The Big 12 Conference basketball title chase is the most competitive in years and we can thank Kansas.
The Jayhawks are reeling. They have lost three straight and have lost their hold on first place. It’s been about 6-7 years since Kansas has lost three straight.
Kansas’ neighbor, Kansas State is a top of the Big 12 with an 8-2 record. Kansas and Oklahoma State are next at 7-3 and the log jam with Oklahoma, Iowa State and Baylor at 6-4.
This race could be like a horse one—a photo finish.
Kansas State may not hold the top spot alone for long. The Wildcats visit Kansas tonight (Monday). The Jayhawks won’t lose four straight will they? Kansas has already beaten their rival in Manhattan but Kansas State is playing well. Should be a competitive game.
One team not involved in the race is Texas. What has happened to the Longhorns? They have made the NCAA tournament 14 straight years under Coach Rick Barnes. That streak will probably come to an end this season.
Showing posts with label Kansas State. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Kansas State. Show all posts
Monday, February 11, 2013
Monday, February 4, 2013
The Big 12 Conference Basketball Race Becomes Interesting
Kansas was planning to run away with another Big 12 Conference title when Oklahoma State came to Lawrence, Kansas.
The Cowboys proceeded to pull off the shocking upset and remove the don’t-touch-Kansa-tag. It was the highlight of a “positioning” day in league play.
Kansas State was the other squad with the big road win dumping Oklahoma. Iowa State grabbed a home win over Baylor. The result of all these games was a jumbled conference race.
The Wildcats trail their in-state brethren by only one game. Baylor, Iowa State, Oklahoma and Oklahoma State are all tied for third place two games behind Kansas.
There will be guaranteed separation in third place this week.
Tonight (Monday) Oklahoma travels to Iowa State. Wednesday Baylor travels to Oklahoma State.
Not only will these games affect the league race, but the post-season as well. In a down year in the Big 12, every win is precious to enhance the NCAA tournament resume.
And with every team playing each other twice, the Big 12 crowns a true league champion. Let the fun continue.
Monday, January 28, 2013
Iowa State Men's Basketball on Rise
The Iowa State men’s basketball team is positioning for a NCAA tournament bid. If successful, it will mark the second straight year the Cyclones have qualified under favorite Iowa State son Fred Hoiberg.
Iowa State garnered a big win Saturday over previously No. 11 ranked Kansas State. It moved Iowa State’s conference home record to a perfect 3-0. The Cyclones have lost to Kansas and Texas Tech on the road. Their lone visiting win was at TCU.
So the Cyclones sit at 4-2 in the Big 12 tied for third place with Kansas State and Oklahoma. Iowa State is 14-5 overall.
Iowa State has plenty of talent on its roster. The question is always can the Cyclones play to their talent? Iowa State has looked like world-beaters in some games like a near loss to Kansas. But in other contests, it has resembled an average or marginal club. It’s still hard to fathom that loss at Texas Tech. Tech is the second worst team in the league.
The Cyclones have an upcoming rugged four-game stretch, but two of the games are at home. This Wednesday, Iowa State plays at Oklahoma State—a team some believed was the second best team in the conference at one point. Saturday, the Cyclones host second-place Baylor. Next week, it’s Oklahoma at home and Kansas State away.
It’s time for Iowa State to prove it is NCAA tournament worthy. It’s time for the talent to show up on a consistent basis.
Monday, November 19, 2012
Be Careful What You Wish For
I was feeling pretty good about the prospects of the BCS National Championship Game and then Saturday came.
Usually I don’t cheer for the favorites unless I have a definite interest in the outcome. But Saturday was different. I was routing for No. 1 Kansas State and No. 2 Oregon because I am sick of watching the Southeastern Conference in the national championship game. Alabama had slipped to No. 4 in the BCS and the only way the Tide had a chance was if two of the top three teams lost.
And surprise, surprise, that’s what happened Saturday.
Baylor destroyed Kansas State and Oregon forgot to bring its high-powered offense in an overtime loss to Stanford.
Unfortunately, Alabama is now No. 2 in the BCS (behind Notre Dame) and headed for the national title game unless there is another upset. Even if Alabama would loss this week against Auburn and lose the SEC championship game, Georgia (another SEC team) is waiting to sneak up into that No. 2 BCS slot.
So here’s this Midwest guy cheering for Alabama and Georgia to loss. We need some variety in college football folks and another SEC team in the championship game defeats that plan.
Will Alabama lose again this season?
Usually I don’t cheer for the favorites unless I have a definite interest in the outcome. But Saturday was different. I was routing for No. 1 Kansas State and No. 2 Oregon because I am sick of watching the Southeastern Conference in the national championship game. Alabama had slipped to No. 4 in the BCS and the only way the Tide had a chance was if two of the top three teams lost.
And surprise, surprise, that’s what happened Saturday.
Baylor destroyed Kansas State and Oregon forgot to bring its high-powered offense in an overtime loss to Stanford.
Unfortunately, Alabama is now No. 2 in the BCS (behind Notre Dame) and headed for the national title game unless there is another upset. Even if Alabama would loss this week against Auburn and lose the SEC championship game, Georgia (another SEC team) is waiting to sneak up into that No. 2 BCS slot.
So here’s this Midwest guy cheering for Alabama and Georgia to loss. We need some variety in college football folks and another SEC team in the championship game defeats that plan.
Will Alabama lose again this season?
Monday, November 12, 2012
Thank-You Texas A&M
Texas A&M defeated mighty Alabama Saturday in Tuscaloosa and essentially ruined the Tide’s defense of their national title.
Oh sure, Alabama Coach Nick Saban was telling the football world after the game that the Tide still had a chance to play in the BCS title game with one loss. Maybe Saban does have a future in politics when his coaching gig is over.
But the best news about the Aggie upset is the Southeastern Conference’s stronghold on the BCS title game appears over. I think the league has furnished the BCS game with at least one representative in the last six title games.
Kansas State and Oregon are No. 1 and No. 2 in the BCS rankings now. Notre Dame, another undefeated team is No. 3. Alabama fell to No. 4 and needs at least two of the top three teams to lose.
Kansas State has the best opportunity to play in the championship game. The Wildcats play at Baylor and host Texas. That’s K-State’s remaining schedule because it plays no Big 12 Conference Championship game. Oregon plays two qualify opponents in Stanford and at Oregon State. The game against the Beavers should be particularly difficult. Independent Notre Dame should beat Wake Forest this Saturday and then have a battle at USC.
So yes, Nick, your team could still play for the championship, but the Tide needs lots of assistance.
The SEC has provided lots of vanilla and chocolate in the title games and its more than time to replace those flavors with some variety.
Thank you-Texas A&M.
Oh sure, Alabama Coach Nick Saban was telling the football world after the game that the Tide still had a chance to play in the BCS title game with one loss. Maybe Saban does have a future in politics when his coaching gig is over.
But the best news about the Aggie upset is the Southeastern Conference’s stronghold on the BCS title game appears over. I think the league has furnished the BCS game with at least one representative in the last six title games.
Kansas State and Oregon are No. 1 and No. 2 in the BCS rankings now. Notre Dame, another undefeated team is No. 3. Alabama fell to No. 4 and needs at least two of the top three teams to lose.
Kansas State has the best opportunity to play in the championship game. The Wildcats play at Baylor and host Texas. That’s K-State’s remaining schedule because it plays no Big 12 Conference Championship game. Oregon plays two qualify opponents in Stanford and at Oregon State. The game against the Beavers should be particularly difficult. Independent Notre Dame should beat Wake Forest this Saturday and then have a battle at USC.
So yes, Nick, your team could still play for the championship, but the Tide needs lots of assistance.
The SEC has provided lots of vanilla and chocolate in the title games and its more than time to replace those flavors with some variety.
Thank you-Texas A&M.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Something Special in the Little Apple
Don’t look now but Kansas State is marching to an appearance in the BCS title game. The Wildcats (8-0) are second in the BCS standings behind Alabama.
If you enjoy wide-open football, Kansas State isn’t your pleasure. If you appreciate a blue collar approach that stresses solid defense and limited turnovers, then the Wildcats are a delight.
Kansas State coach Bill Snyder will never coach sexy football. He will never draw attention to himself. He will never attractive a stable-full of blue-chip athletes to Manhattan, Kansas—known as the Little Apple. But what Snyder will do is win plenty of football games.
Snyder is 167-83-1 in his 21st year at Kansas State. The guy retired once and then came back for a second stint in 2009. Coaching twice at the same school is a rarity but it fits Snyder.
The 73-year-old doesn’t look like a coach but rather a high school teacher. His players enjoy playing for a guy who is a disciplinarian. He models his program after former Iowa football coach Hayden Fry who Snyder served under for a number of years as offensive coordinator. For example, have you noticed the Kansas State uniforms? They are exactly like Iowa uniforms except for the color scheme and logo.
Kansas State has a fairly favorable schedule the rest of the way. The Wildcats have home games remaining with Oklahoma State and Texas and road games with TCU and Baylor. They also benefit with no Big 12 Conference Championship game.
But can Kansas State function as a hunted team? Don’t count Snyder and his disciplined Wildcats out. They aren’t looking for style points just hard-working victories.
If you enjoy wide-open football, Kansas State isn’t your pleasure. If you appreciate a blue collar approach that stresses solid defense and limited turnovers, then the Wildcats are a delight.
Kansas State coach Bill Snyder will never coach sexy football. He will never draw attention to himself. He will never attractive a stable-full of blue-chip athletes to Manhattan, Kansas—known as the Little Apple. But what Snyder will do is win plenty of football games.
Snyder is 167-83-1 in his 21st year at Kansas State. The guy retired once and then came back for a second stint in 2009. Coaching twice at the same school is a rarity but it fits Snyder.
The 73-year-old doesn’t look like a coach but rather a high school teacher. His players enjoy playing for a guy who is a disciplinarian. He models his program after former Iowa football coach Hayden Fry who Snyder served under for a number of years as offensive coordinator. For example, have you noticed the Kansas State uniforms? They are exactly like Iowa uniforms except for the color scheme and logo.
Kansas State has a fairly favorable schedule the rest of the way. The Wildcats have home games remaining with Oklahoma State and Texas and road games with TCU and Baylor. They also benefit with no Big 12 Conference Championship game.
But can Kansas State function as a hunted team? Don’t count Snyder and his disciplined Wildcats out. They aren’t looking for style points just hard-working victories.
Friday, October 26, 2012
Notre Dame-Oklahoma: A Huge College Football Game
The college football season is just past the mid-point and rarely does a non-conference game hold so much significance this late in the season. But that “rarely” happens Saturday night in Norman, Oklahoma when Notre Dame opposes the Sooners.
Notre Dame (7-0) holds the No. 5 ranking in the BCS (Bowl Championship Series), whereas Oklahoma (5-1) is No. 8.
Most people are viewing this as an extremely important game for Notre Dame, but an Oklahoma win would boost the Sooners in the BCS standings and put them back in the hunt for the national championship.
If the Irish can defeat Oklahoma, they have only one more challenging game on their schedule: a Nov. 24 date at Southern Cal (USC).
Many thought Oklahoma would be a national championship contender but then the Sooners had an early season hiccup at home against Kansas State. But Oklahoma has picked it up after that devastating loss and the Sooners should give a stern test to the Irish.
Notre Dame has obviously been a surprise this season after finishing 8-5 in 2011. Phil Steele ranks the Irish schedule the most difficult in the country. I don’t know about that, but the Irish better bring their A-game to Norman Saturday night.
Who wins Saturday night and why?
Notre Dame (7-0) holds the No. 5 ranking in the BCS (Bowl Championship Series), whereas Oklahoma (5-1) is No. 8.
Most people are viewing this as an extremely important game for Notre Dame, but an Oklahoma win would boost the Sooners in the BCS standings and put them back in the hunt for the national championship.
If the Irish can defeat Oklahoma, they have only one more challenging game on their schedule: a Nov. 24 date at Southern Cal (USC).
Many thought Oklahoma would be a national championship contender but then the Sooners had an early season hiccup at home against Kansas State. But Oklahoma has picked it up after that devastating loss and the Sooners should give a stern test to the Irish.
Notre Dame has obviously been a surprise this season after finishing 8-5 in 2011. Phil Steele ranks the Irish schedule the most difficult in the country. I don’t know about that, but the Irish better bring their A-game to Norman Saturday night.
Who wins Saturday night and why?
Monday, October 8, 2012
Iowa State: A Fun Team to Watch
Coach Paul Rhoads and his Iowa State football team have developed the reputation of scoring some big upsets in Rhoad’s tenure.
Saturday, Iowa State added to its collected with a 37-23 victory over No. 15 ranked Texas Christian (TCU) in Fort Worth. During Rhoad’s four years at the Iowa State helm, the Cyclones have defeated highly ranked Nebraska, Texas and Oklahoma State. Just last season Iowa State shocked No. 2 Oklahoma State in its last regular season game and knocked the Cowboys out of the race for the national championship.
Against TCU, the Cyclones took advantage of various Horned Frog turnovers and the absence of TCU starting quarterback Casey Pachall due to a suspension.
Rhoads gave sophomore quarterback Jared Barnett his first season’s start. The native Texan responded with three touchdown passes in front of many family and friends in the stands.
Iowa State is simply a fun team to watch. Ever since Rhoads became the coach you sense the Cyclones are going to be competitive in each game. That’s the exception rather than the rule with Iowa State in its football history.
Rhoads is every much the cheerleader as well as football coach. The Iowa native was slapping players on the back, patting their helmets and hugging them Saturday.
Next opportunity for an upset is this week. No. 5 in the ESPN Coach’s Poll Kansas State comes to Ames. Can Iowa State continue its upset magic? Don’t count the Cyclones out.
Saturday, Iowa State added to its collected with a 37-23 victory over No. 15 ranked Texas Christian (TCU) in Fort Worth. During Rhoad’s four years at the Iowa State helm, the Cyclones have defeated highly ranked Nebraska, Texas and Oklahoma State. Just last season Iowa State shocked No. 2 Oklahoma State in its last regular season game and knocked the Cowboys out of the race for the national championship.
Against TCU, the Cyclones took advantage of various Horned Frog turnovers and the absence of TCU starting quarterback Casey Pachall due to a suspension.
Rhoads gave sophomore quarterback Jared Barnett his first season’s start. The native Texan responded with three touchdown passes in front of many family and friends in the stands.
Iowa State is simply a fun team to watch. Ever since Rhoads became the coach you sense the Cyclones are going to be competitive in each game. That’s the exception rather than the rule with Iowa State in its football history.
Rhoads is every much the cheerleader as well as football coach. The Iowa native was slapping players on the back, patting their helmets and hugging them Saturday.
Next opportunity for an upset is this week. No. 5 in the ESPN Coach’s Poll Kansas State comes to Ames. Can Iowa State continue its upset magic? Don’t count the Cyclones out.
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
I will Miss Frank Martin in the Big 12 Conference
Frank Martin was introduced yesterday as the new basketball coach at South Carolina. Martin leaves Kansas State after a five-year run. His record was 117-54 and he led the Wildcats to a regional final in 2010.
Martin will be missed in the Big 12 Conference. The colorful, fiery coach built a solid program at Kansas State. Martin received a big break when Bob Huggins left after one year at Kansas State to take the job at West Virginia. Martin, Huggin’s assistant, was then elevated to the top job.
Rumors persisted that Martin and the Kansas State athletic administration were at odds. The talk was Martin wanted to depart Manhattan, Kansas. Both sides denied the so-called rift. Whether it was truth or fiction, Martin is gone to the Southeastern Conference.
Martin must enjoy a challenge. South Carolina went 2-14 in its league and 10-21 overall last season. The term, NCAA tournament, is a foreign concept. Yes, Martin has plenty of work to do.
I wrote a January blog about Martin’s anger issues. Apparently, it didn’t scare off South Carolina. The Gamecocks need some fire and a culture change.
Martin claims his fiery nature is only in his coaching life. That he tried to tame it down over his Kansas State term.
Regardless, I’ll need to pay a little closer attention to the Gamecock program now. They say absence makes the heart grow fonder. I’m sure I’ll miss Martin’s stare and glare from his Kansas States days, so I better catch a South Carolina game or two on television.
Martin will be missed in the Big 12 Conference. The colorful, fiery coach built a solid program at Kansas State. Martin received a big break when Bob Huggins left after one year at Kansas State to take the job at West Virginia. Martin, Huggin’s assistant, was then elevated to the top job.
Rumors persisted that Martin and the Kansas State athletic administration were at odds. The talk was Martin wanted to depart Manhattan, Kansas. Both sides denied the so-called rift. Whether it was truth or fiction, Martin is gone to the Southeastern Conference.
Martin must enjoy a challenge. South Carolina went 2-14 in its league and 10-21 overall last season. The term, NCAA tournament, is a foreign concept. Yes, Martin has plenty of work to do.
I wrote a January blog about Martin’s anger issues. Apparently, it didn’t scare off South Carolina. The Gamecocks need some fire and a culture change.
Martin claims his fiery nature is only in his coaching life. That he tried to tame it down over his Kansas State term.
Regardless, I’ll need to pay a little closer attention to the Gamecock program now. They say absence makes the heart grow fonder. I’m sure I’ll miss Martin’s stare and glare from his Kansas States days, so I better catch a South Carolina game or two on television.
Friday, March 9, 2012
Baylor Bears Make Fashion Statement
The Baylor men’s basketball team unveiled its new post season uniforms Thursday in the quarterfinal final round of the Big 12 Conference tournament. And all I can say is wow!
Those electric yellow uniforms are extremely bright and noticeable. They might even glow in the dark.
The Bears are one of three teams Addias selected to wear these new lighter weight uniforms. Big East members Louisville and Cincinnati are the others. But with a green and gold color scheme, Baylor is the most striking color combination. Louisville and Cincinnati have combinations of red, black and white.
By all reports, Baylor players enjoy their uniforms. The players even matched them with electric yellow shoe laces for their shoes.
The best part was how Baylor played in the uniforms. The Bears played one of their best games of the season with an eight-point victory over Kansas State. Baylor and Perry Jones III dominated. Jones had his way with the Wildcats with a career high 31 points and grabbing 11 rebounds.
Maybe Kansas State played poorly because it was blinded by Baylor’s uniforms. If that’s the case, maybe Baylor should wear even brighter ones.
Baylor now plays Kansas in the semifinals. The Jayhawks don’t need to worry about those electric yellow threads. Baylor is the visiting team and will break out the green uniforms. Probably a good thing for Kansas.
Those electric yellow uniforms are extremely bright and noticeable. They might even glow in the dark.
The Bears are one of three teams Addias selected to wear these new lighter weight uniforms. Big East members Louisville and Cincinnati are the others. But with a green and gold color scheme, Baylor is the most striking color combination. Louisville and Cincinnati have combinations of red, black and white.
By all reports, Baylor players enjoy their uniforms. The players even matched them with electric yellow shoe laces for their shoes.
The best part was how Baylor played in the uniforms. The Bears played one of their best games of the season with an eight-point victory over Kansas State. Baylor and Perry Jones III dominated. Jones had his way with the Wildcats with a career high 31 points and grabbing 11 rebounds.
Maybe Kansas State played poorly because it was blinded by Baylor’s uniforms. If that’s the case, maybe Baylor should wear even brighter ones.
Baylor now plays Kansas in the semifinals. The Jayhawks don’t need to worry about those electric yellow threads. Baylor is the visiting team and will break out the green uniforms. Probably a good thing for Kansas.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Iowa State Cyclones have Golden Opportunity
This has been a banner year for Fred Hoiberg’s Iowa State men’s basketball team. The Cyclones are 21-8 (11-5 in conference) and could tie for second place tonight with a victory at Missouri.
The Cyclones further punched their NCAA tournament ticket with an impressive win at Kansas State last Saturday. Now they take on a bruised Missouri team that has lost back-to-back games against Kansas State and Kansas. So either the Tigers will come out fighting mad or still be feeling sorry for themselves.
No. 7 ranked Missouri handled Iowa State quite easily in an earlier contest in Ames. But the Cyclones seem to have found greater confidence and enjoy being probably the surprise of the Big 12 Conference.
The questions about tonight’s game are many. Can Royce White dominate the game and actually make free throws? Will Iowa State play like a real road team and get soundly defeated? Will Missouri’s consistent pressure hurt the Cyclones? Will Missouri score in bunches? Can Iowa State’s dream season continue?
If the Cyclones can some how get past Missouri, things could get really interesting. Iowa State hosts another top 10 team—Baylor—in the regular season finale Saturday
The Cyclones further punched their NCAA tournament ticket with an impressive win at Kansas State last Saturday. Now they take on a bruised Missouri team that has lost back-to-back games against Kansas State and Kansas. So either the Tigers will come out fighting mad or still be feeling sorry for themselves.
No. 7 ranked Missouri handled Iowa State quite easily in an earlier contest in Ames. But the Cyclones seem to have found greater confidence and enjoy being probably the surprise of the Big 12 Conference.
The questions about tonight’s game are many. Can Royce White dominate the game and actually make free throws? Will Iowa State play like a real road team and get soundly defeated? Will Missouri’s consistent pressure hurt the Cyclones? Will Missouri score in bunches? Can Iowa State’s dream season continue?
If the Cyclones can some how get past Missouri, things could get really interesting. Iowa State hosts another top 10 team—Baylor—in the regular season finale Saturday
Monday, February 27, 2012
Kansas Jayhawks Rise Above
The old saying, “The Big 12 Basketball Championship goes through Lawrence, Kansas” is certainly true. That proof was apparent Saturday.
Missouri had a 19-point lead over the Jayhawks in the second half. A Missouri victory would have tied Kansas for the Big 12 Conference lead. But the Jayhawks weren’t in a sharing mood.
They stormed back, forced overtime and finished the job in the extra period. Finals score: Kansas 87, Missouri 86.
Kansas’ victory clinched at least a tie for the league title (with a two-game lead). The Jayhawks should win both of their remaining games: tonight at Oklahoma State and Saturday night hosting Texas.
I was hoping the conference would have a different champion this season. Baylor looked good in the early going, but now has five losses. Missouri seemed a solid contender but recent slipups against Kansas State and Oklahoma State forged the Tigers into second place.
I have a feeling Kansas is indeed happy with its conference dominance. But in recent years, Kansas has been a flop in the NCAA tournament. The Jayhawks hope their league success this year will transfer to the Big Dance.
My gut feeling: don’t count on it.
Missouri had a 19-point lead over the Jayhawks in the second half. A Missouri victory would have tied Kansas for the Big 12 Conference lead. But the Jayhawks weren’t in a sharing mood.
They stormed back, forced overtime and finished the job in the extra period. Finals score: Kansas 87, Missouri 86.
Kansas’ victory clinched at least a tie for the league title (with a two-game lead). The Jayhawks should win both of their remaining games: tonight at Oklahoma State and Saturday night hosting Texas.
I was hoping the conference would have a different champion this season. Baylor looked good in the early going, but now has five losses. Missouri seemed a solid contender but recent slipups against Kansas State and Oklahoma State forged the Tigers into second place.
I have a feeling Kansas is indeed happy with its conference dominance. But in recent years, Kansas has been a flop in the NCAA tournament. The Jayhawks hope their league success this year will transfer to the Big Dance.
My gut feeling: don’t count on it.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
This Team has Missouri's Number
The Missouri Tigers have lost only three games the entire season. That’s the good news. The bad news is two of those loses came against Kansas State.
It’s safe to say the Wildcats have Missouri’s number.
Kansas State dominated the Tigers in a 78-68 win last night at Columbia. The Wildcats flexed their muscle and Missouri put up little resistance.
Kansas State is on a mission of its own. The Wildcats beat then No. 9/10 Baylor last Saturday. Now, they add No.3 Missouri to its resume. This work should be more than enough to earn Kansas State (19-8) a NCAA tournament bid.
Missouri is in danger of losing a Big 12 Conference title. The Tigers are one game behind Kansas and must face the Jayhawks in Lawrence Saturday. Missouri will have to show much more toughness against Kansas than it did against Kansas State to have a chance for a victory.
And you can bet Kansas Coach Bill Self took notes on how Kansas State bullied Missouri. Look for the Jayhawks to try that same route Saturday.
Missouri should be fine once it gets past this week. But don’t bring the Kansas State name to the Tigers. Understandably, they are a bit testy about the subject.
It’s safe to say the Wildcats have Missouri’s number.
Kansas State dominated the Tigers in a 78-68 win last night at Columbia. The Wildcats flexed their muscle and Missouri put up little resistance.
Kansas State is on a mission of its own. The Wildcats beat then No. 9/10 Baylor last Saturday. Now, they add No.3 Missouri to its resume. This work should be more than enough to earn Kansas State (19-8) a NCAA tournament bid.
Missouri is in danger of losing a Big 12 Conference title. The Tigers are one game behind Kansas and must face the Jayhawks in Lawrence Saturday. Missouri will have to show much more toughness against Kansas than it did against Kansas State to have a chance for a victory.
And you can bet Kansas Coach Bill Self took notes on how Kansas State bullied Missouri. Look for the Jayhawks to try that same route Saturday.
Missouri should be fine once it gets past this week. But don’t bring the Kansas State name to the Tigers. Understandably, they are a bit testy about the subject.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Tournament Fever in Ames, Iowa
Pardon Iowa State fans if they are getting a fever—NCAA tournament fever.
Iowa State stormed back last night from a 14-point deficit to hand Kansas State a tough two-point loss. Royce White shot a jumper with 1.8 seconds remaining for the win.
The victory gave the Cyclones two straight over the state of Kansas (they beat Kansas last Saturday) and improved their record to 6-3 in the Big 12 Conference (16-6 overall).
Beating then fifth-ranked Kansas and usually ranked Kansas State has intensified the NCAA tournament talk around Ames, Iowa. Iowa State fans desperately want to return to the tournament because it has been a long time. The last tournament appearance was in 2005 under coach Wayne Morgan
Iowa State put together a so-so pre-conference season, but the Cyclones have picked up steam in league play. They are in fourth place and if they can maintain the upper conference standing, you have to figure the Cyclones have a decent shot at the tournament.
Cyclone players and coaches are saying all the right things. They are taking it one game at a time. But fans have the future in mind and they are dreaming of a NCAA tournament bid.
Dreams do come true even if you must wait several years. Cyclone fans hope this is finally the year.
Iowa State stormed back last night from a 14-point deficit to hand Kansas State a tough two-point loss. Royce White shot a jumper with 1.8 seconds remaining for the win.
The victory gave the Cyclones two straight over the state of Kansas (they beat Kansas last Saturday) and improved their record to 6-3 in the Big 12 Conference (16-6 overall).
Beating then fifth-ranked Kansas and usually ranked Kansas State has intensified the NCAA tournament talk around Ames, Iowa. Iowa State fans desperately want to return to the tournament because it has been a long time. The last tournament appearance was in 2005 under coach Wayne Morgan
Iowa State put together a so-so pre-conference season, but the Cyclones have picked up steam in league play. They are in fourth place and if they can maintain the upper conference standing, you have to figure the Cyclones have a decent shot at the tournament.
Cyclone players and coaches are saying all the right things. They are taking it one game at a time. But fans have the future in mind and they are dreaming of a NCAA tournament bid.
Dreams do come true even if you must wait several years. Cyclone fans hope this is finally the year.
Monday, January 30, 2012
The Magic Returns
Iowa State men’s basketball coach Fred Hoiberg said when it took the Cyclone job over two years ago that Hilton Magic needed to be a part of the Iowa State landmark again.
Hoiberg got his wish Saturday when the Cyclones rolled No. 5 Kansas in Hilton Coliseum.
“Hilton Magic” is a term to describe the game day atmosphere in Iowa State’s basketball facility and the tremendous home court advantage the building seems to provide.
The place was rocking-and-a-rolling Saturday. Even via the TV, you could tell the building was extremely loud. The fans were “willing” the Cyclones to grab a victory.
Probably more than any other team in the Big 12 Conference, Kansas knows all about Hilton Magic. The Jayhawks often come to Ames highly ranked and often leave Hilton Coliseum highly disappointed. So the Kansas ending was familiar on another Saturday.
The outcome wasn’t without some drama however. The Jayhawks kept it close until the end. Contrary to popular brief, Iowa State’s Royce White can make free throws. Kansas fouled the much maligned free throw shooter hoping to get back into the contest in the later stages. White calmly sunk two free throws with 1:47 remaining. It was like a knife to the heart for Kansas.
We’ll see if Hilton Magic is here for an extended stay or just a glimpse of the past. Kansas State appears in the building Tuesday. Iowa State should expect a tough game because the Wildcats were upset by Oklahoma in Manhattan Saturday. The Cats should be angry.
Hoiberg got his wish Saturday when the Cyclones rolled No. 5 Kansas in Hilton Coliseum.
“Hilton Magic” is a term to describe the game day atmosphere in Iowa State’s basketball facility and the tremendous home court advantage the building seems to provide.
The place was rocking-and-a-rolling Saturday. Even via the TV, you could tell the building was extremely loud. The fans were “willing” the Cyclones to grab a victory.
Probably more than any other team in the Big 12 Conference, Kansas knows all about Hilton Magic. The Jayhawks often come to Ames highly ranked and often leave Hilton Coliseum highly disappointed. So the Kansas ending was familiar on another Saturday.
The outcome wasn’t without some drama however. The Jayhawks kept it close until the end. Contrary to popular brief, Iowa State’s Royce White can make free throws. Kansas fouled the much maligned free throw shooter hoping to get back into the contest in the later stages. White calmly sunk two free throws with 1:47 remaining. It was like a knife to the heart for Kansas.
We’ll see if Hilton Magic is here for an extended stay or just a glimpse of the past. Kansas State appears in the building Tuesday. Iowa State should expect a tough game because the Wildcats were upset by Oklahoma in Manhattan Saturday. The Cats should be angry.
Monday, January 16, 2012
Baylor Seeks Respect
The Baylor Bears men’s basketball team is having a phenomenal year. The Bears are only one of three undefeated teams left (Syracuse and Murray State are the others) and have raced to a 17-0 record.
Baylor is ranked No. 4 in the land but could gain much more respect nationally tonight. The Bears face Big 12 Conference dominator Kansas in Lawrence.
Some say this is an off year for the Jayhawks but many teams would love to have an off year at 14-3. Kansas is 16-2 overall against Baylor and 9-0 at home.
During Baylor’s drubbing of Oklahoma State Saturday, the ESPN announcers said the Kansas game was the Bears most important regular season game ever. That might be and might not be, but Baylor wants the win badly.
The Bears have been road warriors with wins at BYU, Northwestern and Kansas State. This will definitely help with the game at Allen Fieldhouse. Not many visiting teams are happy with the results when they leave that place. Allen Fieldhouse is an extremely difficult place to play.
Baylor can end the Allen Fieldhouse jinx and position itself for a strong postseason run. A victory would give the Bears much love and extra confidence going forward.
It should be one of the most entertaining games of the season.
Baylor is ranked No. 4 in the land but could gain much more respect nationally tonight. The Bears face Big 12 Conference dominator Kansas in Lawrence.
Some say this is an off year for the Jayhawks but many teams would love to have an off year at 14-3. Kansas is 16-2 overall against Baylor and 9-0 at home.
During Baylor’s drubbing of Oklahoma State Saturday, the ESPN announcers said the Kansas game was the Bears most important regular season game ever. That might be and might not be, but Baylor wants the win badly.
The Bears have been road warriors with wins at BYU, Northwestern and Kansas State. This will definitely help with the game at Allen Fieldhouse. Not many visiting teams are happy with the results when they leave that place. Allen Fieldhouse is an extremely difficult place to play.
Baylor can end the Allen Fieldhouse jinx and position itself for a strong postseason run. A victory would give the Bears much love and extra confidence going forward.
It should be one of the most entertaining games of the season.
Friday, November 4, 2011
The College Football Diet
If you are trying to wean yourself from watching too much college football on TV Saturday, this is a great weekend to accomplish the feat.
Other than the huge LSU-Alabama game Saturday night, the offerings are really slim.
You might want to flip over to Kansas State-Oklahoma State (also in primetime) on occasion. The explosive Cowboys are receiving serious national attention and can score points in a hurry. Kansas State was an item until it was thumped by Oklahoma in Manhattan. The Wildcats don’t seem to pose much of a threat playing Oklahoma State in Stillwater.
The laugher game in primetime is Notre Dame-Wake Forest. That’s the other regional game on ABC besides Oklahoma State-Kansas State. I say laugher game because are you serious: Notre Dame-Wake Forest in primetime? Who exactly will watch that game? Who really cares?
So all-in-all, it’s a good day to wash the car, rake some leaves and clean out the garage or basement. You will have plenty of time before LSU-Alabama starts.
Other than the huge LSU-Alabama game Saturday night, the offerings are really slim.
You might want to flip over to Kansas State-Oklahoma State (also in primetime) on occasion. The explosive Cowboys are receiving serious national attention and can score points in a hurry. Kansas State was an item until it was thumped by Oklahoma in Manhattan. The Wildcats don’t seem to pose much of a threat playing Oklahoma State in Stillwater.
The laugher game in primetime is Notre Dame-Wake Forest. That’s the other regional game on ABC besides Oklahoma State-Kansas State. I say laugher game because are you serious: Notre Dame-Wake Forest in primetime? Who exactly will watch that game? Who really cares?
So all-in-all, it’s a good day to wash the car, rake some leaves and clean out the garage or basement. You will have plenty of time before LSU-Alabama starts.
Friday, October 28, 2011
Watch Some College Football Saturday
There is a number of interesting college football matchups tomorrow (Saturday).
Stanford is the No. 1 team on upset alert this week. The Cardinal has visions of playing for a possible national championship, but this week’s game at Southern California (USC) should test Stanford’s resolve. The probation-ridden Trojans are in the unusual spoiler role and would like to put a blemish on this Andrew Luck team.
Is Kansas State for real? We will find out this week when the undefeated Wildcats host Oklahoma. It’s a bad time to play the Sooners after Texas Tech upset Oklahoma last Saturday. If the Sooners still want to cling to small hopes of a national championship, they cannot lose any more games.
Undefeated Oklahoma State hopes to continue its push for a national championship when the Cowboys host Baylor. The Bears can score points but probably cannot stop the Cowboy offense. This game could end up 73-55.
Has Michigan State come down from its miracle win over Wisconsin? The Spartans travel to Nebraska tomorrow and it should be a tight one. Both are one-loss teams but the Spartans are undefeated in Big Ten Conference play.
Wisconsin hopes to avoid another loss this week. The Badgers travel to Ohio State Saturday. The road was a pitfall in East Lansing last Saturday, but one-loss Wisconsin needs to rebound if it wants to compete for a conference championship game.
What games are you watching this weekend? What team do you think should be on upset alert?
Stanford is the No. 1 team on upset alert this week. The Cardinal has visions of playing for a possible national championship, but this week’s game at Southern California (USC) should test Stanford’s resolve. The probation-ridden Trojans are in the unusual spoiler role and would like to put a blemish on this Andrew Luck team.
Is Kansas State for real? We will find out this week when the undefeated Wildcats host Oklahoma. It’s a bad time to play the Sooners after Texas Tech upset Oklahoma last Saturday. If the Sooners still want to cling to small hopes of a national championship, they cannot lose any more games.
Undefeated Oklahoma State hopes to continue its push for a national championship when the Cowboys host Baylor. The Bears can score points but probably cannot stop the Cowboy offense. This game could end up 73-55.
Has Michigan State come down from its miracle win over Wisconsin? The Spartans travel to Nebraska tomorrow and it should be a tight one. Both are one-loss teams but the Spartans are undefeated in Big Ten Conference play.
Wisconsin hopes to avoid another loss this week. The Badgers travel to Ohio State Saturday. The road was a pitfall in East Lansing last Saturday, but one-loss Wisconsin needs to rebound if it wants to compete for a conference championship game.
What games are you watching this weekend? What team do you think should be on upset alert?
Monday, October 17, 2011
Iowa State Cyclones Hit the Skids
The Iowa State football team has played only six games this season, but the contrast is frightening.
Iowa State surprisingly won its first three games despite committing numerous turnovers. Northern Iowa, Iowa and UCONN couldn’t take full advantage of the errors.
The Cyclones have continued the mistakes against Texas, Baylor and Missouri and the final result has not been pretty. Iowa State has suffered three blowout losses.
So the Cyclones are at 3-3. Sadly, they should be favored in only one remaining game. Kansas comes to Ames on Nov. 5 but other than that, the schedule looks bleak. Even more so, if Iowa State keeps turning the ball over, the scores could remain real ugly.
Playing giveaway and playing the likes of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State and Kansas State, does not bode well for the Cyclones.
Coach Paul Rhoads has fashioned an upset the last two seasons: Nebraska in 2009 and Texas in 2010, so the magic is still possible. But as the coaches say, Iowa State will need to play a near perfect football game for that to happen. Perfection has definitely been a foreign word to this team so far this season.
Iowa State needs to reverse the negative trend quickly or this season will become disaster just as quickly.
Iowa State surprisingly won its first three games despite committing numerous turnovers. Northern Iowa, Iowa and UCONN couldn’t take full advantage of the errors.
The Cyclones have continued the mistakes against Texas, Baylor and Missouri and the final result has not been pretty. Iowa State has suffered three blowout losses.
So the Cyclones are at 3-3. Sadly, they should be favored in only one remaining game. Kansas comes to Ames on Nov. 5 but other than that, the schedule looks bleak. Even more so, if Iowa State keeps turning the ball over, the scores could remain real ugly.
Playing giveaway and playing the likes of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State and Kansas State, does not bode well for the Cyclones.
Coach Paul Rhoads has fashioned an upset the last two seasons: Nebraska in 2009 and Texas in 2010, so the magic is still possible. But as the coaches say, Iowa State will need to play a near perfect football game for that to happen. Perfection has definitely been a foreign word to this team so far this season.
Iowa State needs to reverse the negative trend quickly or this season will become disaster just as quickly.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
The Big 12 Conference Soap Opera
What a 24-hours in the Big 12 Conference.
Yesterday, it was all doom and gloom for the league. Rumors had Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Texas and Texas Tech all going to the Pac-12 Conference.
Oklahoma was apparently making demands of the Big 12 while waiting the word from the Pac-12. The Sooners said the Big 12 needed major reforms including firing its commissioner before they would ever choose to stay in the league.
Well, the Pac-12 discarded all the realignment talk for at least a few hours in this unstable environment when it said “Thanks, but no thanks” to the four Big 12 schools.
We are now left with only gloom and some serious egg on Oklahoma’s face.
The Big 12 is still in major trouble because there are now two schools wanting to play by its own rules. In recent days, Oklahoma’s behavior has shown the “me first” attitude. Texas has always been the league’s kingpin.
Where this struggle ends up, nobody knows, but you must feel sorry for schools like Iowa State, Baylor, Kansas State and Kansas. Without real recourse, these conference members have been wondering if they would be forced to scramble for some other affiliation. If I were those schools, I would still keep the eyes open in the back of the head.
Texas needs to quit acting like a spoiled child. It can no longer eat four deserts and leave the other family members with crumbs. Oklahoma needs to patch up their grievances with Texas and become a good family member. The Sooners must look out for other conference members and promote their benefit as well.
I know this novel concept of sharing seems outdated in this world, but it’s the only way the Big 12 will even have a chance to survive.
Yesterday, it was all doom and gloom for the league. Rumors had Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Texas and Texas Tech all going to the Pac-12 Conference.
Oklahoma was apparently making demands of the Big 12 while waiting the word from the Pac-12. The Sooners said the Big 12 needed major reforms including firing its commissioner before they would ever choose to stay in the league.
Well, the Pac-12 discarded all the realignment talk for at least a few hours in this unstable environment when it said “Thanks, but no thanks” to the four Big 12 schools.
We are now left with only gloom and some serious egg on Oklahoma’s face.
The Big 12 is still in major trouble because there are now two schools wanting to play by its own rules. In recent days, Oklahoma’s behavior has shown the “me first” attitude. Texas has always been the league’s kingpin.
Where this struggle ends up, nobody knows, but you must feel sorry for schools like Iowa State, Baylor, Kansas State and Kansas. Without real recourse, these conference members have been wondering if they would be forced to scramble for some other affiliation. If I were those schools, I would still keep the eyes open in the back of the head.
Texas needs to quit acting like a spoiled child. It can no longer eat four deserts and leave the other family members with crumbs. Oklahoma needs to patch up their grievances with Texas and become a good family member. The Sooners must look out for other conference members and promote their benefit as well.
I know this novel concept of sharing seems outdated in this world, but it’s the only way the Big 12 will even have a chance to survive.
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