I’m finally recovering from my 4 day bender. Unfortunately for my cool rating, none of the 4 days involved drinking, just march madness. I didn’t have a single drink during any of the games, yet I’ve felt viciously hung over the last two days.* This is mainly because I work the graveyard shift and averaged about 3 ½ hours of sleep from Thursday to Sunday. Anyhow, this may have been the best opening weekend ever, a whole lot of sh*t went down, so no more fluff, let’s go straight into a full (sort of) review of the weekend that was.
What We Learned:
- The Big 10 Sucks: Yes I too was suckered in by this horrifically overrated conference. I had Iowa going to the finals, Ohio and Michigan State going to the Elite 8, ect. ect. But as it turned out, the league just sucked, badly. I’m not sure how I feel about the B10’s flame out. As a former visiter to the Midwest I love it because 9 out of10 Midwesterners are overly cocky, so I enjoy the thought of them just stewing in the collective shellacking their conference took. And every year I pick Iowa to go far in the tournament and they also lose in the 1st weekend. Honestly it’s becoming one of my favorite march traditions. But mark my words, next time I don’t pick Iowa to go far there going to go to the Final Four. The B10’s collapse did kill my bracket, but that’s the beauty of march.
- I’m part genius, part idiot, more so of the latter: Despite Al Skinner’s best efforts, his uber talented BC team escape a first round scare and big Al finally made it to his first Sweet 16. Other then putting to much stock in the Big Ten I feel pretty good about my bracket. I may have put too many cinderellas in, or just chose the wrong ones. I just wish I had gone with gut. In the first bracket I filled out I got 12 of 16 of Sweet 16 right and have all my final four picks still alive. To quote Frank Black “Stupid Me.”
- Parity: Parity maybe the best thing to happen to college basketball since March Madness. On the other hand it makes for a sh*tty NFL.
- Brandon Roy might be the best player in college. As that Washington team has no right to be still playing. In all honesty it wouldn’t shock me to see Roy actually making it a game against the other Huskies.
- If Gus Johnson does any of the regional semifinal games CBS may need to use a horse tranquilizer to calm him down before the games. (For more of what I’m talking about see quote of the week.)
- If George Washington could make any shot they might still be playing: I got only 3 hours of sleep so I could watch George Washington attempt to upset Duke. What I was so was what I assume had to be the only single digit field goal percentage in NCAA history. All joking aside GW missed at least 24 shots that I’ve seen 5 year-olds with autism hit. Just an awful showing by the Colonials.**
- Give it up for Coach K and Duke: Who keep find new ways to make people hate them. Seriously I’m impressed. And, incidently, I also want to buy a Chevy.
- Illinois Fans are insane: What can I say, Karma/Revenge is a bitch, and a dish best served cold. Illini fans are whining to anyone who will listen that they got jobbed by the refs, as evidenced by Washington’s 38-19 free throw shooting edge. Instead of chuckling at the irony of all this I’ll instead point out why Washington shot more free throws. Illinois entire offense, outside of Augustine, is completely based on jump shooting, where as 85% of Washington’s is based on slashing. Based on pure logic the Huskies are going to go to line far more often then the Illini. It just goes to show that only bad things happen when your teams mascot is degrading an Indian tribe.
- I was going to have a best games section, but I could think of ten amazing ones of the top of my head, and knew that it would be way too much work.
- Gonzaga can win with out Adam Morrison playing his best: If I’m Ben Howland watching a tape of this game I’m probably shitting myself as I realize just how good Gonzaga is as a team this year. Also the fact that after a bad game Morrison is bound to go off against the Bruins.
And now on to next weekend:
- First let me say that next weekend will be worse then this last one, and not just because my teams out (more on this later). At least half of the 20 games that are played this weekend are going to have to go down to the final minute in order to compare with last weekend. So don’t get your hopes up.
- My “new” final four: With only three of my FF picks left, I’m going with my original gut shot bracket choices: Duke, UCLA, ‘NOVA and UCONN.
Fearless Predictions: UCLA-Gonzaga will be the best game of the tourney, whoever wins is going to the final four. Despite the huge advantage in talent and atletism, Texas will fall to West Virginia. West Virginia will get a big lead on Duke before blowing the game by going cold from outside.
-Who to Root For: Of course the underdogs, West Virginia: The only team left that can use the always fun white-out***, Pac-10/West Coast Teams: Like the Underdogs, this ones obvious and Villinova: After they got bumped out last year on the worst traveling call ever, they could use a run to the final four this year, in fact I think the NCAA owes it to them, as evidenced by the hardest teams in their bracket were an under achieving U of A team and two teams coached by Al Skinner and Billy Donovan.
Quote of the Week:
“How did he find the courage to take that shot?” – Gus Johnson after Chris Lofton’s desperation shot went in with .4 seconds left ot give his team a two point lead.
First off all Gus, you have a silly first name and your last name is a euphemism for a penis. Secondly, there’s nothing courageous about playing sports, absolutely nothing. Gutsy maybe, but nothing courageous. And he took the shot because there was only 3 seconds left so he had to shoot, so I’m not even sure if his shot was gutsy, it was just necessary.
The Obligatory Arizona Section:
What can I say, it sure feels good to have our dignity back. For a program of Arizona’s stature you almost never get moral victory, but the U of A did on Sunday. They played one of the top 3 teams in the country and it took them to the final seconds. All in all just a great game by the Cats, who went out guns blazing, which was about all you could ask for with this team. My only problems were that it took the Cats 31 games to decide to finally start listening to Lute and that if you replace Daniel Dillion’s (and most of C-Rod’s) minutes with Jawann McClean this is a final four team, at least with the way they were playing at the end of the season. Anyhow, I was actually proud of the effort the U of A showed this weekend and next year is looking real bright for us. Speaking of next year, in this same space next week I’ll give you a small preview of Arizona’s 06-07 season. Woot.
And now before we finish here’s a few random tidbits and thoughts I gathered over the weekend:
- Best Commercials: Big Buckin’ Chicken (deserves, and may get, it’s own post.), Burger King’s Whopper Jr.: Great idea, pretty funny execution. Props to BK for putting out some of the funniest commercials out there. In fact I may actually dedicate a whole post to Bk’s new commercials. Army: The with the father in son sitting on the porch, which has this dialogue in it:
Father: You’re a changed man.
Son: How do you figure that?
Father: When you got off that train you did two things you’ve never done before, least not at the same time. You shook my hand and you looked me right in the eye. Where’d you learn that?
Cut to army logo.
Kills me every time. Ignore the fact that the father and son don’t hug after he returns from at least a month long absence from boot camp, or the fact that he was clearly beating his son before he left, and this is still a great, moving commercial. Well done Army, well done.
- Worst Commercials: Applebees Giligan’s Island song: I’d rather have colon cancer**** then have to see this commercial again. Just gawd awful. Honestly who’s the f*ck-wit he green lighted this thing? Cingular: The commercial where the Asian guy is continually sh*tting on the white guy. Put race aside for a second and ask yourself this, why is the white guy still friends with the Asian guy? First off he’s Asian, a huge minus in my book. And secondly the only dialogue they have is based on the Asian guy ripping the white guy for not having a cell phone. If I was the white guy in this commercial I’d punch the other guy in the face, say something to the effect of “Who’s the bitch now?” or “B*tch you don’t know who the f*ck I am!”, stump him a few times and then walk away and never speak to him again. Man I hate that commercial.
- Despite the fact the album was boring an uninspired, when you’re listening to the radio for an entire 8 hour shift and Fix You by Coldplay comes on, it sounds like salvation.
- One last thing, Big Love, the new HBO show, is awesome. Just wanted to get on the bandwagon before everyone else did. Woot.
Tuesday, March 21, 2006
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
NCAA Tournament Manifesto V.2: The Final Countdown
Yes, it’s finally here. My March Madness Manifesto that will truly show my full genius. Sit back relax, and let me do all the work. What follows are a a couple of rules and guidelines and helpful tips/games so that you get the full March Madness experience. Also today I’ll breakdown the Brackets. Enjoy.
Guidelines and Other Miscellaneous Things:
A 12 seed will beat a 5 seed: happens every year, just trust me on this. My pick this year is Texas A&M over Syracuse. Other options include Washington getting upended by Utah State, which plays a similar style to Wazzu. Also on any given night Pitt can struggle to get 20 points, so they might also be a good pick.
A Team(s) that made a deep run in last years tourney,and returns most of it’s players, will flop this year: West Virginia fits the bill, but I personally want nothing to do with them. Nothing they do would surprise me. They could either win it all or loose in the first round and I wouldn’t be shocked either way. Outside of them no other team really fits this one.
At least on of your Final Four picks will not make it past the first weekend: Maybe I’m just bad at picking teams, but this almost always happens to me.
One potential match up will get over hyped by the media so much that you can be certain it won’t happen: Put your money this year on Duke-Texas rematch in the regional final. I don’t think either of these teams will make it that far, and I’d bet my life one of them doesn’t.*
One white guard will shoot lights out and garner comparisons to Larry Bird, Jimmy Chitwood and Bryce Drew: You have to play for a mid-major for this rule to apply, so thankfully, J.J Redick is out. My picks this year are: John Goldsberry (UNC- Wilmington), Jaycee Carroll (Utah State)**, Ben Jacobson (Northern Iowa) and David Bagga (Arizona) [Yes it’s a joke, but a boy’s gotta dream.]
You’ll talk yourself into a team that you shouldn’t: For me it seems like every year this team is Iowa, who I have going to the final four this year. Most people have this problem with Gonzaga as well. I've also talked myself into UW-Milwaukee, South Alabama and Wichita State.
You’ll make a list of things you’d give up to be the 12th Man on a Cinderella team: All joking aside this is all I want in my life. You get to lock arms on the bench during close games, you to hold everyone back from rushing the court after your team hits a huge shot and you get to over react to every made basket and get some TV time in the process. Just way to much fun is being had by these guys, oh and they also get to rush the court after the game is over. Man that’s the life. My list includes my Television, Ipod, My autographed Lisa Loeb album and one or both of my kidneys.
Beware of the team that made a deep run in their conference tourney, they may have used up all their luck: West Virginia blew this rule to shit last year, but I see it staying true this year. That means so long to Syracuse, Xavier and Kansas (all though there going home for another reason, which I’ll reveal later.)
The SEC, minus Kentucky, is always way overrated: One tweak to this rule this year is that Kentucky is also horrible. I would personally be shocked if more then one SEC team makes it to the 2nd week.
If you’re in Duke’s bracket rejoice: You rejoice because that means that Duke is the only other good team in your bracket. Seriously though, the Dukies get spoon fed an easy bracket every year, and this year is no exception. The only other scary teams are West Virginia and Iowa, both of whom I’m probably overrating.
A couple of top seeds will be pick to fail by must everyone, expect these teams to make it at least to the Sweet 16: This might actually hold up this year. Everyone will be picking Tennessee and Ohio State to get knocked off early. I agree with the Tennessee, and Ohio State has two tough draws in the second round, so we’ll see.
Cinderella teams usually loose steam after the first weekend: I’m not sure why this is, but it always happens. It could be because teams have more time to scout them and they won’t take them for granted. But if you have a double digit team or a high single digit team making it to the 2nd weekend, don’t expect them to make it to the elite eight.
Possible Drinking Games: Take a shot or drink for every Ben Howland time out (although this could very easily kill you), same for everytime the cameras pan to Ashley Judd at during a Kentucky game***, same for every time Billy Packer and/or Dick Vitale verbally felates Duke, every time and announcer incorrectly calls J.J. Redick one of the best shooters of all-time (c’mon the guy only shoots 43% from the 3pt line, at the college level that’s not very good. I mean Steve Kerr shot 57% from beyond the arc.).
If Billy Donovan, Al Skinner or Bill Self is your teams coach, you’re screwed: If one of these men is coaching your team soak in as much of the first weekend as you can, because you ain’t seeing the second weekend. On paper all of these teams are too talented to not get to at least the sweet 16, especially Kansas and BC. But never underestimate the power of these men’s horrific tourney coaching. One add on to this rule is that despite his teams talent, Rick Barnes will never coach his teams to their full potential. Also it should be noted that if Mike Miller is on your team then they can carry you even with these coaches and make you look like a genius.
Commercials/Promos: One of the most enjoyable subplots of March Madness is all the bad promos for CBS shows that won’t last a month. There will also be some great new
commercials as well. Like last years Diet Coke/Paul Oakenfold master piece, but I doubt will see anything that good this year.
Well that’s enough of that. Now let’s break down the brackets.
Oakland: The West Region
Tough Outs a.ka. the team(s) no one wants to play: These are the teams that won’t necessarially win, but they’re going to scare the bejesus out of people. In this region my picks are Bucknell, Indiana and the winner of the Marquette-Alabama game.
Upset Specials: I may not have any of these on my bracket, but these are the most likely upsets in my opinion. Anyone beating Kansas in the first two rounds. Bucknell over Memphis, Indiana over Gonzaga.
Sleeper Teams: These are teams that I could see making a deep run, maybe even making the final four. In this region my sleeper picks are Indiana and Pitt.
Best Player(s): Adam Morrison, SF Gonzaga. Morrison is one of the best scorers I’ve ever seen at the college level. In my mind he’s been the best player in America this year. While his defense is a liability and he doesn’t rebound enough, his scoring and clutchness more then make up for his short comings. Unfortunately for Morrison and Co. they’re going to lose to UCLA in the Sweet 16. In fact I would have Gonzaga losing in earlier, except I believe Morrison can carry them into the 2nd round.
Best Games (Potentially): UCLA-Gonzaga: This would be a great game. The best way to beat Gonzaga is to let Adam Morrison get his and just stop everyone else. But Ben Howland maybe to arrogant to let this happen because of how great of a defensive coach he is. This game is also for the best team on the west coast title. UCLA-Pitt: Ben Howland’s new team versus his old team and former assistant. Always a fun and over played story line. Indiana-Gonzaga: Because Mike Davis is resigning at the end of the tournament, every Indiana game is most see. Also the Hoosiers have the talent and style of play that could drive Gonzaga nuts.
Fearless Prediction(s): Every announcer will over-hype/over-praise Jordan Farmar, while being unaware that Aaron Affalo is actually the key to any success UCLA might have. Also that Memphis’s tournament exit will be mainly self ionflicted.
Sweet 16 Teams: Memphis, Pitt, Gonzaga and UCLA.
Bracket Winner: UCLA. The Bruins are one of the best defense teams in the nation. They play Big East Style defense and west coast style offense. They match up well with just about every team in this bracket. Sure Memphis beat them earlier in the year, but Memphis peaked in December, no one knows that yet because they haven’t played anybody good since then. The Bruins are peaking now and I believe that they should win this division.
Atlanta: Southeast Region
Tough Outs a.ka. the team(s) no one wants to play: George Washington (especially if Pops Mensah-Bonsu plays.), UNC-Wilmington, Iona, Southern Illinois and UCBerkley (otherwise known as Cal.)
Upset Specials: Again, I may not have them in my bracket, but here’s the most likely of the upsets in this region. Texas A&M over Syracuse (trust me, ‘Cuse is dunzo.), Iona over LSU, West Virginia over everyone, Cal over Texas.
Sleeper Teams: George Washington (especially if Pops Mensah-Bonsu plays.), West Virginia(if they can actually be considered that), California, Iona.
Best Player(s): J.J. Redick, Duke. With Pops Mensah-Bonsu likely out for the tournament, this honor has to go to the overrated Redick. While I’m tempted to give in to Leon Powe, Redick has almost earned the non-stop praise he’s received this year. He’s become a great scorer and leader, although he’s still overrated as a shooter.
Best Games (Potentially): West Virginia –Iowa: Could be the game of the tournament. These teams match up really well and it will be one of the few times I’m not rooting for an upset in the 1st round because I want to see this game that badly. Duke-GW: Only if Pops Nebsah-Bonsu plays.
Fearless Prediction(s): The winner of the West Virginia –Iowa 2nd round match up is going to the Final Four. Duke will get at least one controversial late game call that won’t decide the game, but it will definitely push it in their favor.
Sweet 16 Teams: Duke, LSU, Iowa, Texas. (Say it with me now: BORING!)
Bracket Winner: Iowa. Maybe it’s because I dislike Duke, or I’m just smart enough to see that they’re falling apart, but I don’t see them getting out of this region. Iowa is the second best team in this region, followed closely by their second round opponent West Virginia. All things considered Duke should make it out of this region, but I think Iowa has the right combination of shooting, defense and senior leadership to get to the finals.
Minneapolis: The Midwest Region
Tough Outs a.ka. the team(s) no one wants to play: Arizona(hey stfu, seriously stop laughing.), Nevada, UW-Milwaukee, Northern Iowa and Georgetown.
Upset Specials: South Alabama over Florida (The Gators always choke, and South Alabama is actually a pretty good team, I feel confident about this one.), UW-Milwaukee, Arizona over Villanova (honestly now it could happen. Right? Right?), Georgetown over Ohio State.
Sleeper Teams: Georgetown, Neveda, Arizona (Ok I’ll admit it, I’m mildly insane and a huge homer.) and South Alabama.
Best Player(s): Nick Fazekas, Nevada. The 6-11 forward plays mostly like a 2-guard. He’s drawn compasions to Dirk Nowitski, but he has a better back to the basket game and he’s a better defender. Fazekas has a great all-around game.
Best Games (Potentially): Boston College-Nevada: The match-up of two of the best forwards in the nation between BC’s Jared Dudley and Fazekas. Villanova-Ohio State: Both teams play 4 guard oriented offenses. The both match up well with each other, could be a great game.
Fearless Prediction(s): Mustafa Shakur’s homecoming will last two games. Too much attention will be paid to Allen Ray’s injured eye.
Sweet 16 Teams: Villanova, Nevada, Ohio State and South Alabama
Bracket Winner: Villanova: Even with out Allen Ray at full strength the Wildcats should take this region. It all comes down to guard play in the tournament and Villanova’s quartet of guards, led by Randy Foye will be a tough match up for everyone. Even if they go cold one night I think Ohio State and BC (although we all know the Eagles are going to choke) are the only teams that can beat them in this bracket.
Washington D.C.: The East Region
Tough Outs a.ka. the team(s) no one wants to play: Brandon Roy, er, I mean Washington, Murray State and Utah State.
Upset Specials: Michigan State over UNC, Wichita State over Tennessee, Utah State over Washington (Read: Brandon Roy)
Sleeper Teams: Brandon Roy, Michigan State (even though everyone expects them to make a deep run), Wichita State and Utah State.
Best Player(s): Dee Brown, Illinois. Brandon Roy, Washington. Tyler Hansbrough, UNC. Marcus Williams, UCONN. Brown is arguable the best floor leader in the country, and despite his poor shooting percentage is the main reason Illinois is still competitive this year. Roy just might be the best scorer in the country. Hansbrough is the countries best Freshman and is easily a top 5 post player in college. Rudy Gay gets all the pup for UCONN, but Marcus Williams, the countries best play maker, is the difference maker for the Huskies.
Best Games (Potentially): UNC-Michigan State: Another potential game of the tournament that will be played in the second round. UNC-MSU winner-UCONN: While UCONN should win this bracket, whomever wins the 2nd round game between the Tarheels and the Spartans will give them a great game.
Fearless Prediction(s): Soon as Dee Brown goes cold the Illini are done. Tennessee will flame out before the sweet 16.
Sweet 16 Teams: UCONN, Washington, Michigan State and Wichita State.
Bracket Winner: UCONN. They have the most talent in the country and a great coach. They can go 9 deep and felon turned PG Marcus Williams just might be the best floor generals in the country
My Final Four & Champion:
UCONN-Villinova: This is the real championship game.
Iowa-UCLA: Two great defense teams slugging it out what will be a very boring game by comparison to it’s counterpart.
Championship: UCONN over Iowa: This game will be close for about 25-30 minutes before UCONN’s athleticism and talent take over.
Well writing all of this has taken a lot out of me. I barely have the strength left to wrap this all up. Just enjoy the next three weeks, they’re the best in sports.
Until We Meet Again
*Please don’t hold me to that.
** Speaking of Utah State, nothing can prepare for how scaring looking there 27 year-old, formerly accused of rape point guard David Pak is. Trust me, you don’t want small children anywhere near the television when Utah State is playing.*** Sorry about that, but it’s industry standard to have at least one Ashley Judd per. March Madness write up. It should also be noted that I don’t condone underage drinking of any kind.
Guidelines and Other Miscellaneous Things:
A 12 seed will beat a 5 seed: happens every year, just trust me on this. My pick this year is Texas A&M over Syracuse. Other options include Washington getting upended by Utah State, which plays a similar style to Wazzu. Also on any given night Pitt can struggle to get 20 points, so they might also be a good pick.
A Team(s) that made a deep run in last years tourney,and returns most of it’s players, will flop this year: West Virginia fits the bill, but I personally want nothing to do with them. Nothing they do would surprise me. They could either win it all or loose in the first round and I wouldn’t be shocked either way. Outside of them no other team really fits this one.
At least on of your Final Four picks will not make it past the first weekend: Maybe I’m just bad at picking teams, but this almost always happens to me.
One potential match up will get over hyped by the media so much that you can be certain it won’t happen: Put your money this year on Duke-Texas rematch in the regional final. I don’t think either of these teams will make it that far, and I’d bet my life one of them doesn’t.*
One white guard will shoot lights out and garner comparisons to Larry Bird, Jimmy Chitwood and Bryce Drew: You have to play for a mid-major for this rule to apply, so thankfully, J.J Redick is out. My picks this year are: John Goldsberry (UNC- Wilmington), Jaycee Carroll (Utah State)**, Ben Jacobson (Northern Iowa) and David Bagga (Arizona) [Yes it’s a joke, but a boy’s gotta dream.]
You’ll talk yourself into a team that you shouldn’t: For me it seems like every year this team is Iowa, who I have going to the final four this year. Most people have this problem with Gonzaga as well. I've also talked myself into UW-Milwaukee, South Alabama and Wichita State.
You’ll make a list of things you’d give up to be the 12th Man on a Cinderella team: All joking aside this is all I want in my life. You get to lock arms on the bench during close games, you to hold everyone back from rushing the court after your team hits a huge shot and you get to over react to every made basket and get some TV time in the process. Just way to much fun is being had by these guys, oh and they also get to rush the court after the game is over. Man that’s the life. My list includes my Television, Ipod, My autographed Lisa Loeb album and one or both of my kidneys.
Beware of the team that made a deep run in their conference tourney, they may have used up all their luck: West Virginia blew this rule to shit last year, but I see it staying true this year. That means so long to Syracuse, Xavier and Kansas (all though there going home for another reason, which I’ll reveal later.)
The SEC, minus Kentucky, is always way overrated: One tweak to this rule this year is that Kentucky is also horrible. I would personally be shocked if more then one SEC team makes it to the 2nd week.
If you’re in Duke’s bracket rejoice: You rejoice because that means that Duke is the only other good team in your bracket. Seriously though, the Dukies get spoon fed an easy bracket every year, and this year is no exception. The only other scary teams are West Virginia and Iowa, both of whom I’m probably overrating.
A couple of top seeds will be pick to fail by must everyone, expect these teams to make it at least to the Sweet 16: This might actually hold up this year. Everyone will be picking Tennessee and Ohio State to get knocked off early. I agree with the Tennessee, and Ohio State has two tough draws in the second round, so we’ll see.
Cinderella teams usually loose steam after the first weekend: I’m not sure why this is, but it always happens. It could be because teams have more time to scout them and they won’t take them for granted. But if you have a double digit team or a high single digit team making it to the 2nd weekend, don’t expect them to make it to the elite eight.
Possible Drinking Games: Take a shot or drink for every Ben Howland time out (although this could very easily kill you), same for everytime the cameras pan to Ashley Judd at during a Kentucky game***, same for every time Billy Packer and/or Dick Vitale verbally felates Duke, every time and announcer incorrectly calls J.J. Redick one of the best shooters of all-time (c’mon the guy only shoots 43% from the 3pt line, at the college level that’s not very good. I mean Steve Kerr shot 57% from beyond the arc.).
If Billy Donovan, Al Skinner or Bill Self is your teams coach, you’re screwed: If one of these men is coaching your team soak in as much of the first weekend as you can, because you ain’t seeing the second weekend. On paper all of these teams are too talented to not get to at least the sweet 16, especially Kansas and BC. But never underestimate the power of these men’s horrific tourney coaching. One add on to this rule is that despite his teams talent, Rick Barnes will never coach his teams to their full potential. Also it should be noted that if Mike Miller is on your team then they can carry you even with these coaches and make you look like a genius.
Commercials/Promos: One of the most enjoyable subplots of March Madness is all the bad promos for CBS shows that won’t last a month. There will also be some great new
commercials as well. Like last years Diet Coke/Paul Oakenfold master piece, but I doubt will see anything that good this year.
Well that’s enough of that. Now let’s break down the brackets.
Oakland: The West Region
Tough Outs a.ka. the team(s) no one wants to play: These are the teams that won’t necessarially win, but they’re going to scare the bejesus out of people. In this region my picks are Bucknell, Indiana and the winner of the Marquette-Alabama game.
Upset Specials: I may not have any of these on my bracket, but these are the most likely upsets in my opinion. Anyone beating Kansas in the first two rounds. Bucknell over Memphis, Indiana over Gonzaga.
Sleeper Teams: These are teams that I could see making a deep run, maybe even making the final four. In this region my sleeper picks are Indiana and Pitt.
Best Player(s): Adam Morrison, SF Gonzaga. Morrison is one of the best scorers I’ve ever seen at the college level. In my mind he’s been the best player in America this year. While his defense is a liability and he doesn’t rebound enough, his scoring and clutchness more then make up for his short comings. Unfortunately for Morrison and Co. they’re going to lose to UCLA in the Sweet 16. In fact I would have Gonzaga losing in earlier, except I believe Morrison can carry them into the 2nd round.
Best Games (Potentially): UCLA-Gonzaga: This would be a great game. The best way to beat Gonzaga is to let Adam Morrison get his and just stop everyone else. But Ben Howland maybe to arrogant to let this happen because of how great of a defensive coach he is. This game is also for the best team on the west coast title. UCLA-Pitt: Ben Howland’s new team versus his old team and former assistant. Always a fun and over played story line. Indiana-Gonzaga: Because Mike Davis is resigning at the end of the tournament, every Indiana game is most see. Also the Hoosiers have the talent and style of play that could drive Gonzaga nuts.
Fearless Prediction(s): Every announcer will over-hype/over-praise Jordan Farmar, while being unaware that Aaron Affalo is actually the key to any success UCLA might have. Also that Memphis’s tournament exit will be mainly self ionflicted.
Sweet 16 Teams: Memphis, Pitt, Gonzaga and UCLA.
Bracket Winner: UCLA. The Bruins are one of the best defense teams in the nation. They play Big East Style defense and west coast style offense. They match up well with just about every team in this bracket. Sure Memphis beat them earlier in the year, but Memphis peaked in December, no one knows that yet because they haven’t played anybody good since then. The Bruins are peaking now and I believe that they should win this division.
Atlanta: Southeast Region
Tough Outs a.ka. the team(s) no one wants to play: George Washington (especially if Pops Mensah-Bonsu plays.), UNC-Wilmington, Iona, Southern Illinois and UCBerkley (otherwise known as Cal.)
Upset Specials: Again, I may not have them in my bracket, but here’s the most likely of the upsets in this region. Texas A&M over Syracuse (trust me, ‘Cuse is dunzo.), Iona over LSU, West Virginia over everyone, Cal over Texas.
Sleeper Teams: George Washington (especially if Pops Mensah-Bonsu plays.), West Virginia(if they can actually be considered that), California, Iona.
Best Player(s): J.J. Redick, Duke. With Pops Mensah-Bonsu likely out for the tournament, this honor has to go to the overrated Redick. While I’m tempted to give in to Leon Powe, Redick has almost earned the non-stop praise he’s received this year. He’s become a great scorer and leader, although he’s still overrated as a shooter.
Best Games (Potentially): West Virginia –Iowa: Could be the game of the tournament. These teams match up really well and it will be one of the few times I’m not rooting for an upset in the 1st round because I want to see this game that badly. Duke-GW: Only if Pops Nebsah-Bonsu plays.
Fearless Prediction(s): The winner of the West Virginia –Iowa 2nd round match up is going to the Final Four. Duke will get at least one controversial late game call that won’t decide the game, but it will definitely push it in their favor.
Sweet 16 Teams: Duke, LSU, Iowa, Texas. (Say it with me now: BORING!)
Bracket Winner: Iowa. Maybe it’s because I dislike Duke, or I’m just smart enough to see that they’re falling apart, but I don’t see them getting out of this region. Iowa is the second best team in this region, followed closely by their second round opponent West Virginia. All things considered Duke should make it out of this region, but I think Iowa has the right combination of shooting, defense and senior leadership to get to the finals.
Minneapolis: The Midwest Region
Tough Outs a.ka. the team(s) no one wants to play: Arizona(hey stfu, seriously stop laughing.), Nevada, UW-Milwaukee, Northern Iowa and Georgetown.
Upset Specials: South Alabama over Florida (The Gators always choke, and South Alabama is actually a pretty good team, I feel confident about this one.), UW-Milwaukee, Arizona over Villanova (honestly now it could happen. Right? Right?), Georgetown over Ohio State.
Sleeper Teams: Georgetown, Neveda, Arizona (Ok I’ll admit it, I’m mildly insane and a huge homer.) and South Alabama.
Best Player(s): Nick Fazekas, Nevada. The 6-11 forward plays mostly like a 2-guard. He’s drawn compasions to Dirk Nowitski, but he has a better back to the basket game and he’s a better defender. Fazekas has a great all-around game.
Best Games (Potentially): Boston College-Nevada: The match-up of two of the best forwards in the nation between BC’s Jared Dudley and Fazekas. Villanova-Ohio State: Both teams play 4 guard oriented offenses. The both match up well with each other, could be a great game.
Fearless Prediction(s): Mustafa Shakur’s homecoming will last two games. Too much attention will be paid to Allen Ray’s injured eye.
Sweet 16 Teams: Villanova, Nevada, Ohio State and South Alabama
Bracket Winner: Villanova: Even with out Allen Ray at full strength the Wildcats should take this region. It all comes down to guard play in the tournament and Villanova’s quartet of guards, led by Randy Foye will be a tough match up for everyone. Even if they go cold one night I think Ohio State and BC (although we all know the Eagles are going to choke) are the only teams that can beat them in this bracket.
Washington D.C.: The East Region
Tough Outs a.ka. the team(s) no one wants to play: Brandon Roy, er, I mean Washington, Murray State and Utah State.
Upset Specials: Michigan State over UNC, Wichita State over Tennessee, Utah State over Washington (Read: Brandon Roy)
Sleeper Teams: Brandon Roy, Michigan State (even though everyone expects them to make a deep run), Wichita State and Utah State.
Best Player(s): Dee Brown, Illinois. Brandon Roy, Washington. Tyler Hansbrough, UNC. Marcus Williams, UCONN. Brown is arguable the best floor leader in the country, and despite his poor shooting percentage is the main reason Illinois is still competitive this year. Roy just might be the best scorer in the country. Hansbrough is the countries best Freshman and is easily a top 5 post player in college. Rudy Gay gets all the pup for UCONN, but Marcus Williams, the countries best play maker, is the difference maker for the Huskies.
Best Games (Potentially): UNC-Michigan State: Another potential game of the tournament that will be played in the second round. UNC-MSU winner-UCONN: While UCONN should win this bracket, whomever wins the 2nd round game between the Tarheels and the Spartans will give them a great game.
Fearless Prediction(s): Soon as Dee Brown goes cold the Illini are done. Tennessee will flame out before the sweet 16.
Sweet 16 Teams: UCONN, Washington, Michigan State and Wichita State.
Bracket Winner: UCONN. They have the most talent in the country and a great coach. They can go 9 deep and felon turned PG Marcus Williams just might be the best floor generals in the country
My Final Four & Champion:
UCONN-Villinova: This is the real championship game.
Iowa-UCLA: Two great defense teams slugging it out what will be a very boring game by comparison to it’s counterpart.
Championship: UCONN over Iowa: This game will be close for about 25-30 minutes before UCONN’s athleticism and talent take over.
Well writing all of this has taken a lot out of me. I barely have the strength left to wrap this all up. Just enjoy the next three weeks, they’re the best in sports.
Until We Meet Again
*Please don’t hold me to that.
** Speaking of Utah State, nothing can prepare for how scaring looking there 27 year-old, formerly accused of rape point guard David Pak is. Trust me, you don’t want small children anywhere near the television when Utah State is playing.*** Sorry about that, but it’s industry standard to have at least one Ashley Judd per. March Madness write up. It should also be noted that I don’t condone underage drinking of any kind.
Monday, March 13, 2006
March Madness Manifesto, The Interlude
Never fear readers. My tournament manifesto with full bracket analysis will be up tomorrow(or Wednesday). But for now here’s so burning question that I felt needed to be answered.
1. Q: Is Gerry McNamara really this good? A: Yes and no. As a gunner/streak shooter, when McNamara’s on he’s always been one of the best in college hoops. But what he did in the Big East Tournament was just stupid. I don’t mean it was dumb in any way; he was just so damn good that it was ridiculous. He played like a smart heady senior, and he made more big plays then I care to think about. But as you’ll soon find out, I think the Orange Men are dunzo.
2. Q: Should Gonzaga fans be worried? A: Yes, an emphatic yes. For those of you who didn’t see it the ‘Zags won their conference tournament by one when Flowing Wells product Chris Ayers missed an uncontested lay up on the games final play. Now a close win isn’t cause for alarm, but the facts that the ‘Zags can’t win a game on D is. And as you’ll find out tomorrow (or Wednesday), there’s a reason they’re not going to make it to the final 8 this year.
3. Q: Is there even a glimmer of hope out of Arizona’s dreadful season and tournament draw? A: Yes, but only a little. For starters it appears that Wisconsin is the only team in the tourney that some how shoots worse then Arizona (based solely on percentages). And if we get out of the first round we’ll be playing with the houses money. Of course I said the same thing last year, that we’d be playing with the houses money if we made it to the 2nd week, and we all know how that turned out.*
4. Q: Is there anyway to avoid the Vitale/Packer/Rafter trifecta this month? A: Yes, but you’d miss all of March Madness. Fortunately that’s about the only catch of March Madness**
5. Q: How does Joe Lundari have a job? A: I don’t know. But in my personal opinion Bracketology is to Sports Journalism as Dermatology is to Doctors.
Well that’s it for now rockers. Come back tomorrow(or Wednesday) for the Manifesto that will change the way you fill out you’re brackets, and possibly your life.
Until We Meet Again
* Or do we? As far as I’m concerned Arizona’s season ended with a Sweet 16 victory over OSU. After that the Cats were kicked out of the tournament because Salim Stoudamire was just too good. Or something like that.
** That and the constant felating of Duke.
1. Q: Is Gerry McNamara really this good? A: Yes and no. As a gunner/streak shooter, when McNamara’s on he’s always been one of the best in college hoops. But what he did in the Big East Tournament was just stupid. I don’t mean it was dumb in any way; he was just so damn good that it was ridiculous. He played like a smart heady senior, and he made more big plays then I care to think about. But as you’ll soon find out, I think the Orange Men are dunzo.
2. Q: Should Gonzaga fans be worried? A: Yes, an emphatic yes. For those of you who didn’t see it the ‘Zags won their conference tournament by one when Flowing Wells product Chris Ayers missed an uncontested lay up on the games final play. Now a close win isn’t cause for alarm, but the facts that the ‘Zags can’t win a game on D is. And as you’ll find out tomorrow (or Wednesday), there’s a reason they’re not going to make it to the final 8 this year.
3. Q: Is there even a glimmer of hope out of Arizona’s dreadful season and tournament draw? A: Yes, but only a little. For starters it appears that Wisconsin is the only team in the tourney that some how shoots worse then Arizona (based solely on percentages). And if we get out of the first round we’ll be playing with the houses money. Of course I said the same thing last year, that we’d be playing with the houses money if we made it to the 2nd week, and we all know how that turned out.*
4. Q: Is there anyway to avoid the Vitale/Packer/Rafter trifecta this month? A: Yes, but you’d miss all of March Madness. Fortunately that’s about the only catch of March Madness**
5. Q: How does Joe Lundari have a job? A: I don’t know. But in my personal opinion Bracketology is to Sports Journalism as Dermatology is to Doctors.
Well that’s it for now rockers. Come back tomorrow(or Wednesday) for the Manifesto that will change the way you fill out you’re brackets, and possibly your life.
Until We Meet Again
* Or do we? As far as I’m concerned Arizona’s season ended with a Sweet 16 victory over OSU. After that the Cats were kicked out of the tournament because Salim Stoudamire was just too good. Or something like that.
** That and the constant felating of Duke.
Wednesday, March 08, 2006
Quick Hitters
Here some quick hitters for all of you to kill some time before March Madness Starts. (It should be noted for some of you newer readers that for the duration of March Madness this blog will be 97.3% dedicated to March Madness, woot. Anyhow on to with the post.)
- Where has Josh Hartnet gone?
- Isn’t about time that Las Vegas changes it’s slogan from What happens here stays here to Las Vegas: We’re all about debauchery.
- Hassan Adams, go f*** yourself.*
- Stuart Scott: Bad anchor, lazy eye, whiter then the Gumble brothers.
- As bad as Wildcat basketball has been this year watching JJ Redick and Duke implode has brought a smile to my face and a hop to my step. But don’t worry Blue Devil fans, I’m sure the Selection Committee will gift wrap a region for you, while putting UConn, UNC, Gonzaga, West Virginia, Villanova, Michigan St., Texas, UCLA and Memphis all in the same region.
- Music Recommendations: Stars – Set Yourself on Fire**, Southland – Influence of Geography.
- If given the option to attend the Women’s NCAA Final Four and having colon cancer I’m not sure which I’d choose.
- Word on the street is that Allen Iverson was left off Team USA because Jerry Calangelo didn’t want a hip-hop image. Yet he’s made an acussed rapist the team’s spokesperson. Curious.
- On a similar note how the hell did Calengelo get this job? This is the same man who traded “Thunder Dan” Marjlie in his prime for John “HOT Rod” Williams and Jason Kidd straight up for Stephon Marbury. Yep that sounds like the man I want putting together Team USA.
- For those of you wondering about the last two years in which the Suns have made excellent moves, well those were all done by Jerry’s son Brian.
- On the subject of Brokeback Mountain I have this to say: I’m sick and tired of this sh*t. I mean honestly, is it just me or does everyone feel like this was the punch line unfunny people have been waiting all their lives for? I mean how can you not make a funny Brokeback Mountain joke? Trust me this is going to end badly. In a few months they’ll be hundreds of unfunny people believing that they’re funny because of Brokeback Mountain.
- I made a 125 dollars at the Casino last night. Nothing to add here, just thought you all should know.
- Catholics all over the world rejoice as Crash is named best picture. ***
- Years ago my friends and I tried to start a trend of getting people to say make me beautiful whenever someone lit their cigarette for them. This never really caught on and I still haven’t gotten over it. Sorry, just thought you’d like to know that as well.
- Spring is arriving, and whenever spring comes around everyone seems to get a little more happy. Such has always been the case for me. However this year when the increased happiness was met with an odd amount of guilt and disappointment. I feel as if I haven’t earned the happiness because I didn’t suffer through a sh*tty Midwest winter. In related new I’m clearly insane.
Well I’m done.
Until We Meet Again
* Is this a reference to his DUI or his game-ting three pointer attempt that missed the rim by about 5 feet? You decide.
** Arguably a top 10 album of 2005.
*** If you don’t get this joke, see the movie. If you’ve seen the movie and still don’t get it, consider this word: guilt.
- Where has Josh Hartnet gone?
- Isn’t about time that Las Vegas changes it’s slogan from What happens here stays here to Las Vegas: We’re all about debauchery.
- Hassan Adams, go f*** yourself.*
- Stuart Scott: Bad anchor, lazy eye, whiter then the Gumble brothers.
- As bad as Wildcat basketball has been this year watching JJ Redick and Duke implode has brought a smile to my face and a hop to my step. But don’t worry Blue Devil fans, I’m sure the Selection Committee will gift wrap a region for you, while putting UConn, UNC, Gonzaga, West Virginia, Villanova, Michigan St., Texas, UCLA and Memphis all in the same region.
- Music Recommendations: Stars – Set Yourself on Fire**, Southland – Influence of Geography.
- If given the option to attend the Women’s NCAA Final Four and having colon cancer I’m not sure which I’d choose.
- Word on the street is that Allen Iverson was left off Team USA because Jerry Calangelo didn’t want a hip-hop image. Yet he’s made an acussed rapist the team’s spokesperson. Curious.
- On a similar note how the hell did Calengelo get this job? This is the same man who traded “Thunder Dan” Marjlie in his prime for John “HOT Rod” Williams and Jason Kidd straight up for Stephon Marbury. Yep that sounds like the man I want putting together Team USA.
- For those of you wondering about the last two years in which the Suns have made excellent moves, well those were all done by Jerry’s son Brian.
- On the subject of Brokeback Mountain I have this to say: I’m sick and tired of this sh*t. I mean honestly, is it just me or does everyone feel like this was the punch line unfunny people have been waiting all their lives for? I mean how can you not make a funny Brokeback Mountain joke? Trust me this is going to end badly. In a few months they’ll be hundreds of unfunny people believing that they’re funny because of Brokeback Mountain.
- I made a 125 dollars at the Casino last night. Nothing to add here, just thought you all should know.
- Catholics all over the world rejoice as Crash is named best picture. ***
- Years ago my friends and I tried to start a trend of getting people to say make me beautiful whenever someone lit their cigarette for them. This never really caught on and I still haven’t gotten over it. Sorry, just thought you’d like to know that as well.
- Spring is arriving, and whenever spring comes around everyone seems to get a little more happy. Such has always been the case for me. However this year when the increased happiness was met with an odd amount of guilt and disappointment. I feel as if I haven’t earned the happiness because I didn’t suffer through a sh*tty Midwest winter. In related new I’m clearly insane.
Well I’m done.
Until We Meet Again
* Is this a reference to his DUI or his game-ting three pointer attempt that missed the rim by about 5 feet? You decide.
** Arguably a top 10 album of 2005.
*** If you don’t get this joke, see the movie. If you’ve seen the movie and still don’t get it, consider this word: guilt.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
