Groundhog Day
Posted by Jim on Mar 18, 2009
It’s March Madness again! The Selection Committee met, fans gathered around their televisions, waiting for the big announcement of where the cougars would be playing, and who would be their opponent. As ESPN announcer declared the brackets, there was a a sense of “dejá vu”.
Once again, the Cougars are the 8 seed. Once again, they’re matched up against the Aggies of Texas A&M. I almost expected Bill Murray to jump out of my closet as my clock radio to began to blair out “I got you Babe”. So what do the Cougars need to do this time to create a different outcome.
Compete on the Boards:
Last year, the Aggies owned the boards, and pulled down 13 more than the boys in Blue. This years edition of the A&M is also a tough rebounding team, pulling down and average of 5+ more rebounds than their opponents. If the Cougars can keep the battle of the boards even and limit A&M for getting quick and easy putbacks, they should be in pretty good shape.
Come Out Quick:
Last year, the Cougs missed several early shots, getting behind 11-0 before they started to relax and play the game. This year, the Cougars need to come out of the gates ready to play, and not get down early.
Make their Free-throws:
The Aggies got to the free-throw line almost 300 more times this year than did their adversaries. BYU needs to try to keep the free throw attempts even, and convert when they do get to the line.
The Opportunity:
The Cougars are in familiar territory. they have been here before. This will be a great chance for them to relax, use what they know from last year, and come out to find a smile on their faces the next morning.
