IU +7.5
- Thread starter uncleter
- Start date
Listen, I know IU hasn't played to the level of our talent. In a lot of instances, we can even say we simply played down to our opponents. With that being said, Indiana is 6-1 and Michigan is 4-4. Michigan has lost 4 of their last 5 games. That doesn't necessarily mean we're then better but they're giving us +7.5 pts? Well ok!
Michigan is awful, and reeling. Otoh, they have their backs against the wall and this game has to be pretty critical for them.
Otoh, IU really hadn’t faced any (or certainly much) adversity yet.
Not sure what it all means, as far as intangibles go, s/b interesting to see.
If( Big IF) I were a betting person I would take the points and run.
And if we do I'm sure you'll be here making excuses about how bad Michigan is and how the win doesn't mean anything.
Unbearable is an understatement at this point.
They lost to Long Beach State at home and to Memphis and TTech in the Bahamas and Oregon on the road.
B1G road wins are always quality wins. It really doesn't matter the opponent.
At the time IU played UConn we hadn’t even showed we belonged on the same court with most mid majors. Subsequently, defense has improved and so has Mgbako, to give us more offensive weapons. Not saying IU will win, but they aren’t the team they were 2 weeks ago.
Do we know if X or Cupps will play? Even if they do I expect the home cooking to be typical B1G proportions.
I want a good game by IU even if they don't win. Expecting half the IU team to foul out with about 8 min remaining. FT attempts for UM in the 30 range and about 15 for IU.
On the plus side, if they can pull this out it will be a nice confidence booster.
I want a good game by IU even if they don't win. Expecting half the IU team to foul out with about 8 min remaining. FT attempts for UM in the 30 range and about 15 for IU.
On the plus side, if they can pull this out it will be a nice confidence booster.
Wait... consider this!
To secure a victory against favored Michigan, IU must focus on the following ten key strategies:
1. Balanced Offense: Encourage a team-oriented approach where the ball is distributed evenly, ensuring multiple players have the opportunity to score. Balance play involves the IU guards creating plays that utilize the strengths of different players and encourage shooting from those in the best positions.
2. High-Efficiency Shooting: Focus on taking high-percentage shots. This includes working the ball inside for closer shots and selecting three-pointers judiciously. Players should be patient and wait for open looks rather than forcing contested shots.
3. Strong Defense: Implement a robust defensive strategy to limit Michigan's scoring opportunities. IU's defense tonight will involve tight man-to-man defense with an effective zone defense to interrupt MU's offensive flow and strong defensive rebounding to prevent second-chance points.
4. Transition Offense: Capitalize on fast-break opportunities. Quick transitions from defense to offense can catch the Michigan defense off-guard and lead to accessible scoring opportunities.
5. Effective Ball Movement: Encourage crisp, quick passing to keep the defense moving and create scoring opportunities. Avoid stagnation and ensure the ball doesn't get stuck in one player's hands for too long.
6. Control the Rebound: Dominating offensive and defensive rebounds can provide IU with extra possessions and limit Michigan's. This will be critical in maintaining offensive rhythm and preventing Michigan from gaining momentum.
7. Limit Turnovers: Protect the ball and reduce unnecessary turnovers. Good decision-making and careful ball handling will be essential to maintain control of the game's pace.
8. Bench Contribution: Utilize the bench effectively to maintain the intensity and efficiency when starters rest. The bench players should contribute offensively and defensively to keep the team's performance consistent.
9. Foul Management: Avoid getting key players into trouble and be strategic with fouls. Drawing fouls and succeeding at free-throw opportunities can also be an avenue for easy points.
10. Mental Toughness and Adaptability: Maintain focus, composure, and resilience throughout the game. Be ready to adapt the game plan based on how the game unfolds and respond positively to Michigan's strategies.
We need balanced scoring with five players in double figures, which requires a well-coordinated team effort, excellent execution of game strategies, and the ability to adapt to in-game situations. With these factors in play, I like IU's chances of securing a victory against Michigan.
Key Player tonight: Gabe Cupps
Gabe Cupps' involvement could be a significant factor. His performance can influence the game's outcome in several ways:
• Scoring Impact: If Cupps is effective in scoring, especially in critical moments, it can boost IU's offense and pressure Michigan's defense.
• Playmaking and Assists: As a guard, Cupps' ability to create plays and assist teammates can enhance IU's overall offensive efficiency.
• Defensive Role: His contribution on the defensive end, through steals, defensive rebounds, and disrupting Michigan's offensive flow, can be pivotal.
• Three-Point Shooting: If Cupps excels in three-point shooting, it can help match or surpass Michigan's strength, a key component of their game.
• Leadership and Poise: As a player known for his composure and leadership, Cupps' presence on the court can have a calming effect on the team, especially in high-pressure situations.
• Energy and Momentum: Cupps' energy and aggression on both ends of the floor can influence the game's momentum, rallying his team and potentially shifting the game in IU's favor.
• Handling Pressure: His ability to handle pressure, especially in a challenging away game environment, will be crucial. Managing the game's pace and decision-making under pressure can significantly impact the outcome.
Time for him to shine!
I presumed they would be holding him out till the early Jan schedule picks up.
I don't think it smells right that it's a broken bone....as he started the next game but it looked like it got sore on him.
The guy can't stay healthy. Reminds me of Penix when he was here.
There are a lot of small bones in the foot. Could have been something not immediately apparent on an X-ray.
Matchups battles to watch!
PG Matchup: Gabe Cupps vs. Dug McDaniel
- Cupps must use his playmaking skills and scoring ability to outperform McDaniel. His leadership and decision-making will be vital in controlling the game's pace.
SG Matchup: T. Galloway vs. N. Burnett
- Galloway's shooting and defense will be crucial in this matchup. His ability to contribute offensively while containing Burnett's scoring threat is essential.
SF Matchup: M. Mgbako vs. T. Williams
- Mgbako's versatility and athleticism will be tested against Williams. This matchup could be pivotal in terms of both scoring and defensive responsibilities.
PF Matchup: Malik Reneau vs. O. Nkamhoua
- Reneau's offensive and defensive performance in the paint will be critical. His ability to battle for rebounds and score in the post could give us an edge.
C Matchup: Kel'el Ware vs. Tarris Reed
- Ware's rim protection and rebounding will be crucial. His matchup with Reed could dictate the inside game, which is critical for us.
The key to Indiana's victory lies in effectively exploiting these matchups and our bench play. Stay out of foul trouble MR!
PG Matchup: Gabe Cupps vs. Dug McDaniel
- Cupps must use his playmaking skills and scoring ability to outperform McDaniel. His leadership and decision-making will be vital in controlling the game's pace.
SG Matchup: T. Galloway vs. N. Burnett
- Galloway's shooting and defense will be crucial in this matchup. His ability to contribute offensively while containing Burnett's scoring threat is essential.
SF Matchup: M. Mgbako vs. T. Williams
- Mgbako's versatility and athleticism will be tested against Williams. This matchup could be pivotal in terms of both scoring and defensive responsibilities.
PF Matchup: Malik Reneau vs. O. Nkamhoua
- Reneau's offensive and defensive performance in the paint will be critical. His ability to battle for rebounds and score in the post could give us an edge.
C Matchup: Kel'el Ware vs. Tarris Reed
- Ware's rim protection and rebounding will be crucial. His matchup with Reed could dictate the inside game, which is critical for us.
The key to Indiana's victory lies in effectively exploiting these matchups and our bench play. Stay out of foul trouble MR!
Sure thing. I remember the 2007 game against UK. EJ, Bassett, and Ratliff were all out. We were down to just Crawford and Ellis (RIP) at guard. Sampson coached a masterful game and we won by nearly 20. It can be done!
Michigan has struggled rebounding the ball, and I think that continues with us.
They have been terrible at closing games, we’ve been good. I know KenPom doesn’t mean much yet, but they are I believe in the 300s in luck and we are currently top 10. Their strength is offense.
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