsrube – “Free throw shooting is going to be the factor #Gophers”
Okay, now I am worried…Mbakwe just air balled the front end of a 1 and 1. Really. Not. Good.
E Squared's relationship with Dre could prove a promising one for Gophers' fans. Particularly if E Squared improves on the defensive end.

E Squared’s relationship with Dre could prove a promising one for Gophers’ fans. Particularly if E Squared improves on the defensive end.

5:24 – Gophers 26 UCLA 19

@andrewlacy52 – “Elliott playing well so far with four point. #Gophers”
Make it six Andrew!! E Squared cans a 20 footer off an Mbakwe double team and then lays in a pretty shot off a strong cut to the rim. The guy has been instant energy all season. He does have his deficiencies on the defensive end, but on offense he is solid.
If he can continue to improve on the defensive end. He actually might be able to replace Mbakwe next year down low. He does not have Mbkawe’s grittiness in the post, but he can definitely be a contributor on that end of the floor.
4:25 – Gophers 33 UCLA 19
@AmeliaRayno – “As a #Gophers beat writer, you learn not to assume to much from a 33-19 lead.”
We have our first Amelia sighting!! Welcome back to the Tweetbag Amelia. Though, what is up with the negativity. I mean, sure, the Gophers are shooting their highest percentage of the year. But, that does not means they are going to start missi…nevermind. You are right. Preparing myself for the worst.
1:32 – Gophers 35 UCLA 22
@goldandgopher – “Here we go. Mbakwe hits a jumper. #Gophers up 35–22. Shabazz has had no impact.”
Mbakwe shows a little versatility with a 15 foot jumper. Then, in true Gophers form, he misses another front end of a 1 and 1. Normally a very solid shooter at the stripe, he has now left 4 points there in the first half. Gophers need to tighten up the way the officials are calling this game. Also, need to buck the trend and start earning their scholarship at the stripe.
Half – Gophers 35 UCLA 25
@redma032 – “Up 10 at half, how are they going to blow this one? #gophers”
Amelia?? Is that you?? Are you ghost tweeting as @redma032??
In true Gophers fan fashion, no one is comfortable. No one knows how to react. In fact, I think if the score were flipped, Gophers fans would feel far more comfortable.
It is not like you can blame us. We have watched the tale of two teams act all season. The one blessing from this game is that at least the good half came first. This means the Gophers have a better chance of hanging on down the stretch.
Gophers need to continue feeding the bigs. Mbakwe, Eliason, and Walker accounted for  19 of the Gophers 35 points. We clearly have an advantage there. Plus, considering UCLA’s foul trouble, every shot should go right at the rim.
18:13 – Gophers 39 UCLA 27
@timegan2 – “RODNEY WILLIAMS!!!”
I appreciate the EMPHASIS Tim. Rodney flexes the potential by hammering home an offensive rebound. Gophers are pounding the rim and are relentless on the glass on both ends. Need to keep that up.
For Gophers fans who wanted to see Coach Saunders leading the maroon and gold, this performance against the Bruins may have assured Tubby's continued reign.

For Gophers fans who wanted to see Coach Saunders leading the maroon and gold, this performance against the Bruins may have assured Tubby’s continued reign.

14:56 – Gophers 44 UCLA 34

@flip_saunders – “#gophers looking good. We are so much quicker and more energized. Next 5 minutes huge! Bury em. Luv changing defenses.”
Coach Saunders…errrrr…I mean, Flip!! Spot on analysis. Changing defenses are causing this young Bruins squad headaches. Though, Gophers need to be careful. UCLA still has not made a run. One is coming. Burying em would be very nice. And now is the time.
13:32 – Gophers 50 UCLA 41
@MINNESOTA_NICE – “I am extremely confused as to why Otto O. has played so many minutes. #Gophers.”
Ouch. Is that handle sarcastic? I mean, I agree with you, but ouch.
11:54 – Gophers 54 UCLA 42
@Border_Rivals – “Terrible call against Oto?!? Guy actally makes a positive play and the refs take it away from him. #ZebrasHaveToGo #LetThemPlay #Gophers
Okay, I could not resist. I feel a little bad piling on Oto, but it really was a great play. Slid in front of David Wear and took a charge. But, these tewible refs decided to call a block. I thought these refs were supposed to be elite.
7:04 – Gophers 69 UCLA 54
@GopherHole – “Wow, Andre Hollins is playing fantastic tonight!! #Gophers”
Fantastic might be an understatement. Dre just canned his 5th 3 PT of the night. He has 24 total and has abused all UCLA defenders who have tried to keep up with him.
His performance tonight is looking a little like the run he put together in the NIT last year. If he can get on that kind of run, this Gophers team can be very dangerous.
 3:28 – Gophers 79 UCLA 56
@kellerjustin – “Good show, #gophers. Equally fortuitous draw, lucky they didn’t face Florida Gulf Coast. UCLA is flat out turrrrrible.”
Love the Sir Charles reference. This one is over. Gophers are up by 20+ and continue to attack. Not even the Tubby-led Gophers could find a way to lose this one.
If Dre plays even in the ball park of how he played today, Florida is going to have its hands full on Sunday.
We will be running a Tweetbag for that game too. Enjoy the Madness.

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In Case Of Emergency, Break Glass, Hire A Packer

Posted on March 16, 2013 | Leave a comment

After the controversial trade of trouble-making wideout Percy Harvin to the Seattle Seachickens, things must have been getting tense at 9520 Viking Drive. Shortly after the Harvin trade, the Vikings brain trust watched available wide receivers Danny Amendola, Wes Welker, Brandon Gibson, and Anquan Boldin sign with or get traded to other teams. Prior to Friday, the Vikings number one wide receiver was Jerome Simpson. Yes, THAT Jerome Simpson. He of 26 receptions on 52 targets fame. Yikes.

On Friday night, the Minnesota Vikings announced that they agreed to terms with former Packer wide receiver, Greg Jennings. Across Minnesota, a collective sigh of relief could be heard.

Jennings is the perfect fit for the Vikings offense. Sure, he is a little old for a wide receiver, he has knocked out 29  birthdays to date, but he still possesses the qualities, great route running and steady hands, that the Vikings receiver corps has been missing since Cris Carter hung up his cleats and started whining talking professionally for ESPN.
Jennings is great route runner with steady hands in the mold of Cris Carter.

Jennings is great route runner with steady hands in the mold of Cris Carter.

And I know what you are thinking, wait a minute, Cris Carter?!? Are you forgetting about Troy Williamso…errrrr…Randy Moss. No. Moss was a great wide receiver, but he just flew down the field and took the ball away from opposing defensive backs with his other-worldly athleticism. Jennings is precise. He uses his route running and physicality to get open 5 to 20 yards down the field. This is perfect.

If Vikings quarterback Christian Ponder showed anything last year, it was a hand cannon for an arm. Just kidding, I wanted to make sure you were still paying attention. What Ponder showed was a propensity for making the right play when the down and distance was between 8 and 10 yards. His passer rating in those instances was nearly 100. Jennings thrives on those kinds of plays.
In 2011, when he was not dealing with a hamstring injury, Jennings caught only 8 passes more than 20 yards down field. That means 59 of his 67 receptions were for less than 20 yards. And, of that 59, 41 were for 10 yards or less. Right in Ponder’s wheelhouse.
The next time Vikings fans see Cheech, he will be lining up across from Chris Cook --- in a Seachicken jersey.

The next time Vikings fans see Cheech, he will be lining up across from Chris Cook — in a Seachicken jersey.

Jennings’s deal is for 5 years and $47.5 million, with $18 million guaranteed. That is $7.5 million less than the Seachickens just guaranteed former Viking Percy Harvin. On its face, the trade of Harvin for a mess of draft picks (2013 1st and 7th – 2014 3rd) and the signing of Jennings for $1.5 million less seems like a great outcome. Was it tense there — sure. Considering the next best free agent wideout was Laurent Robinson (yikes), the stress was merited. But, in case of emergency, the Vikings went with a tried and true approach.

Signing away Packer greats has worked before — think Sharper, Longwell, and, of course, Brett Favre. Getting Jennings make the Vikings a lot better than they were 48 hours ago. However, the current outcome assumes one big thing: that the Vikings could not have found a way to keep both Harvin and Jennings.
The ticket-buying public has no idea what happens behind the scenes with Percy. Because he was traded, we can assume there were some significant issues. Percy being Percy. On the field, he is one of the most talented players in the league. A receiving corps of him, Jennings, and the emerging Kyle Rudolph would have been very hard to stop — no matter how well the quarterback played.
Unfortunately, we will never know what would have happened had the Vikings paid both guys. The cap room was there, but — at least in Harvin’s case — the attitude was not. Moving forward, with the emergency in the rear view, the Vikings need to nail this year’s draft like they did last year. Another wide receiver (please be Keenan Allen) and a some additional help in the secondary would be welcome additions to a team that is at a crossroads. Either take the next step and become a contender or take two steps back to the bottom of the division.

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Tweet Bag — Gophers v. Nebraska

Posted on March 7, 2013 | Leave a comment
Welch was really steady at the point for the Gophers. But, can he continue the solid play against Diet Wisconsin??

Welch was really steady at the point for the Gophers against Penn State. But, can he continue the solid play against Diet Wisconsin??

Well, the Gophers get a chance to continue their winning ways against a slow, unathletic Nebraska squad. Think of them as Diet Wisconsin. Nebraska will use 32 of the available 35 seconds on the shot clock. They will be lucky if they have one dunk all night. And yet, they still might find a way to stay in this thing. Hopefully not.

As always, these are actual tweets from during the game.

20:00: Gophers 0 Nebraska 0
@AmeliaRayno - And as expected, Ingram and Welch are both starting. I can’t really believe Andre Hollins is coming off the bench for this lineup. #Gophers

Amelia!! Good to have you back in the tweet bag.

I am not sure what I think about Tubby’s new line-up. I know they dominated Penn State. But, it was Penn State. I know they beat Michigan. Though, in all fairness, Big Blue was probably looking past the mighty Nitanny Lions to their border rival: Michigan State.

Supposedly, having Welch in the starting line-up allows Dre to play off the ball — definitely his more natural position — and supposedly feed Mbakwe in the post. We will see…

15:14 – Gophers 7 Nebraska 9

@apearson #gophers no longer dead to me. For heavens sake don’t blow it at Nebraska.

This is the sentiment of most fans. After the thrilling win against Indiana and the stomping of Penn State,

9:19 – Gophers 15 Nebraska 15

@tsquared2001 - Nebraska reminds me Englishmen playing basketball for the first time. Hack, hack and hack all the time #Gophers

I am not entirely sure what this means, but both teams look like Englishmen playing basketball. Very slow pace (even for a Big 10 game). We are on pace for just south of a 47 to 43 game. Not sure that style fits the Gophers game. They always do better when they are running and pushing the tempo.

7:52 – Gophers 17 Nebraska 17

@MarkWittig – @icedavis5 I did not know you let football players play basketball at Nebraska. #gophers

To provide a little insight to this comment, Nebraska has a…guy…Andre Almeida, who looks like he could eat Mbakwe (whole) playing center. No joke, this guy looks like he could be Honey Boo Boo’s older brother. Amazingly though, he has incredibly quick feet and soft hands. He is sort of the anti-Mo Walker. Or, because he is Brazillian — and let’s face it, Brazillians are smooth — he might just be the Brazillian Mo Walker.

3:53 – Gophers 19 Nebraska 20

@FromTheBarn - Defense by the #gophers is pretty pathetic tonight.

Why limit it to the defense Jonathan? The offense is not exactly lighting the world on fire. Currently 17 of the 19 points are from Mbakwe, Ingram, and E Squared. That does not paint a rosy picture for the second half. Also, our projected final score is decreasing by the minute.

The one bright spot (and I swear this is not a jinx): Julian Welch. He has actually looked pretty comfortable as the PG. He is making good decisions and forcing the ball down low. Literally seconds after I write this, he bricks two FTs. Never mind.

1:54: Gophers 19 Nebraska 23

@FromTheBarn – lazy basketball by the #gophers, with a side of stupid

I think you are getting warmer Jonathan. Yikes. Gophers look absolutely amateur on offense and defense. About the only thing keeping them in this game, Nebraska’s inability to hit WIDE OPEN jumpers. Cannot continue to rely on that.

0:43: Gophers 21 Nebraska 23

E Squared has been a strong presence in the post for the Gophers the last two games. Maybe losing Mbakwe next year won't cripple the squad...maybe...

E Squared has been a strong presence in the post for the Gophers the last two games. Maybe losing Mbakwe next year won’t cripple the squad…maybe…

@DailyintheBarn – Eliason, who averages 2 points per game, leads the #Gophers with 7. Minn. down 23-21 w/ 43 seconds before half.

If not for E Squared, who is playing well in his homecoming, the Gophers would be in BIG trouble. Eliason has hit open 15 footers and been a presence inside. He is on quite a run now and looks to be a promising player for next year’s squad, IF, and that was intentionally a big if, he can continue to get stronger. Perhaps next year’s team will not be a complete step backwards.
HALF: Gophers 21 Nebraska 23
The Gophers looked pretty lifeless in the first half. This was definitely not the team that beat the number one team in the country. This looks a lot more like the team that lost 8 of 10 going into that Indiana game.
If the tempo does not pick up, the energy does not get cranked to 11, then there is a good chance the Gophers squander away the capital they have added to their resume the last two games. They need to get back to what they do best: pound the ball inside, crash the offensive glass, and play solid man-to-man defense.
20:00 Gophers 21 Nebraska 26
@Border_Rivals – Most telling statistic: Gophers average 8.1 steals a game. In today’s tilt: 0. Yikes. #Gophers #ActiveHandsTimes??
Okay, I had to help out a bit. But seriously?!?! Zero steals??? Brutal. The bigs are playing well. Mbakwe, Ingram, and E Squared looking good. Need the Hollins Cousins to step up and play like they have all season. Right now, completely absent from this game.
16:30: Gophers 22 Nebraska 28
@gopherjon – Not going to win many games if you can’t make free throws…#gophers
Not that Tubby’s teams have ever been great at shooting FTs. Though, this particular Gophers squad loves to get themselves in trouble by regifting points at the charity stripe. Cannot win games like that. In tonight’s game, they are currently connecting on just under 29% of their FTs. #brutal
14:11: Gophers 24 Nebraska 33
@gopher33j – SET A SCREEN!!! #Gophers
Whoa, whoa, whoa, let’s slow down a bit Jon. Maybe we teach them what a screen is AND THEN we ask them to set one. The offense is beyond stagnant and stale, it is entering the rigomortis phase. Just not good. If it were not for the impromptu block party, the Gophers would be down 15+ right now.
11:45: Gophers 26 Nebraska 34
@Amelia Rayno - In his time of need, Tubby has gone back to his original starting five. But #Gophers playing under pressure now.
Amelia!! Don’t jinx them!?! It is bad enough the Gophers are having a hard time figure out how to go about getting the ball through the orange rim, let’s not add to the pressure.
Need to make a mini-run in the next 4 minutes. Something in the range of 8-0 or 12-2. Make it close with 6 to 8 minutes left. They should be able to escape with the win if they can do that.
11:36: Gophers 29 Nebraska 34
@goldengopher – *puts in Journey record* ‘Don’t stop…….believiiiiiiiiing’ #Gophers
I used to love that song. Gophers need two offensive rebounds off missed FTs to score 2 points. I am not belieeeeeeeving.
10:23: Gophers 32 Nebraska 36
@knategiesen – Take over the game Mbakwe! We need you to win this for us!
Could not agree more Knate. Mbakwe grabs ANOTHER offensive rebound off a missed FT and slams home the dunk. Hopefully he has another solid 10 plus minutes left in him tonight.
My fault for the long delay here. This 6 minute gap represented a period of basketball that was so horrendous, like Snooki in the club at 3:30 a.m. horrendous, that I thought it was wrong to capture it in writing. Now back to our regularly scheduled programming…
4:28: Gophers 37 Nebraska 41
@937JohnGaskins #Gophers 6-16 at FT line, down 4, 4:58 left. Couldn’t capitalize on 3-on-1 drive. Credit Gallegos forcing tear drop #Huskers
You know you are in trouble when the Husker fans are starting to believe. Or…excuse me…beliiiiiiiiieve.
Gophers in the double bonus the rest of the way. Normally, you would say get to the rim so you can get to the stripe. Something tells me John and his fellow Husker fans would be all for that strategy.
Trevor did all he could against the 300 pound behemoth. Unfortunately, his guards do not understand how to get him the ball. Not. Good.

Trevor did all he could against the 300 pound behemoth. Unfortunately, his guards do not understand how to get him the ball. Not. Good.

3:15: Gophers 41 Nebraska 43

@sullivanneal – Gophers need to find a way win thus one. #Gophers #BiG
Right on cue, Maverick snags an offensive board off a Hollins air ball and puts in the reverse. Then, after a slow rotation let’s the mini-Cody Zeller, Ubel, exact a little revenge, Dre goes into cold-blooded mode and cans an open 3.
2:20 Gophers 46 Nebraska 46
@goldengopher – Dre Hollins is fouled on the rebound. David Rivers…HE GONE! 2nd player to foul out. #Gophers on the line to tie.
The refs are really bailing out the Gophers. Unfortunately, the Corn Huskers daywalker uses a HUGE screen from Andre Boo Boo to create a three point play. Gophers still down with less than two minutes to go.
0:35: Gophers 46 Nebraska 49
@ratty918 – Can’t wait to see this play Tubby draws up
Have to love the confidence in the coach. Though, turns out to be very prophetic. Gophers end up with a forced shot from Dre (that nearly goes in), though it had nothing to do with Tubby’s play design. At least, I hope it didn’t considering the result.
Somehow, Nebraska gives the Gophers (and Tubby) another chance to scheme a play to tie. The Huskers turned the ball over on the in bounds. However, the iPad-less Tubby comes through again and the Gophers get a 25 footer from Maverick Ahanmisi with 6 seconds left in the game. Not that giving the ball to Hollins (our SG) would have been a better idea considering he had 0 points on the evening.
Overall, another frustrating loss for the Gophers. Even though their ticket to the tournament was stamped a week ago, this loss assures them of a low seed, probably something in the 8 to 11 range. And, if they lose this weekend against a game Purdue squad or in the first round of the Big 10 tournament, it could be much worse.
At this point, I want to beliiiiiiiiiieve, but I am not sure I have the patience.

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Packers Have a Leadership Void

Posted on February 16, 2013 | Leave a comment
Packers lost its defensive leader with Woodson's release.

Packers lose its defensive leader with Woodson’s release.

In a move that should have surprised few, Charles Woodson was released after 7 productive years in green-and-gold. TT’s signature free-agent signing in 2006, Woodson revitalized the Packers defense. He amassed 38 INT and 10 TDs donning the G. And he was named the 2009 NFL Defensive Player of the Year.

Accolades aside, there is little doubt that Woodson’s play declined this past year. He was noticeably a step slower in coverage, resulting in plenty of PI and holding calls that he used to get away with. He could still support the run well. But he was simply a liability in the secondary. With Hayward’s emergence, Woodson became expendable.

Still, the Packers will miss Woodson because of his leadership. He was, without question, the leader of the defense. He primarily led by example, but he took a vocal leadership role in the later years, most noticeably during the 2010 Super Bowl run. Many players credit his halftime speech – following his injury – as inspiring their play. Heck, his post-NFC Championship speech is engraved in the Super Bowl ring.

Woodson’s release follows on the heel of Driver’s retirement. Like Woodson, Driver’s play regressed this past year – to the point he only earned a roster spot by playing on special teams. Also like Woodson, Driver was a leader of the receiver corps. When it was announced he’d return this past season, the young WR’s – many of whom would eventually fight Driver for playing time and a roster spot – spoke highly of Driver’s presence and leadership role.

Now, the Packers enter the 2013 without two of its veteran leaders. Already a young team, the team just got younger. It is imperative to the Packers success for new leaders to step up and take over the void that is left by Woodson and Driver.

Filling Woodson’s leadership role will be tough because the secondary is full of young players. Tramon would be the most obvious replacement because he is the elder statesmen of the group. But he’s not making the calls for adjustments and getting players into position like Woodson did. For this reason, I expect Morgan Burnett to become more assertive in the secondary.

Burnett’s play was not flashy last season. But, he was one of four non-offensive linemen that played every single snap. An amazing accomplishment considering the amount of injuries that plagued last season’s defense. But this reliability creates a sense of comfort in the secondary, knowing that Burnett is always going to be back there getting them in the right position.

Filling Driver’s leadership role will fall to James Jones. With Jennings also leaving the Packers, the WRs will be markedly different next year. And with Jones’ emergence this past season after rediscovering his hands, he becomes the senior member of the group and also its most productive.

This is a perfect role for Jones too. Always quiet in the way he goes about his business. Ascending as he did last year, Jones will provide leadership through example: work hard, stay patient, and trust that Rodgers will get you the ball when you are open.

Burnett and Jones are positioned to assume the leadership positions for their respective position groups. But, the Packers team leadership roles will fall to young stars: Rodgers and Clay. Primed to earn the richest contracts for offensive and defensive players, both Rodgers and Clay must become the team leaders.

Rodgers has already assumed this mantle to a certain extent. But he was also deferential to the veteran leaders. Now, Rodgers is the fourth oldest player on the team. He is the veteran leader.

For Clay, he’s still young and hasn’t appeared to take true leadership role on the team. But, with a new contract comes new responsibilities. He is bound to inspire players with his relentless play and heart. He will be looked to assume a bigger leadership role beyond just setting an example.

It’s a young man’s game. And the Packers are a young team that just got younger by losing Woodson and Driver. Its imperative to next season’s success that new leaders fill the leadership void left by them. Burnett, Jones, Rodgers, and Clay must be ready to fill it.

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Illinois v. Gophers — Realtime Recap — Like You Were There

Posted on February 10, 2013 | Leave a comment

The Gophers need a win tonight. After a decent showing against the Spartans, they need to hold serve at home. That starts with a game against the giant-slaying Fightin’ Illini, who took down #1 Indiana on Thursday in dramatic fashion.

The only twist to tonight’s match-up, Gophers forward Rodney Williams is not playing. He is nursing a sore shoulder and, even though he warmed-up, reports are that he is unlikely to play. Considering his solid play, of late, this is a big loss for the Gophers. He is probably their second or third best perimeter defender, so we will see how that affects the Gophers.

Here we go…

1st Half

19:46: So much for Joe Coleman repeating the outstanding performance he had against these very same Illini. He clangs an 18 footer to start the game. Not a good sign for the Gophers.

16:10: Wait — so Trevor Mbakwe is a horse?!?! You are kidding??? Gophers feed the beast for two buckets. When Mbakwe is engaged early and often, the Gophers are a tough team to beat. While they cannot continue to feed the post with Elliot Eliason, getting Mbakwe touches is definitely the recipe for success.

He positions himself so well on the block and he has great body control. The body control allows him to get to the rim in a variety of different angles. And his massive shoulders make it very difficult for shot blockers to come over the top without fouling him. Put me down for the obvious statement of 2013, as Mbakwe goes, so goes this team. When he is not involved, the offense is pretty stale.

Gophers fans are usually not thrilled to see Maverick racing up the floor. It usually means bad things are happening for the team.

Gophers fans are usually not thrilled to see Maverick racing up the floor. It usually means bad things are happening for the team.

12:32: Maverick Ahanmisi bails out the Gophers with a wild, bank shot as the shot clock expires. Tubby’s mass substitutions now have Maverick, Oto Osieniks, Mo “Cheeseburger” Walker, Andre Ingram, and Austin Hollins on the floor. Not a recipe for offensive success. Maverick has provided a jolt or two for the Gophers in the past, but he is definitely a liability. Hopefully, the starters can catch their breath and get back in after the media timeout.

8:08: Mbakwe continues to take the ball right at the Illini defenders. He definitely has the right attitude. His dominance and Austin Hollins’ shooting has propelled the Gophers to a 10 point lead.

6:34: Austin Hollins continues to carry the Gophers. He has really stepped up for Rodney Williams, who at this point, is definitely a scratch for this evening. If the Gophers could stop recent YouTube sensation Tyler Griffey, they would be up by 20+. Instead, Griffey’s 7 early points are keeping the Illini in the game.

3:14: Let’s assess the situation — the Gophers have spent the last three minutes running the offense through  Mo “Cheeseburger” Walker who, no joke, is a man amongst boys, but who is too big and slow to play college basketball at this level. Furthermore, on the defensive end, his slow rotations left D.J. Richardson open for two consecutive threes. All of sudden, a 12 point lead is down to 4. Oh, and the Cheeseburger just turned the ball over on an offensive charge where the Illini defender literally had enough time to set his feet, tweet the following message – “Man, when is that big boy going to get here?! #Cheeseburger,”  finish a term paper, and then draw the foul. Tubby needs to stop playing Mo until he drops another 15 pounds. Period. I do not care how much he looks like a fat Royce White.

1:16: The Illini continue to rip 3 pointers to stay in the game. Brandon Paul, who has some of the worst looking shots in the conference, drains a pretty 3. For a guy who consistently clangs jump shots, when he makes one, the stroke is outstanding. Osieniks then compounds the issue by getting lazy with the ball, gifting Paul a steal, and then fouling Paul immediately.

Tubby has had little to smile about in the last half dozen Big 10 games. This one is shaping up no differently...

Tubby has had little to smile about in the last half dozen Big 10 games. This one is shaping up no differently…

Half: Gophers close the half like a junior varsity high school team. Hold up, that is an insult to junior varsity high school teams everywhere. It was more like a pick-up squad at a local YMCA (and even they might have played it better).

The Gophers take three terrible shots with the shot clock below 20 seconds. Rather than reset the offense following a pair of offensive rebounds and take the last shot of the half, the Gophers jack up three terrible shots. The Illini finally grab the defensive rebound and rush down to the other end to drain ANOTHER 3 and take a 1 point lead into the half.

This lack of execution falls on Tubby. No excuses. These are EXACTLY the type of plays that have come back to haunt this team.

2nd Half

19:46: Evidently the “…guard that Griffey kid speech fell on deaf hears. He quickly cans a 3 and puts the Illini up 4. The Gophers are struggling to guard an entirely one-dimensional team. This again falls on Tubby. All the Illini can do is hit 3s. That is it.

17:42: The Illini are wisely doubling Mbakwe (turns out we are a bit one-dimensional too). I guess the Illini coach actually tailors his team’s defensive strategy to the other team’s strengths. Crazy bastard. Thankfully, Dre finds a way to split the double off the pick and hit a rolling Mbakwe. Unfortunately, Joe Coleman continues to struggle. More than any one player, his season is the perfect analogy of the team as a whole.

Coleman started off the season hot as a pistol. He really looked like he had taken a jump and was ready to become one of the top players in the conference. That is not an overstatement. After a few solid games in the Big 10 (including a huge game against these very Illini), he has just fallen off the face of the earth. His jump shot was last seen on a milk carton at Washburn Elementary in Minneapolis, MN. His defensive intensity has waned and he consistently fails to rotate on the perimeter. If he ever regains the form from earlier this season, the Gophers will be a tough team to beat. Right now, he is a liability. When Rodney comes back, Eliason needs to get more minutes and Williams needs to slide over and play the 3.

14:06: Speaking of Elliot, Eliason continues to bring a lot of energy and intensity to the squad. However, having him feed the post or cutters on the baseline is like trying to landscape with hand grenades. It might work a few times, but the end results are probably going to be ugly. Coleman cannot handle Elliot’s fastball as he cuts to the rim. Turnover. Gophers should go back to feeding Mbakwe.

10:58: News flash!! The Illini can hit the 3 pointer. No, seriously. That Griffey kid cans another one. Looks like he wants to play the role of hero for another night. Unless Tubby can figure out a way to tighten up that defense, this game is going to end poorly for the home squad.

8:21: We have a Julian Welch sighting! His desperation 3 as the shot clock expires puts the Gophers back up 1. In fact, a little 6-0 run fueled by two 3 pointers has the Illini getting a taste of their own medicine. The Gophers cannot rely on this formula though. Shooting 3s is not a strength. They need to get back to pounding the ball inside and getting to the line. That is what this team does best.

6:49: Why is Andre Ingram getting minutes?!? He mishandles a great pass from Dre and the Gophers turn the ball over again. Still down 1.

The Gophers have been unable to find Hoosier-killer Tyler Griffey. He is looking to add Gophers to his hit list!!

The Gophers have been unable to find Hoosier-killer Tyler Griffey. He is looking to add Gophers to his hit list!!

5:08: Thursday’s hero likes the cape-look. Clearly. Griffey, who was 0-22 prior to the game against the Hoosiers, just canned his 4th 3 pointer of the evening. Evidently, Tubby’s game plan has been that the Gophers will refrain from guarding Griffey and see if he can beat them. Right now, he is annihilating them.

2:38: Austin Hollins, who has played a great game, commits the ultimate hoops no-no: fouling a shooter behind the line. D.J. Richardson hits two out of three and puts the Illini up 3. This is the EXACT kind of play that has killed the Gophers chances of being something more than a one-and-done tournament team.

1:12: The Gophers finally catch a break as a loose rebound bounces off of the Illini. Tubby has to draw up a good play here. Only down 1, the Gophers need to take the lead and put the pressure back on the Illini. Hopefully, something for one of the Hollins cousins.

Instead, Mbakwe panics when the double team comes and throws it into the 4th row. He has not handled the double team well this half. While he is normally a strong passer, the double team has really thrown him for a loop. Tubby should have recognized this and kept the ball in the Hollins’ cousins’ hands.

You just have a sense that the Gophers do not have the moxy to win this game. And just like that, Abrams promptly cans a 3 in Elliot Eliason’s grill. Play is eerily reminiscent of Austin Rivers’ 3 in Tyler Zeller’s face in a match-up between Duke and UNC. And right now, the Gophers are (shockingly) about as good as the struggling Tar Heels.

Final: Illini 57 Gophers 53

Couple of other quick things. Tubby’s offensive strategy, from game-to-game is brutal. As a head coach, the whole blaming the players schtik only lasts so long. The Gophers had a distinct advantage in the post and only rarely were running plays to capitalize on that advantage. Instead, the Gophers tried to kick and slash our way to the rim against a fairly athletic Illini squad. And I get that Rodney was a scratch, but still. Even in the game in Champagne, the Gophers carried the day by dominating in the paint. There was no such prolonged dominance in this game.

On the defensive end, it was the same old story. Poor rotation on the perimeter resulted in numerous opportunities from deep for the Illini. It was no suprise to anyone that the Illini were going to try and shoot the 3. I knew it. The fans knew it. The people watching the red carpet coverage at the Grammy’s even knew it. And yet, the Illini were 11 for 23 from deep. Nearly 50%. That is pitiful.

Until the Gophers coaching staff can figure out how to take advantage of their advantages on the offensive end and utilize their athleticism on the defensive end, this team will be, at best, nothing more than a one-and-done tournament team. At worst, we might as well book our tickets for the NIT right now to try and save on the flights.

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Forget the Billy Goat, the Joe Smith Curse is in Full Effect

Posted on February 6, 2013 | Leave a comment

 

There are a great many curses in all the major sports. The Cubs have the curse of the Billy Goat. The Red Sox had the Curse of the Great Bambino. Birmingham City Football suffered the 100 year curse. Hell, even individual players and competitors have suffered from curses ala the Madden and Taladega Curses.

Move over Billy Goat, Joe Smith is the newest curse on the block!!

Move over Billy Goat, Joe Smith is the newest curse on the block!!

Well, Minnesota Timberwolves’ fans might be in the middle of a brand new curse: the Joe Smith Curse.

For the unfamiliar — or for those who chose to forget — prior to the start of the 2000 season, Wolves GM Kevin McHale signs free agent big man Joe Smith to a contract that involves payments both above and below the table. This was an unbelievably stupid move. Like asking Todd Kincannon to speak at an NAACP rally stupid. How McHale was allowed to remain GM is, to this day, one of sports’ great mysteries. I would love to see the dirt he must have on Wolves owner Glen Taylor. It is either photos of ole Glen doing his best Marv Albert or he has the name and address of Taylor’s Marino-like love child.

Taylor’s TMZ moment aside, the botched Joe Smith signing had an immediate impact (the league takes the Wolves’ 1st round draft pick for the next 5 years) and, even worse, it has been the beginning of a run of bad luck that would make even the most ardent Cubs fan blush.

Since the Joe Smith signing, Wolves fans have suffered the following mini-tragedies:

  1. McHale is allowed to return as GM. This cannot be said enough. He quite literally paid a player under the table, a direct violation of league policy — heck — a direct violation of the how dumb can you be policy, and he returned to his role with the team only a year later. We are not off to a good start.
  2. The Wolves capitalize on having no first round picks for the next two years and draft the great Loren Woods and Marcus Taylor. I would add more, but those picks are pretty self-explanatory. 
  3. Everything changes in 2003, Hall of Fame player and Hall of Infame GM Kevin McHale drafts Ndudi “DooDoo” Ebi. He is the Wolves first 1st round pick since the Smith debacle. He is currently averaging a double-double for S.S. Felice Scandone in something called Serie A.
  4. In 2004, the Wolves finally put together enough talent to support the Big Ticket and, all of sudden, the NBA championship is a very real possibility. After surviving the Kings in a seven game slugfest, the Lakers/NBA/referees dash any hopes the Wolves have of claiming their first NBA championship. In particular, the phantom foul call on Wally Szcerbiak playing “Wally” defense against Kobe.
  5. The following year, despite retaining the same supporting cast, the Wolves fall apart and miss the playoffs for the first time in the KG era. They have not been back since. That team was then dismantled, in part because of Sprew’s desire to feed his family and in part because the chemistry was so off from the year before.
  6. Roy was outstanding for the Blazers (after the Wolves traded him) -- he has played only minutes this season.

    Roy was outstanding for the Blazers (after the Wolves traded him) — he has played only minutes this season.

    To help replenish the talent level around KG, the Wolves draft Brandon Roy. They then inexplicably trade Roy for the great Randy Foy. Roy goes on to a terrific career with the Portland Trail Blazers, playing the role of closer in the 4th Quarter, the exact role the Wolves needed to fill. Foy does his best Troy Hudson-impression, jacking up inopportune 3s with frightening regularity.

  7. Aside from the Roy trade, management also locks up the services of Corey Brewer and Rashad McCants via the draft. Let me just say that again, Corey Brewer and Rashad McCants.
  8. The lack of playoff performances finally force management’s hand. The Kid gets traded to Boston for $.66 on the $1.00. He promptly wins an NBA Championship. The Wolves struggle to break 20 wins because Big Al fails to defend with the same effectiveness that he scores in the low post. Boston’s defense becomes one of the best in the league — anchored by KG.
  9. The Wolves draft one of the best power forwards in the league, Kevin Love, and all of sudden, things are finally looking up. Love averages 20+ points and 12+ rebounds for the first few years in the league.
  10. There is a huge opportunity to turn the corner but David Kahn does his best Kevin McHale, drafting Jonny Flynn (mind you Steph Curry is staring him in the grill and it is not like the Wolves have always needed a shooter), Ricky Rubio (who promptly signs a deal with FC Barcelona), and then approximately 16 other PGs (including Ty Lawson – who is traded to Denver). More misses in this draft than a Craig Ferguson monologue. Just brutal.
  11. Rubio looked like the Spanish Savior --- then the curse took effect. Now he is still trying to find his form following serious knee surgery.

    Rubio looked like the Spanish Savior — then the curse took effect. Now he is still trying to find his form following serious knee surgery.

    La Pistola finally decides he has had enough of Euro hoops and he makes his way across the pond. The Wolves squad is electrified. An annual bottom-feeder is immediately transformed into a contender.

  12. The Black Mamba destroys the Wolves franchise worse than he did the…in…Denv…well, you get the point. Rubio tears an ACL defending Kobe. Wolves fans start to wonder if they should start bathing with the toaster.

All of that brings us to this season.

The Wolves projected starters have played a total of zero games together this season. Butkus. Squat. Nada. So, rather than list all of the injuries — including Love’s freak knuckle push-up calamity — and depress you any further. I will just let that little stat sink in. As soon as you have come to grips with that, it is easy to understand that there is something bigger than all of us going on here. This curse is very real. Here is hoping we exorcise it sooner than later.     

Remember, if you need tickets to watch the Joe Smith Curse in action, skate on over to Ticket King. They have got all your ticket needs covered for local sporting events — especially the Timberwolves.

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Should the Packers Pursue Revis Island?

Posted on January 27, 2013 | Leave a comment
Could Revis don the Green-and-Gold next season? Though possible, it's a luxury the Packers cannot afford.

Could Revis don the Green-and-Gold next season? Though possible, it’s a luxury the Packers cannot afford.

Because the J-E-T-S cannot yield the spotlight, Woody Johnson made it know this week that Darrelle Revis – the undisputed best corner in the league – is available via trade. The 27-year-old CB is coming off an ACL injury, which may be allowing this type of player to hit the market. But, even with an ACL injury, there are sure to be many suitors for his services. So, are the Packers one of those teams?

Given the Packers recent struggles on defense (especially with Tramon’s end of season disappearance), it should be of little surprise the Packers are being linked to these rumors.

Trading for Revis would improve one of the deeper set of defensive backs in the league. Starting Revis, Williams, Shields, and Hayward, with House as the 5th back, would be the envy of all teams. And in a division with Megatron, Brandon Marshall, and (deep breath) Jennings (if he dons the Purple), housing Revis would go a long ways in controlling opposing passing offenses.

And with a secondary that can go five-deep, it should allow the front-seven more time to get after the QB. You can be sure Matthews would greatly appreciate the extra split second to close on another sack.

So, yes, it makes sense on the surface. But, there are several issues with making this type of move that cannot be ignored.

First, Revis is coming off an ACL injury. It’s impossible to predict how he’ll play upon his return. AP’s dominance less than a year removed from a similar injury gives hope. But, it’s not hard to think of players that never regained their prior form following the same injury. It’s a risky proposition, even for a player of Revis’ caliber.

Second, to state it nicely, pulling off this trade isn’t exactly TT’s modus operandi. But recall, TT traded UP in last year’s draft on three occasions. Could TT’s evil step-brother strike again?

In order to swing this deal, multiple picks and potentially a player or two would have to be traded away. Daunting, maybe. But, not impossible. A deal including our first-round selection, a later pick or pick in next year’s draft, and Jennings (after franchising him) might get it done. You could include Tramon instead of Jennings. Or, frankly, offer up a collection of players for them to choose: Jennings, Tramon, Finley, Hawk, etc. The Packers have the assets to pull off the deal. It’s the effect of the deal that raises two issues that simply cannot be overlooked.

Revis will demand a “max” contract – borrowing language from the NBA – when his current contract expires in 2014. In order to sign Revis, you will not be able to retain all three of Rodgers, Clay, and Raji. Obviously, the odd-man out will be Raji. But even still, having three “max” contracts completed so close together will further impact the Packers ability to retain other core cogs of the team: Shields, Jordy, James Jones, Bulaga, etc. The toughest aspect for fans to appreciate is how mega-contracts for Rodgers, Matthews, and Revis impact the teams ability to keep the core together.

Without Raji, the Packers would be unable to stop any running game.

Without Raji, the Packers would be unable to stop any running game.

Assuming Raji would be the odd man out in this situation, losing him would be too costly for this team. There is simply no one on the team like Raji. You lose Raji, you lose any ability to stop the run. Pickett is a good run stuffer, but he’d be the only load up front for opposing offenses to contend with. And he’s advancing in age. So, without the young legs of Raji up-front, a secondary that can blanket anyone might not matter when teams run it down our throat all game long.

The easy solution would be building the line through the draft. But, as we’ve witnessed, it’s not always that easy. Worthy, Neal, and Daniels are all draft picks that define players that can occasionally flash, but are absent for long stretches of the game.

It seems ridiculous to say that Raji is a deciding factor in not making this move. I mean, it’s a no-brainer who’d you rather have on the team when considering them alone. But, given the depth at CB, lack of depth on the D-line, and cap space to pull of this deal, trading for Revis is a luxury the Packers simply cannot afford.

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Like You Were There: Tweet Recap

Posted on January 26, 2013 | Leave a comment

Gophers v. Badgers. Here. We. Go. We are going to use your Tweets, as they happen, to crowdsource this recap. The Gophers are on a disappointing 3 game losing streak. The Badgers are fresh off disappointing losses to Iowa and MSU. Both teams are desparate for a win. Should be a good one.

15:40: @AmeliaRayno nailed it “Well this is fun, let’s just shoot 3-pointers all day.”

Both teams are running completely inept offenses. Both run clock and then jack up a desperation three. Big 10 Basketball ladies and gentlemen!! Amelia, you might be my favorite Strib ink-stained wretch, but this should not surprise you.

13:30: @DanaLitman “I guess these teams are only allowed to score three pointers”

Seriously. Maverick Ahmnisi comes off the bench and hits two big threes. But both teams are showing a serious lack of offense right now. Is Mbakwe afraid of Berggren?? That is the only explanation I have for him not making any plays. This same thing happened in the Northwestern game. Mbakwe dominated for stretches of that game, but he just disappeared when the Gophers needed him most.

11:09: @mtperka “I’m too sober to be watching this team (Gophers) right now”

I agree.

10:53: @alnen32 “Great seal by Trevor. #Gophers need to pount it down low”

Could not agree more. Mbakwe finally realizes he has a day-walker (Brusewitz) on him and goes right at the rim. If the Gophers are going to win, they need to continue feeding the 6th year senior.

8:43: @KVanDeWalker “Did Rodney Williams make the trip to the Kohl Center? Waiting for him to show up”

Oh, he is here. He has already jacked up two TEWIBLE shots, one of which was very early in the shot clock. He just grabbed a big offensive rebound. That gives him a chance to do  something the Gophers have struggled with the last few games: makes free throws. He proceeds to make one of two. !?$?@?!@$?%

5:55: @GophersNow “Nice feed inside from Austin Hollins to Eliason for the basket. Almost thought the big fella woul fumble it  but good catch.”

The funny thing about Eliason is that he played really well in Mbakwe’s absence last year. He looks to be in good shape, maybe even a little bigger than last year. And yet, Tubby has him getting very few minutes. If he continues to play well off the bench, his minutes should increase.

4:34: @mtperka “Wow. Comparing Eliason to Zeller. I have heard it all”

Yeah, let’s not go crazy. For a minute there, I thought PA might have kidnapped the BTN color guy.

2:21: @KeelynP “Someone needs to stay in that Decker kid.”

Could not have missaid it better myself! As always, Gophers fail to close out defensively at the three point line and Dekker makes them pay. Someone needs to be in that kid’s pocket for the rest of the day. I am having flashbacks to the Northwestern game. Skinny white boys knocking down threes have been this teams Achilles heel.

HALF: @zmotalk “Another bad game by the #Gophers yikes time for tuby to go.” @mnglorydays “If Tubby can’t win with this #Gophers team, he absolutely has to go. Find a young guy that can build a program and wants to step up to B10.” @brennentoq “Its tubbys famous “stand around and hope somebody else makes a play” offense.”

Not hard to figure out the sentiment of the fans. And those are just the cleanest of the reactions we saw.

Unfortunately, they are right. If the Gophers cannot figure out how to capitalize on its most talented team in nearly 15 years, there will need to be a change. I know the practices facilities are less than great. And our students have to pretend to go to classes in subzero weather, but those are really poor excuses. Nebraska has a world class practice facility and I do not see them making serious noise on the national stage.

19:18: @AmeliaRayno “Only 5 turnovers for the Gophers in the first half — but they had the same number at Northwestern last game and then blew up in 2nd.”

Come on Amelia!! Cannot be so negativ…never mind.

18:45: @the realstecks “This game is not even worth watching. No scoring, missed dunks, turnovers, etc.”

Uh-oh, we are losing them. Hopefully the team has a little more confidence than the fans and beat writers.

17:54: @JBBauer612 “Only way Mbakwe might get touches is via offense rebounds. #Gophers need to feed that man inside and let him score.”

Stop me if you have heard this one before. Mbakwe is hustling to make plays on the offensive glass. He, quite literally, nearly broke his back. But all to no avail. Gophers trail by 2.

17:04: @DeepDish34 “Oh, now I see why Mo Walker never plays. He has been seriously bad this season for the #Gophers.”

Yeah, Mo has some talent, but he is about 35 pounds too big. He cannot move his feet quickly enough on defense. And he often times looks lost in terms of who he should be guarding. That said, he has shown flashes on the offensive end. I still think Eliason is the better sub for Tubby right now. He has been a spark for this team today.

16:34: @bs_wayne “@GophersNow let’s just be glad Mo is back on the pine.”

Well, Brandon, not sure we need to rub it in.

15:04: @bnmnetp “crazy officiating! #gophers so inconsistent from first to second half.”

I tend to agree. How is it possible that the Gophers are already in the penalty. They have not changed their style of play. Calling a lot of touch fouls, not Big 10 basketball.

13:05: @Aelias1908 “Andre Hollins is in BEAST MODE.”

Dre hits a big three and puts the Gophers up 2. He has 18 on the day and simply cannot be guarded. The refs have ruined the rhythm and flow of this game (definitely plays to the Badgers strength – solid ball control and slow play), but Dre will not be denied.

If he can tap into a little of the NIT magic he had late last year, the Gophers can win this game. Even if no one else on the team knows what to do on either end of the floor.

11:46: @3PtBadger “With a 6-0 run in less than a minute, #Badgers take a 37-33 lead against #Gophers, mid 2nd half!”

Huge problems again finding guys on the perimeter for this Gophers team. Not a good flaw when facing a team like the Badgers who love the three pointer.

7:29: @jsuthHN “We have no offense. Terrible. Slow down, set some shit up, and make sure @TMbakwe32 gets a touch on the block every single trip.”

What is sad, you could replace @TMbakwe32 with @Bergeron40 and this tweet could be a Badgers’ fan. Both teams are doing a tewible job running anything resembling an offense. Gophers cannot get the ball inside where they have an advantage. Badgers are having a difficult time finding their open shooters.

Gophers finally take @jsuthHN’s advice and get it to Mbakwe who gets fouled. He misses one of two. Just. Ugly.

6:01: @peekay622 “Breaking news: 3 points in a minute!”

Thanks for doing the math. Ick!

3:40: @BrandonHarrison “Mbakwe the difference for #Gophers so far in 2H: 8 pts, 10 reb. now. RT @JimPolzinMSJ: Mbakwe with 4 offensive rebounds in the 2nd half.

Mbakwe grabs a big offensive board because Tubby — if you are not going to draw up plays for him, he will get it himself — and then makes a big baby hook over Berggren. Gophers up 2. They have the fans right where they want them. Here comes the FG drought.

2:47: @streethistory “2 for 21 from Austin, Coleman, and Williams. Terrible.”

Not exactly inspiring. Even after an Evans TO, Badger fans have to feel good about their chances to close this thing out. Those numbers are downright scary.

And, right in line with the above stat, Gophers turn the ball over on a shot clock violation. Absolutely no rhythm to this offense.

1:47: @vikingsrube “Box out!”

Okay, so some context. Evans makes his 9th big flub of the 2nd half, missing his first FT. In fact, he only tickles the front of the iron. He then misses his second (hence vikingsrube’s advice: box out). Gophers do box out and draw a foul. Ingram promptly misses the first. The Badgers come back down the floor and tie it up. Was there any doubt?

0:39: @guylindvall “This offense is brutal.”

Quick, a fan of which team Tweeted the above?? I am not sure either. But, since it came shortly after Dre took an ill-advised drive to the hoop. Great acting job by Brush on the charge.

Badgers win on a shot after the shot-clock expires. Gophers didn't deserve it anyways.

Badgers win on a shot after the shot-clock expires. Gophers didn’t deserve it anyways.

0:02: @reporterbw “Already bracing myself for a soul-crushing #Gophers defeat.”

Say no more @reporterbw!! Jim Jackson, Jr. (4 for his last 17) hits a pull-up jumper as Mbakwe flies by to put the Badgers up 2. I would say soul-crushing about does it. Even more so considering the replay looks like Jackson did not get the ball off in time. Only a Minnesota sports team could find a way to lose like this. One last chance.
0:01: @droege32 “Wisconsin is lucky it was a foul… Mbakwe made the shot…”

Let’s explain this. So, the ball is inbounded and Mbakwe makes a great play catching it with one hand, turning, and nailing the fadeaway that would have tied the game.

Instead, as he is doing that, he is fouled by Brusewitz. Wisconsin is initially angry. But wait, Mbakwe is hurt. He cannot shoot the FTs. That means the Badgers get to pick who gets to shoot the FTs. Not good for Gophers fans. Mbakwe makes the shot that would tie it, and instead, the Gophers get to watch Rodney Williams try to make two FTs.

He makes the first.

He misses the second. Your season in a nutshell.

 

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One Man’s Fake Dead Girlfriend, Is Another Man’s Steal Of The Draft

Posted on January 20, 2013 | Leave a comment

2013′s strangest story gets weirder each and every day. I mean, who expected Octomom to hop back on the stripper pole?? Okay, sad jokes aside, the story of this very new year has been that of confused/disgraced Notre Dame linebacker Manti Te’o. Te’o's story played out this week like something out of the Theater of the Absurd. He did not know this was a hoax? Hang on, he was not complicit? This kid was supposed to be attending classes at one of the preeminent universities in this country and yet he was duped into a 2 year online relationship with a girl who, let’s face it, was a 7 out of 10 on a good day!? Either he is a hopeless romantic, gay, in on the hoax, or some combination of those three.

But here is the thing: it does not matter. I do not care. Neither should any self-respecting Vikings or Packers fan.

Te'o got embarrassed in a the national championship and now we know why...

Te’o got embarrassed in a the national championship and now we know why…

Manti Te’o is clearly a bit of a hunyuck. But he is also one helluva a football player. Sure, he got lit up like Chevy Chase’s Christmas Vacation house in the national championship game, but do you think he had other things on his mind? According to approximately 326,789 online reports, Te’o's life had been falling apart (behind the Golden Dome) for about three weeks. Anytime you are spending a lot of QT with the school athletic director – Jack Swarbrick – your stress level is likely a bit higher than normal. Might even affect your play a little, especially against a squad like Alabama.

So, giving Te’o a mulligan for the Alabama game, what do we know? Te’o averaged 125 tackles, including 61 solo numbers, during the last three years. The guy has been a tackling machine. This year, he has added some play-making ability in the secondary, nabbing 7 INTs.

In terms of off-season hardware, the guy pretty much cleaned house. In fact, Te’o is the most decorated defensive player in college football history. His awards list includes: IMPACT Player of the Year Lott Trophy, the Maxwell Award, the Chuck Bednarik Award, the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, the Butkus Award, the Lombardi Award, and the Walter Camp Award. Of course, he also took 2nd in the Heisman Trophy race.

Now, did the fact that Te’o's fake girlfriend supposedly died only 6 hours after his grandma (or was it before – a cloudy timeline is a bit suspecting to say the least) give him a bit more national noteriety? Undoubtedly. Did his star shine a bit brighter? Assuredly. But he still had to perform on Saturdays. And perform he did.

Prior to Te’o's world falling apart in spectacular fashion, he was ranked as the top linebacker in the country and, according to most draftniks, a guaranteed Top 10 pick. Now? Who knows? And that is where we come in.

Both the Vikings and Packers could use an improvement at middle linebacker. The Vikings have Jasper Brinkley, who had a decent season, but Te’o is the type of talent that could carry a franchise for the next 10 years. Now there could be some concern that Te’o could not adapt to the Vikings’ Cover 2 because in that system, the middle linebacker has to be able to get to the deep seam to help the safeties. And while Te’o has shown flashes of strong ball skills, particularly this season, he does not have break away speed. All of that said, I am not too worried, Te’o would still be a major upgrade for the Vikings and he would represent a superb value at the 23rd overall spot.

Hawk's minutes this year were way too high and Te'o would be a huge upgrade.

Hawk’s minutes this year were way too high and Te’o would be a huge upgrade.

The Packers could use a middle linebacker even more considering the corpse of A.J. Hawk logged serious minutes for the Green and Gold this year. For that reason alone, you know – having a pulse – Te’o would represent a significant upgrade in Dom Capers’s system.

Talent upgrade aside, the Packers might actually be a better fit for Te’o considering that he ran a 3-4 at Notre Dame. That system would not require him to get as deep on his pass drops and he would have the luxury of playing with a near Pro Bowler at nose tackle – B.J. Raji. Linebackers in a 3-4 are only as good as their nose tackle. And having Raji occupy interior linemen would give Te’o space to do what he does best: make tackles. He and Bishop would finally give the Packers top-end talents at ILB.

The Packers also have a veteran squad that could easily address/diffuse any lingering issues with Te’o's imaginary girlfriend. This is perhaps more important than anything else considering how poorly Te’o played in the national championship game with everything on his mind.

Of course, this is all speculation. Over the next several months, we will learn – hopefully – the truth behind this hoax. And the truth will be the big determining factor into how much this hoax will affect Te’o's draft stock, if at all. But for now, the imaginary 7 out of 10, Lennay Kakua, could be a very real blessing in disguise for the Vikings or Packers come draft day.

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