Thursday, March 26, 2009

Press row rumblings

Greetings from TD Banknorth Garden, an arena that despite its massive size in the center of Boston is still unheard of by many cab drivers apparently...
Some thoughts as the game is ten minutes from tip here:
-Miller may try to win this chess match with Dixon by using a variety of different looks on defense. Pitt has struggled with the press, so Xavier may go with a 3/4 court look in the early stages, or even a full court man. Also, Miller will likely turn to a 3-2 zone defense that has been effective for the Musketeers this season in limiting the opponent's looks on the interior, but also in increasing the opponent's offensive rebounds (which may be why Miller goes to a zone sparingly today).
-Look for Xavier to try to get Blair to guard on the perimeter in a variety of situations. If you don't like seeing a variety of high ball-screens, then hide your eyes when Xavier has the ball.
-As always, the first four minutes will tell a lot of the story for Xavier. They are not a team with a high-powered offense, so storming back from even a six point early deficit may be a tall order. Dante Jackson, especially has proven to indicate strong play throughout with his early play--or a tough night with weak play early. XU needs to come out strong.

Alright that is all I got for now. I need to go figure out why DeJuan Blair needed to be restrained from charging into the locker room during the national anthem.

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