NKU with a mere 8 pt's in 17 1/2 minutes to open the game and only 14 for the entire first half. Adjusted for SOS, IU has the #3 effective FG defense in the nation (Torvik) and is ranked #7/#14 (Torvik/KenPom) on overall defensive efficiency. Guessing a ranking based strictly on first half stats would have them in front of everyone. Perimeter D seems to fall off pretty quick after halftime, perhaps because of over-helping and slower recovery on same by the second unit. That needs 'fixing' before B10 play begins.
IF (yeah I know) IU can maintain the defensive intensity for 40 minutes and IF the offense continues to improve (frigging TOs) and 'catch up' to the D, this Team is going to be a challenge for most everyone. Not saying they will be or crowning them in advance, only that the potential is there and that they have enough game to beat anyone in Conference.
Xavier really is the 'x factor' for this Team. His speed and assertiveness with the ball in transition is at times breathtaking, his D is relentless and disruptive, and at his best not sure there are many better, at least in the B10. IF (there's that word again) Woodson and Co. can get him to 'stay out of his own way' and play smart and 'detached', IU's offense could in fact 'catch up' to its offense. Would really really like to see that on a routine and consistent basis this Season.
IF (yeah I know) IU can maintain the defensive intensity for 40 minutes and IF the offense continues to improve (frigging TOs) and 'catch up' to the D, this Team is going to be a challenge for most everyone. Not saying they will be or crowning them in advance, only that the potential is there and that they have enough game to beat anyone in Conference.
Xavier really is the 'x factor' for this Team. His speed and assertiveness with the ball in transition is at times breathtaking, his D is relentless and disruptive, and at his best not sure there are many better, at least in the B10. IF (there's that word again) Woodson and Co. can get him to 'stay out of his own way' and play smart and 'detached', IU's offense could in fact 'catch up' to its offense. Would really really like to see that on a routine and consistent basis this Season.