Monday, March 7, 2011
The Matchup 3/7/11
College Basketball's regular season is over. There's a plethora of tournament action this week but the big boys are still a day or two away from playing. Therefore today we focus on an NBA matchup
NBA
Oklahoma City @ Memphis - SportSouth 8 p.m.
Seeking their first playoff berth since 2006, the Grizzlies were 14-19 after a New Year's Day loss. They're in eighth place in the West now -- just two games out of fifth. In their last game the Grizzlies battled back from 18 down to snap the Dallas' 8 game winning streak. Russell Westbrook had 32 points and 11 assists to lead Oklahoma City past Phoenix 122-118 in overtime in the Thunder's last game, their 3rd straight victory. Memphis leads the season series 2-1.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
The Matchup 3/5/11
Today is the last regular season Saturday in College Basketball, and it does not disappoint with a loaded slate of games that have tournament and conference championship implications.
College Basketball
#2 Kansas @ #24 Missouri - CBS 12 p.m.
The Jayhawks (28-2, 13-2) can earn their third straight outright crown with their 10th win in 11 tries over Missouri (22-8, 8-7) or a Texas loss at Baylor on Saturday evening. A Kansas loss and a Longhorns win would give Texas a share of the title and a No. 1 seed in Kansas City. Missouri, has gone 17-0 at home this season, winning by an average of 22.5 points and prevailing in 51 of 53 home contests over the last three seasons. Kansas, however, is the last opponent to win at Mizzou Arena, 77-56 last March. The Jayhawks have won four straight over their rivals by an average of 20.5 points.
#11 Louisville @ West Virginia - ESPN 12 p.m.
Louisville (23-7, 12-5) currently sits 3rd in the Big East and has already clinched a double-bye in the Big East Tournament next week. West Virginia (19-10, 10-7) on the other hand is in a three-way tie for 6th and is right in the middle of a logjam for Big East Tournament position. Louisville won the teams first matchup in January 55-54.
#7 Notre Dame @ #16 Connecticut - ESPN 2 p.m.
Notre Dame (24-5, 13-4) needs a victory Saturday and a loss by No. 4 Pittsburgh to No. 19 Villanova to share the Big East crown with the Panthers. The Fighting Irish would be the top seed by virtue of a 56-51 win over Pitt on Jan. 24. Connecticut (21-8, 9-8), meanwhile, needs a win and some help to finish in the top half of the conference and earn a first-round bye instead of having to play its Big East tourney opener Tuesday at Madison Square Garden. The Irish won 73-70 at home Jan. 4, but Notre Dame hasn't won at UConn since a 75-70 victory in 1999-2000.
#19 Villanova @ #5 Pittsburgh - CBS 4 p.m.
The Panthers (26-4, 14-3) are in wonderful shape to finish the season with a net-clipping celebration at the Petersen Events Center. The Panthers are 5-3 vs. Top 25 teams, have already defeated Villanova this season, and have won the last seven consecutive games in the series in Pittsburgh, including a 3-0 record vs. the Wildcats in The Pete, their new home which opened in 2002. The Wildcats (21-9, 9-8) were picked second in the Big East. But they'll likely be lumped with traditional also-rans like Seton Hall and DePaul in the first round of the conference tournament on Tuesday.
#14 Florida @ #20 Vanderbilt - ESPN 6 p.m.
The Gators, unranked and coming off a disappointing loss at Mississippi State heading into the Feb. 1 matchup, knocked off the then-No. 23 Commodores 65-61 in overtime. That began a six-game winning streak for Florida (23-6, 12-3), which fell at then-No. 22 Kentucky last Saturday before clinching a share of the conference crown Tuesday by routing Alabama 78-51. The Commodores (21-8, 9-6) would go on to win five straight after the defeat, but have cooled off. losing two of their last three. Vanderbilt fell 68-66 to No. 20 Kentucky on Tuesday as its second-half comeback came up short.
#4 Duke @ #13 North Carolina - CBS 8 p.m.
For the fifth consecutive season, the rivals conclude the regular season with a league crown at stake. Duke (27-3, 13-2) was undefeated and the ACC frontrunner entering league play this season, while North Carolina had four losses and looked like a major disappointment after opening the season ranked eighth. However, the Tar Heels (23-6, 13-2) have won 16 of 18 since losing to Texas on a last-second shot Dec. 18. They have won six in a row since Duke overcame a 16-point deficit to beat them 79-73 at Cameron Indoor Stadium on Feb. 9.
#8 Texas @ Baylor - ESPN 9 p.m.
Texas (24-6, 12-3 Big 12) appeared headed for its first regular-season conference title since 2007-08 and a possible No. 1 seed in the NCAA tournament going into its final five games. The Longhorns, though, have dropped three of four to fall one game behind first-place Kansas. Texas snapped a four-game losing streak against Baylor (18-11, 7-8) with a 69-60 victory Feb. 12. Baylor, loser of eight of 14, is looking to boost its tenuous chances for an NCAA tournament bid.
College Basketball
#2 Kansas @ #24 Missouri - CBS 12 p.m.
The Jayhawks (28-2, 13-2) can earn their third straight outright crown with their 10th win in 11 tries over Missouri (22-8, 8-7) or a Texas loss at Baylor on Saturday evening. A Kansas loss and a Longhorns win would give Texas a share of the title and a No. 1 seed in Kansas City. Missouri, has gone 17-0 at home this season, winning by an average of 22.5 points and prevailing in 51 of 53 home contests over the last three seasons. Kansas, however, is the last opponent to win at Mizzou Arena, 77-56 last March. The Jayhawks have won four straight over their rivals by an average of 20.5 points.
#11 Louisville @ West Virginia - ESPN 12 p.m.
Louisville (23-7, 12-5) currently sits 3rd in the Big East and has already clinched a double-bye in the Big East Tournament next week. West Virginia (19-10, 10-7) on the other hand is in a three-way tie for 6th and is right in the middle of a logjam for Big East Tournament position. Louisville won the teams first matchup in January 55-54.
#7 Notre Dame @ #16 Connecticut - ESPN 2 p.m.
Notre Dame (24-5, 13-4) needs a victory Saturday and a loss by No. 4 Pittsburgh to No. 19 Villanova to share the Big East crown with the Panthers. The Fighting Irish would be the top seed by virtue of a 56-51 win over Pitt on Jan. 24. Connecticut (21-8, 9-8), meanwhile, needs a win and some help to finish in the top half of the conference and earn a first-round bye instead of having to play its Big East tourney opener Tuesday at Madison Square Garden. The Irish won 73-70 at home Jan. 4, but Notre Dame hasn't won at UConn since a 75-70 victory in 1999-2000.
#19 Villanova @ #5 Pittsburgh - CBS 4 p.m.
The Panthers (26-4, 14-3) are in wonderful shape to finish the season with a net-clipping celebration at the Petersen Events Center. The Panthers are 5-3 vs. Top 25 teams, have already defeated Villanova this season, and have won the last seven consecutive games in the series in Pittsburgh, including a 3-0 record vs. the Wildcats in The Pete, their new home which opened in 2002. The Wildcats (21-9, 9-8) were picked second in the Big East. But they'll likely be lumped with traditional also-rans like Seton Hall and DePaul in the first round of the conference tournament on Tuesday.
#14 Florida @ #20 Vanderbilt - ESPN 6 p.m.
The Gators, unranked and coming off a disappointing loss at Mississippi State heading into the Feb. 1 matchup, knocked off the then-No. 23 Commodores 65-61 in overtime. That began a six-game winning streak for Florida (23-6, 12-3), which fell at then-No. 22 Kentucky last Saturday before clinching a share of the conference crown Tuesday by routing Alabama 78-51. The Commodores (21-8, 9-6) would go on to win five straight after the defeat, but have cooled off. losing two of their last three. Vanderbilt fell 68-66 to No. 20 Kentucky on Tuesday as its second-half comeback came up short.
#4 Duke @ #13 North Carolina - CBS 8 p.m.
For the fifth consecutive season, the rivals conclude the regular season with a league crown at stake. Duke (27-3, 13-2) was undefeated and the ACC frontrunner entering league play this season, while North Carolina had four losses and looked like a major disappointment after opening the season ranked eighth. However, the Tar Heels (23-6, 13-2) have won 16 of 18 since losing to Texas on a last-second shot Dec. 18. They have won six in a row since Duke overcame a 16-point deficit to beat them 79-73 at Cameron Indoor Stadium on Feb. 9.
#8 Texas @ Baylor - ESPN 9 p.m.
Texas (24-6, 12-3 Big 12) appeared headed for its first regular-season conference title since 2007-08 and a possible No. 1 seed in the NCAA tournament going into its final five games. The Longhorns, though, have dropped three of four to fall one game behind first-place Kansas. Texas snapped a four-game losing streak against Baylor (18-11, 7-8) with a 69-60 victory Feb. 12. Baylor, loser of eight of 14, is looking to boost its tenuous chances for an NCAA tournament bid.
Friday, March 4, 2011
The Matchup 3/4/11
NBA
Chicago @ Orlando - ESPN 7 p.m.
A pair of furious second-half rallies have the Magic's winning streak at four heading into Friday night's visit from the Central Division-leading Bulls, who hope to put a second-half collapse behind them and avoid their sixth straight loss in Orlando. While Derrick Rose and Dwight Howard are clearly two of the league's top players, much of the success for the Bulls and Magic hinges on how Luol Deng and Jason Richardson, respectively, perform. Chicago is 23-5 when Deng scores 19 points or more, while Orlando is 18-5 when Richardson contributes at least 11 points. The teams have split their previous two meetings this season, both in Chicago.
Oklahoma City @ Atlanta - FSN South 7:30 p.m.
The league's leading scorer Kevin Durant is doubtful, but the Thunder are 3-1 this year without him in the lineup. The Hawks certainly won't miss facing Durant. He's averaged 30.8 points in his last four meetings with the Hawks, the last three of which were Thunder victories. He scored 33 in a 103-94 win over Atlanta on Dec. 31. Atlanta plays nine of its next 10 at home, where it's won 15 of 19. The Hawks, however, have gone 1-6 in their last seven home games against Oklahoma City.
Miami @ San Antonio - ESPN 9:30 p.m.
Miami leads the Southeast Division and is second in the Eastern Conference behind Boston. However, the Spurs own the best overall record and a 5 1/2-game cushion over Dallas in the West. Despite its star-studded lineup, Miami is only 14-16 against teams at or above .500. The team is 0-2 to start a stretch of 11 consecutive games versus teams with winning records, including five against current division leaders and two against San Antonio. The Spurs have had little trouble prevailing when hosting the Heat, taking 21 of 23 all-time. They pounded Miami 108-78 in the most recent meeting in San Antonio in 2009.
Chicago @ Orlando - ESPN 7 p.m.
A pair of furious second-half rallies have the Magic's winning streak at four heading into Friday night's visit from the Central Division-leading Bulls, who hope to put a second-half collapse behind them and avoid their sixth straight loss in Orlando. While Derrick Rose and Dwight Howard are clearly two of the league's top players, much of the success for the Bulls and Magic hinges on how Luol Deng and Jason Richardson, respectively, perform. Chicago is 23-5 when Deng scores 19 points or more, while Orlando is 18-5 when Richardson contributes at least 11 points. The teams have split their previous two meetings this season, both in Chicago.
Oklahoma City @ Atlanta - FSN South 7:30 p.m.
The league's leading scorer Kevin Durant is doubtful, but the Thunder are 3-1 this year without him in the lineup. The Hawks certainly won't miss facing Durant. He's averaged 30.8 points in his last four meetings with the Hawks, the last three of which were Thunder victories. He scored 33 in a 103-94 win over Atlanta on Dec. 31. Atlanta plays nine of its next 10 at home, where it's won 15 of 19. The Hawks, however, have gone 1-6 in their last seven home games against Oklahoma City.
Miami @ San Antonio - ESPN 9:30 p.m.
Miami leads the Southeast Division and is second in the Eastern Conference behind Boston. However, the Spurs own the best overall record and a 5 1/2-game cushion over Dallas in the West. Despite its star-studded lineup, Miami is only 14-16 against teams at or above .500. The team is 0-2 to start a stretch of 11 consecutive games versus teams with winning records, including five against current division leaders and two against San Antonio. The Spurs have had little trouble prevailing when hosting the Heat, taking 21 of 23 all-time. They pounded Miami 108-78 in the most recent meeting in San Antonio in 2009.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
The Matchup 3/3/11
NBA
Orlando @ Miami - TNT 8 p.m.
The Heat, 2nd in the east, began a six-game stretch against likely playoff teams Sunday with a 91-86 loss to New York. They're second in the Eastern Conference, but have matchups looming with San Antonio, Chicago, Portland and the Los Angeles Lakers. Miami hopes the acquisition of point guard Mike Bibby will provide an added boost. Bibby, who reached a buyout agreement Monday with Washington, is expected to be in uniform Thursday. The Magic (39-22), 4th in the East and 4 1/2 games behind the Heat, have lost two of the three matchups this season but have seemed to hit their stride. Orlando has won three straight and five of six after beating visiting New York 116-110 on Tuesday.
Orlando @ Miami - TNT 8 p.m.
The Heat, 2nd in the east, began a six-game stretch against likely playoff teams Sunday with a 91-86 loss to New York. They're second in the Eastern Conference, but have matchups looming with San Antonio, Chicago, Portland and the Los Angeles Lakers. Miami hopes the acquisition of point guard Mike Bibby will provide an added boost. Bibby, who reached a buyout agreement Monday with Washington, is expected to be in uniform Thursday. The Magic (39-22), 4th in the East and 4 1/2 games behind the Heat, have lost two of the three matchups this season but have seemed to hit their stride. Orlando has won three straight and five of six after beating visiting New York 116-110 on Tuesday.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
The Matchup 3/2/11
College Basketball
#13 North Carolina @ Florida State - ESPN 7 p.m.
After a sluggish start to the season, North Carolina may have a chance to win the ACC regular-season crown outright with a victory this weekend over its biggest rival. North Carolina (22-6, 12-2) and Duke are tied atop the ACC and will close out the regular season against one another Saturday in Chapel Hill. Before turning their attention to that showdown, the Tar Heels are first focused on running their winning streak to six at Florida State (20-8, 10-4) on Wednesday night. This will be the Seminoles' final game in Tallahassee this season, and they have a chance to go 8-0 at home in ACC play for the first time in school history. They upset top-ranked Duke at the Tucker Center on Jan. 12, but have lost their last four meetings with the Tar Heels there. North Carolina had no trouble in their first meeting of the season with the Seminoles, beating them 89-69 in Chapel Hill on Feb. 6.
#16 Connecticut @ West Virginia - ESPN2 7 p.m.
There's a four-way tie for seventh place in the powerful Big East. Those teams are desperately trying to avoid playing on the first day of next week's conference tournament. West Virginia and Connecticut are in that group, and they'll meet Wednesday night in Morgantown.The Mountaineers (18-10, 9-7), Huskies (21-7, 9-7), Marquette and Cincinnati are all tied for seventh. The top eight teams avoid playing Tuesday when the Big East tournament begins at Madison Square Garden.Wednesday's action will be pivotal since the Golden Eagles host the Bearcats in a game that begins an hour after this one starts. West Virginia is 10-2 at home but the Huskies have won nine of the last 11 meetings, including four of five on the road.
#22 Texas A&M @ #2 Kansas - ESPN2 9 p.m.
The Jayhawks can clinch a share of the regular-season Big 12 championship with a sixth straight victory over Texas A&M (22-6, 9-5) on Wednesday night at Allen Fieldhouse. Kansas (27-2, 12-2) has won 3 straight since falling to Kansas State on Valentine's day. Though Kansas is 16-1 all-time against the Aggies and won the last five by an average of 12.2 points, Self won't take anything for granted. Texas A&M has won five of six overall and needs a win to secure the No. 3 seed in next week's Big 12 tournament in Kansas City, Mo. The Aggies have dropped nine straight on the road against Top 25 opponents since beating the then-No. 6 Jayhawks 69-66 on Feb. 3, 2007.
NBA
Phoenix @ Boston - NBA TV 7:30 p.m.
Although the Celtics are one of the league's best teams, they have had their share of problems lately facing the Suns. Phoenix has won 3 in a row over Boston including an 88-71 win earlier this season.
Phoenix, despite not being in the top 8 in the West, has played well enough to win 11 of 14 and move into contention for a playoff berth. The Suns have won four in a row overall -- one shy of tying their season high -- and extended their longest road win streak of the season to five Sunday.
#13 North Carolina @ Florida State - ESPN 7 p.m.
After a sluggish start to the season, North Carolina may have a chance to win the ACC regular-season crown outright with a victory this weekend over its biggest rival. North Carolina (22-6, 12-2) and Duke are tied atop the ACC and will close out the regular season against one another Saturday in Chapel Hill. Before turning their attention to that showdown, the Tar Heels are first focused on running their winning streak to six at Florida State (20-8, 10-4) on Wednesday night. This will be the Seminoles' final game in Tallahassee this season, and they have a chance to go 8-0 at home in ACC play for the first time in school history. They upset top-ranked Duke at the Tucker Center on Jan. 12, but have lost their last four meetings with the Tar Heels there. North Carolina had no trouble in their first meeting of the season with the Seminoles, beating them 89-69 in Chapel Hill on Feb. 6.
#16 Connecticut @ West Virginia - ESPN2 7 p.m.
There's a four-way tie for seventh place in the powerful Big East. Those teams are desperately trying to avoid playing on the first day of next week's conference tournament. West Virginia and Connecticut are in that group, and they'll meet Wednesday night in Morgantown.The Mountaineers (18-10, 9-7), Huskies (21-7, 9-7), Marquette and Cincinnati are all tied for seventh. The top eight teams avoid playing Tuesday when the Big East tournament begins at Madison Square Garden.Wednesday's action will be pivotal since the Golden Eagles host the Bearcats in a game that begins an hour after this one starts. West Virginia is 10-2 at home but the Huskies have won nine of the last 11 meetings, including four of five on the road.
#22 Texas A&M @ #2 Kansas - ESPN2 9 p.m.
The Jayhawks can clinch a share of the regular-season Big 12 championship with a sixth straight victory over Texas A&M (22-6, 9-5) on Wednesday night at Allen Fieldhouse. Kansas (27-2, 12-2) has won 3 straight since falling to Kansas State on Valentine's day. Though Kansas is 16-1 all-time against the Aggies and won the last five by an average of 12.2 points, Self won't take anything for granted. Texas A&M has won five of six overall and needs a win to secure the No. 3 seed in next week's Big 12 tournament in Kansas City, Mo. The Aggies have dropped nine straight on the road against Top 25 opponents since beating the then-No. 6 Jayhawks 69-66 on Feb. 3, 2007.
NBA
Phoenix @ Boston - NBA TV 7:30 p.m.
Although the Celtics are one of the league's best teams, they have had their share of problems lately facing the Suns. Phoenix has won 3 in a row over Boston including an 88-71 win earlier this season.
Phoenix, despite not being in the top 8 in the West, has played well enough to win 11 of 14 and move into contention for a playoff berth. The Suns have won four in a row overall -- one shy of tying their season high -- and extended their longest road win streak of the season to five Sunday.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
The Matchup 3/1/11
The Music Mashup
One of my favorite mashup artists, The White Panda just released their latest mixtape, Pandamonium, today. I really enjoy the variety of artists they use in their mixes, with everything from Paul Simon to Dr. Dre to Mike Posner. You can listen to and download the album here.
Premier League
Manchester United @ Chelsea - Fox Soccer Channel 2:45 p.m.
This game is a makeup of a game from December which was postponed due to snow. Stamford Bridge has not been a good place for Man U recently. They have failed to score in five of their last seven Premier League visits and netted only once on each of the other two encounters while winning none and losing five of their last eight matches there. Man U sits at the top of the league while defending champion Chelsea sits just outside the top 4 in 5th.
NBA
New York @ Orlando - NBA TV 7 p.m.
The Magic begin a stretch of three games in four nights against some of the East's top contenders with Tuesday's visit from the Knicks, who bounced back from a loss to the league's worst team by beating one of the best. Orlando beat the Knicks 112-103 at the Amway Center on Dec. 30 behind 24 points and 18 rebounds from Dwight Howard. Carmelo Anthony could help the Knicks get a little revenge. The four-time All-Star averages 28.1 points versus Orlando, his most against any team other than his current club.
San Antonio @ Memphis - SportSouth 8 p.m.
With three-time All Star Tony Parker expected to miss two to four weeks, the Spurs will try for their 19th win in 23 games against the Grizzlies when the teams conclude a home-and-home set Tuesday night at FedExForum. Parker, averaging 17.1 points and a team-best 6.6 assists, strained his left calf in the second quarter of Sunday night's 95-88 win against Memphis. San Antonio has won seven of 10 in Memphis, but the Grizzlies (33-28) have won four straight and 12 of 14 at home and are feeling confident after Sunday's second-half effort. A victory Tuesday for San Antonio, who has the best record in the league, would give the Spurs their 12th consecutive 50-win season.
College Basketball
#20 Vanderbilt @ #23 Kentucky - ESPN 9 p.m.
Kentucky believed it should have won at Vanderbilt earlier this month. Based on their recent history at home overall and against the Commodores, the Wildcats should be confident heading into the rematch.
The No. 20 Wildcats look to extend their home winning streak to 34 games with a fourth consecutive victory at Rupp Arena over the No. 21 Commodores in Tuesday night's SEC contest. Though the Commodores have won six of seven overall and three straight on the road, they have not won at Rupp since Jan. 20, 2007. Kentucky has not lost a home game since falling 90-85 to Georgia on March 4, 2009.
#1 Ohio State @ Penn State - Big Ten Network 9 p.m.
Although the Buckeyes have won five straight on the road over Penn State and 14 consecutive overall matchups, they have lost their last two games outside of Columbus. Penn State has also knocked off three ranked teams at home this season. In addition, the Lions nearly picked up their first road victory of the season over a Top 25 foe at Ohio State's expense Jan. 15, falling just short in a 69-66 loss. Jared Sullinger completed a three-point play with 13.2 seconds left to lift the Buckeyes.
One of my favorite mashup artists, The White Panda just released their latest mixtape, Pandamonium, today. I really enjoy the variety of artists they use in their mixes, with everything from Paul Simon to Dr. Dre to Mike Posner. You can listen to and download the album here.
Premier League
Manchester United @ Chelsea - Fox Soccer Channel 2:45 p.m.
This game is a makeup of a game from December which was postponed due to snow. Stamford Bridge has not been a good place for Man U recently. They have failed to score in five of their last seven Premier League visits and netted only once on each of the other two encounters while winning none and losing five of their last eight matches there. Man U sits at the top of the league while defending champion Chelsea sits just outside the top 4 in 5th.
NBA
New York @ Orlando - NBA TV 7 p.m.
The Magic begin a stretch of three games in four nights against some of the East's top contenders with Tuesday's visit from the Knicks, who bounced back from a loss to the league's worst team by beating one of the best. Orlando beat the Knicks 112-103 at the Amway Center on Dec. 30 behind 24 points and 18 rebounds from Dwight Howard. Carmelo Anthony could help the Knicks get a little revenge. The four-time All-Star averages 28.1 points versus Orlando, his most against any team other than his current club.
San Antonio @ Memphis - SportSouth 8 p.m.
With three-time All Star Tony Parker expected to miss two to four weeks, the Spurs will try for their 19th win in 23 games against the Grizzlies when the teams conclude a home-and-home set Tuesday night at FedExForum. Parker, averaging 17.1 points and a team-best 6.6 assists, strained his left calf in the second quarter of Sunday night's 95-88 win against Memphis. San Antonio has won seven of 10 in Memphis, but the Grizzlies (33-28) have won four straight and 12 of 14 at home and are feeling confident after Sunday's second-half effort. A victory Tuesday for San Antonio, who has the best record in the league, would give the Spurs their 12th consecutive 50-win season.
College Basketball
#20 Vanderbilt @ #23 Kentucky - ESPN 9 p.m.
Kentucky believed it should have won at Vanderbilt earlier this month. Based on their recent history at home overall and against the Commodores, the Wildcats should be confident heading into the rematch.
The No. 20 Wildcats look to extend their home winning streak to 34 games with a fourth consecutive victory at Rupp Arena over the No. 21 Commodores in Tuesday night's SEC contest. Though the Commodores have won six of seven overall and three straight on the road, they have not won at Rupp since Jan. 20, 2007. Kentucky has not lost a home game since falling 90-85 to Georgia on March 4, 2009.
#1 Ohio State @ Penn State - Big Ten Network 9 p.m.
Although the Buckeyes have won five straight on the road over Penn State and 14 consecutive overall matchups, they have lost their last two games outside of Columbus. Penn State has also knocked off three ranked teams at home this season. In addition, the Lions nearly picked up their first road victory of the season over a Top 25 foe at Ohio State's expense Jan. 15, falling just short in a 69-66 loss. Jared Sullinger completed a three-point play with 13.2 seconds left to lift the Buckeyes.
Monday, February 28, 2011
The Matchup 2/28/11
After a loaded weekend in college hoops, we're down to the final week of the regular season, tournament berths and seeding are on the line. Big Monday brings us another top-25 Big East matchup.
College Basketball
#19 Villanova @ #7 Notre Dame
The Irish will try to go undefeated at home for the first time in three years in a matchup with slumping Villanova (21-8, 9-7) on Monday night. Notre Dame (23-5, 12-4) has won nine of its last 10, all of which were Big East games. With a victory Monday, it would secure a double-bye in the conference tournament while staying in the thick of the race for the league title. Villanova is looking to bounce back from its fourth loss in six games. The Wildcats however have won two straight over Notre Dame, the most recent a 90-72 home victory Jan. 27, 2010. Villanova won 77-60 on March 2, 2009 in the teams' last meeting in South Bend.
Enjoy the Kap Slap
College Basketball
#19 Villanova @ #7 Notre Dame
The Irish will try to go undefeated at home for the first time in three years in a matchup with slumping Villanova (21-8, 9-7) on Monday night. Notre Dame (23-5, 12-4) has won nine of its last 10, all of which were Big East games. With a victory Monday, it would secure a double-bye in the conference tournament while staying in the thick of the race for the league title. Villanova is looking to bounce back from its fourth loss in six games. The Wildcats however have won two straight over Notre Dame, the most recent a 90-72 home victory Jan. 27, 2010. Villanova won 77-60 on March 2, 2009 in the teams' last meeting in South Bend.
Enjoy the Kap Slap
Sunday, February 27, 2011
The Matchup 2/27/11
College Basketball
#15 Connecticut @ Cincinnati - ESPNU 12 p.m.
After falling 71-58 at No. 16 Louisville on Feb. 18, and 74-67 in overtime at home to Marquette on Thursday, Connecticut (20-7, 8-7) is in danger of dropping three in a row for the first time this season. Cincinnati (22-6, 9-6), which is ahead of UConn in the league standings and has victories at home over Louisville and at No. 11 Georgetown in the last three games. A win here and the Bearcats can go ahead and book travel plans for their first NCAA appearance in 5 seasons.
#8 Purdue @ Michigan State - ESPN 1 p.m.
Purdue (23-5, 12-3) tries to keep its Big Ten regular season title hopes alive as it goes for its sixth straight win. Michigan State (16-11, 8-7) has regained some confidence since the teams last met in a 86-76 Purdue win at Mackey Arena on Jan. 22. The Boilermakers are looking to sweep the regular-season series against Michigan State for the first time since 1997. Last season's win at the Breslin Center was Purdue's first since 1998. Michigan State looks to stay on track as they look to win 3 straight for the first time since starting the season 3-0.
Xavier @ Dayton - ESPN2 1 p.m.
Xavier (21-6, 12-1) defeated Dayton 81-76 on Jan. 15 to match a conference record with its 34th straight home win. It also was the Musketeers' 26th consecutive victory on its home floor versus the Flyers (19-9, 7-6) since Jan. 10, 1981. Xavier has won 10 of 12 overall in this matchup but has lost its last two visits to Dayton by an average of 19 points. Xavier, currently one-half game ahead of second-place Temple, enters this matchup having won six straight and 13 of 14.
#6 Pittsburgh @ #16 Louisville - CBS 2 p.m.
The Panthers can take a big step toward clinching their first regular season Big East title in 7 years Sunday afternoon by handing the No. 16 Cardinals their first conference loss at the new KFC Yum! Center. Pitt (25-3, 13-2) won its first six league road games before falling 60-59 to St. John's at Madison Square Garden on Feb. 19. Louisville (21-7, 10-5) has little chance to earn the conference's No. 1 seed, but it's in excellent position to earn one of four double-byes heading into the Big East tournament. The last two games of this series have been nail-biters with Pitt winning last season at home in OT and Louisville winning at home in 2009, a game which knocked the Panthers out of the #1 spot in the polls.
NBA
Lakers @ Oklahoma City - ABC 2:30 p.m.
These two division leaders square off Sunday for the second time this season. Los Angeles won the last matchup at home but travel to an Thunder team looking to avoid its first 3-game losing streak of the season and using newly acquired Kendrick Perkins and Nate Robinson for the first time. The addition of Perkins, known as one of the league's top defensive big men, has Los Angeles especially on alert. The Lakers trailed 3-2 in last year's NBA finals before Perkins hurt his knee in Game 6, and the Celtics lost the series in seven.
Memphis @ San Antonio - SportSouth 7 p.m.
The Spurs, who own the NBA's best record, looks for a franchise-record 21st straight home win Sunday against the Grizzlies who were the only team in the past three months to make San Antonio play more than 48 minutes on its home floor. The Spurs are an amazing 27-2 this season at home but Memphis gave them one of their stiffest challenges Dec. 18. The Grizzlies rallied from nine down after three quarters to force overtime before falling 112-106. The Grizzlies will use the newly acquired Shane Battier to fill in for their injured star forward Rudy Gay.
#15 Connecticut @ Cincinnati - ESPNU 12 p.m.
After falling 71-58 at No. 16 Louisville on Feb. 18, and 74-67 in overtime at home to Marquette on Thursday, Connecticut (20-7, 8-7) is in danger of dropping three in a row for the first time this season. Cincinnati (22-6, 9-6), which is ahead of UConn in the league standings and has victories at home over Louisville and at No. 11 Georgetown in the last three games. A win here and the Bearcats can go ahead and book travel plans for their first NCAA appearance in 5 seasons.
#8 Purdue @ Michigan State - ESPN 1 p.m.
Purdue (23-5, 12-3) tries to keep its Big Ten regular season title hopes alive as it goes for its sixth straight win. Michigan State (16-11, 8-7) has regained some confidence since the teams last met in a 86-76 Purdue win at Mackey Arena on Jan. 22. The Boilermakers are looking to sweep the regular-season series against Michigan State for the first time since 1997. Last season's win at the Breslin Center was Purdue's first since 1998. Michigan State looks to stay on track as they look to win 3 straight for the first time since starting the season 3-0.
Xavier @ Dayton - ESPN2 1 p.m.
Xavier (21-6, 12-1) defeated Dayton 81-76 on Jan. 15 to match a conference record with its 34th straight home win. It also was the Musketeers' 26th consecutive victory on its home floor versus the Flyers (19-9, 7-6) since Jan. 10, 1981. Xavier has won 10 of 12 overall in this matchup but has lost its last two visits to Dayton by an average of 19 points. Xavier, currently one-half game ahead of second-place Temple, enters this matchup having won six straight and 13 of 14.
#6 Pittsburgh @ #16 Louisville - CBS 2 p.m.
The Panthers can take a big step toward clinching their first regular season Big East title in 7 years Sunday afternoon by handing the No. 16 Cardinals their first conference loss at the new KFC Yum! Center. Pitt (25-3, 13-2) won its first six league road games before falling 60-59 to St. John's at Madison Square Garden on Feb. 19. Louisville (21-7, 10-5) has little chance to earn the conference's No. 1 seed, but it's in excellent position to earn one of four double-byes heading into the Big East tournament. The last two games of this series have been nail-biters with Pitt winning last season at home in OT and Louisville winning at home in 2009, a game which knocked the Panthers out of the #1 spot in the polls.
NBA
Lakers @ Oklahoma City - ABC 2:30 p.m.
These two division leaders square off Sunday for the second time this season. Los Angeles won the last matchup at home but travel to an Thunder team looking to avoid its first 3-game losing streak of the season and using newly acquired Kendrick Perkins and Nate Robinson for the first time. The addition of Perkins, known as one of the league's top defensive big men, has Los Angeles especially on alert. The Lakers trailed 3-2 in last year's NBA finals before Perkins hurt his knee in Game 6, and the Celtics lost the series in seven.
Memphis @ San Antonio - SportSouth 7 p.m.
The Spurs, who own the NBA's best record, looks for a franchise-record 21st straight home win Sunday against the Grizzlies who were the only team in the past three months to make San Antonio play more than 48 minutes on its home floor. The Spurs are an amazing 27-2 this season at home but Memphis gave them one of their stiffest challenges Dec. 18. The Grizzlies rallied from nine down after three quarters to force overtime before falling 112-106. The Grizzlies will use the newly acquired Shane Battier to fill in for their injured star forward Rudy Gay.
Friday, February 25, 2011
The Matchup 2/25/11
The Top 5
Today's Top 5 is the top 5 awesome Nic Cage clips of all time. I could honestly post 100 of these but i just picked 5 for today.
#5 - Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call - New Orleans: This clip just epitomizes Cage in this movie, a cracked out "bad lieutenant" whom Eva Mendes seems to be fascinated by. Personally I just love the way he talks in this scene and gets so emotionally involved in his story.
#4 - Wicker Man: Nic Cage punches out a girl wearing a bear suit... enough said.
#3 - Vampire's Kiss: A classic from the 80's... Nic Cage legit loses it over the course of this movie. For my favorite part watch from 3:28-4:07. "It never just goes away"
#2 Wicker Man: Again, Wicker Man, voted the "Worst Nic Cage movie of all-time" by some. This scene is pure theatrical gold. Not the bees...
#1 Face/Off: There are no words...
Hope you enjoyed those... On to today's matchup!!
NBA
Oklahoma City @ Orlando - ESPN 8 p.m.
With newly acquired Celtics Kendrick Perkins and Nate Robinson possibly joining the NBA's leading scorer Kevin Durant in the lineup Friday night, the Thunder seek their first win at Orlando in almost seven years. Oklahoma City (36-20) leads the Northwest Division this late in a season for the first time since winning it as the Seattle SuperSonics in 2005. The Magic have split their last 14 games and are coming off Wednesday's 111-105 loss to last-place Sacramento. If Perkins plays the Thunder will have a legitimate player to matchup with All-NBA Center Dwight Howard. He had 39 points and 18 boards in the last meeting with Oklahoma City in January, a game in which the Thunder won by 1.
Denver @ Portland - ESPN 10:30 p.m.
Another day, another big Nuggets game in the Matchup. Portland hosts Denver on Friday night in a matchup of teams separated by only one game in the tight Western Conference standings. The new-look Nuggets (34-25) have won both games since sending Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups to New York. Two nights after beating Memphis 120-107 with a short-handed roster due to the trade they completed earlier Tuesday, the Nuggets knocked off Eastern Conference-leading Boston 89-75 on Thursday behind a strong game from the newly acquired Wilson Chandler and holdover Kenyon Martin. Portland hopes to use its newest acquisition, former All-Star Forward Gerald Wallace, who they acquired Thursday for center Joel Pryzbilla and several reserves. The home team has won the last six meetings in this series, including an 86-83 win for Portland on Nov. 18.
Today's Top 5 is the top 5 awesome Nic Cage clips of all time. I could honestly post 100 of these but i just picked 5 for today.
#5 - Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call - New Orleans: This clip just epitomizes Cage in this movie, a cracked out "bad lieutenant" whom Eva Mendes seems to be fascinated by. Personally I just love the way he talks in this scene and gets so emotionally involved in his story.
#4 - Wicker Man: Nic Cage punches out a girl wearing a bear suit... enough said.
#3 - Vampire's Kiss: A classic from the 80's... Nic Cage legit loses it over the course of this movie. For my favorite part watch from 3:28-4:07. "It never just goes away"
#2 Wicker Man: Again, Wicker Man, voted the "Worst Nic Cage movie of all-time" by some. This scene is pure theatrical gold. Not the bees...
#1 Face/Off: There are no words...
Hope you enjoyed those... On to today's matchup!!
NBA
Oklahoma City @ Orlando - ESPN 8 p.m.
With newly acquired Celtics Kendrick Perkins and Nate Robinson possibly joining the NBA's leading scorer Kevin Durant in the lineup Friday night, the Thunder seek their first win at Orlando in almost seven years. Oklahoma City (36-20) leads the Northwest Division this late in a season for the first time since winning it as the Seattle SuperSonics in 2005. The Magic have split their last 14 games and are coming off Wednesday's 111-105 loss to last-place Sacramento. If Perkins plays the Thunder will have a legitimate player to matchup with All-NBA Center Dwight Howard. He had 39 points and 18 boards in the last meeting with Oklahoma City in January, a game in which the Thunder won by 1.
Denver @ Portland - ESPN 10:30 p.m.
Another day, another big Nuggets game in the Matchup. Portland hosts Denver on Friday night in a matchup of teams separated by only one game in the tight Western Conference standings. The new-look Nuggets (34-25) have won both games since sending Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups to New York. Two nights after beating Memphis 120-107 with a short-handed roster due to the trade they completed earlier Tuesday, the Nuggets knocked off Eastern Conference-leading Boston 89-75 on Thursday behind a strong game from the newly acquired Wilson Chandler and holdover Kenyon Martin. Portland hopes to use its newest acquisition, former All-Star Forward Gerald Wallace, who they acquired Thursday for center Joel Pryzbilla and several reserves. The home team has won the last six meetings in this series, including an 86-83 win for Portland on Nov. 18.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
The Matchup 2/24/11
Lots of NBA trades today at the deadline as contending teams load-up for the playoff push and others try to clear cap-space for free agency with expiring contracts. No game-changing blockbusters today like the D-Will and Carmelo trades, but lots of big names going such as Baron Davis, Gerald Wallace, Moe Williams, Mike Bibby, Shane Battier, Aaron Brooks, Kendrick Perkins, Jeff Green, Nate Robinson, Kirk Heinrich, and many more. Here's what to watch...
NBA
Miami @ Chicago - TNT 8 p.m.
When the Heat and Bulls squared off last month, each team played without significant contributors LeBron James and Joakim Noah respectively. That won't be the case this time around as both teams are at full strength as Noah returned to the Bulls last night in their loss at Toronto. The streaking Heat (42-15) have won 11 of 12, but the Heat have done anything but dominate the NBA's elite. Miami is 1-6 against Boston, Chicago, San Antonio, Dallas and the two-time defending champion Los Angeles Lakers.
Boston @ Denver - TNT 10:30 p.m.
The Nuggets started the post-Carmelo era off well with a victory over Memphis on Tuesday. Defeating the Celtics however, could prove to be a much tougher task. With all of their new acquisitions expected to be available, the Nuggets will look to avoid a fourth loss in five meetings with the Celtics when the teams meet Thursday night at the Pepsi Center. The Celtics will be shorthanded themselves after just completing a trade of their own, sending starting Center Kendrick Perkins and backup PG Nate Robinson to Oklahoma City in exchange for Forward Jeff Green and Center Nenad Kristic. The Celtics won the previous meeting 105-89 in Boston.
College Basketball
#10 Arizona @ USC - FCS Pacific 10:30 p.m.
The 10th-ranked Wildcats will look for a ninth consecutive league victory and fourth in five games versus USC at the Galen Center. It's a shame Arizona hasn't gotten more publicity this season as its climbed into the top ten of the rankings. This is mainly a by-product of them playing most of their games on channels like FCS Pacific and FSN. It's really amazing how much difference ESPN coverage can make in regards to publicity of a team. Needless to say this game is no cake-walk for 'Zona. USC is 10-0 when holding opponents to fewer than 60 points, but it could have trouble slowing down an Arizona team that averages 78.4. The Trojans are 2-1 versus Top 25 teams, the only loss coming Dec. 18 at then-No. 3 Kansas 70-68.
Tomorrow I will start a new feature of the blog... a "top-5" list of clips, involving a specific athlete, artist, actor, etc. As for today enjoy mean disney girls
NBA
Miami @ Chicago - TNT 8 p.m.
When the Heat and Bulls squared off last month, each team played without significant contributors LeBron James and Joakim Noah respectively. That won't be the case this time around as both teams are at full strength as Noah returned to the Bulls last night in their loss at Toronto. The streaking Heat (42-15) have won 11 of 12, but the Heat have done anything but dominate the NBA's elite. Miami is 1-6 against Boston, Chicago, San Antonio, Dallas and the two-time defending champion Los Angeles Lakers.
Boston @ Denver - TNT 10:30 p.m.
The Nuggets started the post-Carmelo era off well with a victory over Memphis on Tuesday. Defeating the Celtics however, could prove to be a much tougher task. With all of their new acquisitions expected to be available, the Nuggets will look to avoid a fourth loss in five meetings with the Celtics when the teams meet Thursday night at the Pepsi Center. The Celtics will be shorthanded themselves after just completing a trade of their own, sending starting Center Kendrick Perkins and backup PG Nate Robinson to Oklahoma City in exchange for Forward Jeff Green and Center Nenad Kristic. The Celtics won the previous meeting 105-89 in Boston.
College Basketball
#10 Arizona @ USC - FCS Pacific 10:30 p.m.
The 10th-ranked Wildcats will look for a ninth consecutive league victory and fourth in five games versus USC at the Galen Center. It's a shame Arizona hasn't gotten more publicity this season as its climbed into the top ten of the rankings. This is mainly a by-product of them playing most of their games on channels like FCS Pacific and FSN. It's really amazing how much difference ESPN coverage can make in regards to publicity of a team. Needless to say this game is no cake-walk for 'Zona. USC is 10-0 when holding opponents to fewer than 60 points, but it could have trouble slowing down an Arizona team that averages 78.4. The Trojans are 2-1 versus Top 25 teams, the only loss coming Dec. 18 at then-No. 3 Kansas 70-68.
Tomorrow I will start a new feature of the blog... a "top-5" list of clips, involving a specific athlete, artist, actor, etc. As for today enjoy mean disney girls
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
The Matchup 2/23/11
Another blockbuster NBA trade just went down today as All-Star PG Deron Williams got shipped from Utah to the Nets for PG Devin Harris last years 1st-round pick Derrick Favors & 2 future 1st-round picks. This trade caught almost everyone completely off-guard. There had been talks of Williams being shopped around but no where near the circus surrounding Carmelo Anthony's trade to the Knicks just a few days ago. I believe this trade will work out great for New Jersey as they finally get owner Mikhail Prokhorov a superstar to build around. Utah in exchange gets building blocks to work around and hopefully enough to maintain a spot in the playoff race.
Champions League
Bayern Munich @ Inter Milan - Fox Soccer Channel - 5 p.m.
Some of the top offensive players in the world square off as Dutch world cup heroes Wesley Sneijder & Arjen Robben face each other for Inter & Bayern respectively. This should be a terrific match between Italy and Germany's best club squads.
NCAA Basketball
#12 Wisconsin @ Michigan - Big Ten Network - 6:30 p.m.
Wisconsin continues to have great success at home. The bigger challenge for the Badgers, who are in third place in the Big Ten, will be carrying that success away from Madison. Wisconsin is 3-5 on the road, where it's averaging 11.7 fewer points than at home. A big reason for the difference is the team's 3-point shooting. At the Kohl Center, the Badgers are connecting on 44.3 percent of their shots from beyond the arc while on the road they are hitting 31.4 percent. Michigan's star guard Tim Hardaway Jr. is starting to play like his dad, dropping 30 points in his last game.
#24 Temple @ #1 Duke - ESPN2 - 7 p.m.
The defending national champions clearly have a big advantage playing at home. Besides having won 34 in a row at Cameron overall, the Blue Devils have won 85 straight there against non-conference foes since a loss to St. John's on Feb. 26, 2000. However, the Owls (21-5) have been tough against non-conference foes currently in the Top 25, beating Georgetown and losing to Texas A&M and Villanova by a combined seven points. The Owls have since won a season-high eight straight, the last five by double digits.
#22 Kentucky @ Arkansas - SEC Network - 8 p.m.
Kentucky is just 1-5 away from Rupp Arena in Southeastern Conference play heading into Wednesday's game at Arkansas (16-10, 5-7). Arkansas, coached by former Kentucky star John Pelphrey, is no pushover at home. The Razorbacks are 14-3 at Bud Walton Arena, including victories over Tennessee and Alabama. Yet Arkansas has its own issues. Pelphrey is 0-3 against his alma mater and the Razorbacks haven't beaten Kentucky in their last 10 tries.
NBA
Oklahoma City @ San Antonio - ESPN - 7 p.m.
Playing at home for the first time in nearly a month, the Spurs emerge from the All-Star break Wednesday night looking to defeat Kevin Durant and the Thunder for a sixth straight time. League-best San Antonio (46-10) leads Dallas by six games atop the Western Conference with 26 to play.
Champions League
Bayern Munich @ Inter Milan - Fox Soccer Channel - 5 p.m.
Some of the top offensive players in the world square off as Dutch world cup heroes Wesley Sneijder & Arjen Robben face each other for Inter & Bayern respectively. This should be a terrific match between Italy and Germany's best club squads.
NCAA Basketball
#12 Wisconsin @ Michigan - Big Ten Network - 6:30 p.m.
Wisconsin continues to have great success at home. The bigger challenge for the Badgers, who are in third place in the Big Ten, will be carrying that success away from Madison. Wisconsin is 3-5 on the road, where it's averaging 11.7 fewer points than at home. A big reason for the difference is the team's 3-point shooting. At the Kohl Center, the Badgers are connecting on 44.3 percent of their shots from beyond the arc while on the road they are hitting 31.4 percent. Michigan's star guard Tim Hardaway Jr. is starting to play like his dad, dropping 30 points in his last game.
#24 Temple @ #1 Duke - ESPN2 - 7 p.m.
The defending national champions clearly have a big advantage playing at home. Besides having won 34 in a row at Cameron overall, the Blue Devils have won 85 straight there against non-conference foes since a loss to St. John's on Feb. 26, 2000. However, the Owls (21-5) have been tough against non-conference foes currently in the Top 25, beating Georgetown and losing to Texas A&M and Villanova by a combined seven points. The Owls have since won a season-high eight straight, the last five by double digits.
#22 Kentucky @ Arkansas - SEC Network - 8 p.m.
Kentucky is just 1-5 away from Rupp Arena in Southeastern Conference play heading into Wednesday's game at Arkansas (16-10, 5-7). Arkansas, coached by former Kentucky star John Pelphrey, is no pushover at home. The Razorbacks are 14-3 at Bud Walton Arena, including victories over Tennessee and Alabama. Yet Arkansas has its own issues. Pelphrey is 0-3 against his alma mater and the Razorbacks haven't beaten Kentucky in their last 10 tries.
NBA
Oklahoma City @ San Antonio - ESPN - 7 p.m.
Playing at home for the first time in nearly a month, the Spurs emerge from the All-Star break Wednesday night looking to defeat Kevin Durant and the Thunder for a sixth straight time. League-best San Antonio (46-10) leads Dallas by six games atop the Western Conference with 26 to play.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
The Matchup 2/22/11
NBA
Memphis @ Denver - SportSouth 9 p.m.
If the Nuggets drop out of a playoff spot, the Grizzlies could benefit. Memphis won four in a row and nine of 11 heading into the All-Star break to climb back into the playoff picture and sits just one game behind Denver for 7th place. Denver's roster will be depleted for this game as it will be forced to play without both the players they've traded away and received for this game as the trade is still being finalized. However, Memphis has struggled mightily in Denver, losing seven straight on the Nuggets' home floor, and only once in their past 25 tries. The Grizz will also be without its second-leading scorer Rudy Gay, who is out for a month with a separated shoulder.
College Basketball
Tennessee @ Vanderbilt - ESPN 9 p.m.
The Vols are playing their third straight road game against a ranked team. They've dropped their last six such matchups since upsetting then-No. 1 Memphis on Feb. 23, 2008. Vanderbilt will look to avenge their loss earlier this season in Knoxville and add to their current 5-game winning streak.
Now go get money like Pantyraid
Monday, February 21, 2011
The Matchup 2/21/11
Well this weekend was quite eventful. One of Knoxville's own, Trevor Bayne, became the youngest driver in history to win the Daytona 500. Blake Griffin jumped over a car to win a truly amazing dunk contest (although I don't think it was the best dunk... check the Ibaka, DeRozan, and McGee dunks on the countdown if you don't believe me).
As for me I was here
College Basketball
#20 Syracuse @ #14 Villanova - ESPN 7 p.m.
Villanova (21-6, 9-5 Big East) won for the fourth time in five matchups with Syracuse (22-6, 9-6) on Jan. 22, making 11 of 24 3-pointers in an 83-72 win at the Carrier Dome. But the Wildcats will likely be without their second-leading scorer Corey Stokes for the fourth straight game. Both teams escaped this weekend in close games against Rutgers and DePaul.
As for me I was here
College Basketball
#20 Syracuse @ #14 Villanova - ESPN 7 p.m.
Villanova (21-6, 9-5 Big East) won for the fourth time in five matchups with Syracuse (22-6, 9-6) on Jan. 22, making 11 of 24 3-pointers in an 83-72 win at the Carrier Dome. But the Wildcats will likely be without their second-leading scorer Corey Stokes for the fourth straight game. Both teams escaped this weekend in close games against Rutgers and DePaul.
Friday, February 18, 2011
The Matchup 2/18/11
Well it's Friday on a relatively light sports weekend in terms of games due to the NBA All-Star game. Today's lone prime-time game is another top-25 war between Big East teams
College Basketball
#12 Connecticut @ #16 Louisville - ESPN 9 p.m.
These two teams are very evenly matched, the Cardinals won by 1 in Connecticut (20-5, 8-5) a few weeks ago and the Huskies and player of the year candidate Kemba Walker will be shooting for revenge tonight. Louisville (19-7, 8-5) is 6-0 at home in Big East play, and will be looking to bounce back from a 63-54 loss at Cincinnati on Wednesday.
College Basketball
#12 Connecticut @ #16 Louisville - ESPN 9 p.m.
These two teams are very evenly matched, the Cardinals won by 1 in Connecticut (20-5, 8-5) a few weeks ago and the Huskies and player of the year candidate Kemba Walker will be shooting for revenge tonight. Louisville (19-7, 8-5) is 6-0 at home in Big East play, and will be looking to bounce back from a 63-54 loss at Cincinnati on Wednesday.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
The Matchup 2/17/11
It's 70 degrees in mid-February here in Knoxville, therefore I'm having a great day. The Detroit Tigers' Miguel Cabrera on the other hand is not... According to his arrest report Cabrera's car was on the side of the road, his engine smoking, when a deputy pulled over to assist. With bloodshoot eyes and slurred speech, "I am going to (expletive) kill him," Cabrera is quoted as saying. The deputy saw no one else in the vehicle or in the area. Cabrera, of Boca Raton, grabbed a bottle of James Buchanan's scotch and started drinking. The lesson is, as always, DON'T DRINK AND DRIVE... especially don't drink scotch in front of the officer while seated in your car. On to the matchup! NBA
San Antonio @ Chicago - TNT 8 p.m.
These two teams own the best records in the NBA since Christmas at 21-5 and 19-6 respectively. The Spurs, who hold the NBA's best record wrap up their game nine-game rodeo road trip at the United Center in Chicago, facing an electric Bulls team which sits atop the Central division led by star PG Derrick Rose and PF Carlos Boozer. The Spurs won the first meeting 103-94 in San Antonio.
Dallas @ Phoenix - TNT 10:30 p.m.
The red-hot Mavericks travel to Phoenix to take on a Suns team fighting to stay in playoff contention led by veteran PG Steve Nash. Dallas has won 12 of its last 13 games and is climbing the Western Conference Standings. Phoenix will look to use veterans Vince Carter & Grant Hill to keep them in this game. The Mavericks won the first meeting by 15 in Dallas.
Edward Maya's Stereo Love vs Waka Flocka's No Hands
The Roo
Bonnaroo 2011
Growing up in Middle Tennessee I've always been a fan and a follower of the Bonnaroo Muisc and Arts Festival. Surprisingly, despite it taking place just 30 minutes from my hometown, last year was my first time going and I had an AMAZING time. I certainly plan on attending the festival regularly in the future. Overall this is a great lineup, but it doesn't knock me off my feet. That could also be because I'm not a huge fan of the two biggest headliners in Arcade Fire or Eminem, as opposed to last year when it was DMB, Jay-Z, and Kings of Leon. However, the festival does offer something for everyone from legendary jam bands like Widespread Panic, String Cheese Incident, and STS9, to Grammy stars The Black Keys, Mumford & Sons, and a reunited Buffalo Springfield. There's a good share of dance music too between Pretty Lights, Ratatat, Girl Talk, Florence + the Machine, and Bassnectar. My Morning Jacket also makes an appearance, along with rap stars Lil Wayne, Big Boi, and Wiz Khalifa.
In my opinion the rappers are some of the most intriguing acts, especially Lil Wayne. Sure, he's a headliner and a major star, but how often do you get to see him in a festival setting? With a crowd that size and a sound system of that magnitude at his disposal (not to mention an exceptionally mellow crowd), Lil Wayne could turn in a transcendent performance... or it could be a disaster like Kanye West in 2008. Any way you look at it though, if you love music and don't mind the festival setting and atmosphere, this year's Bonnaroo lineup is as good as any. If you go you will not be disappointed. There is no other festival that brings together this many quality acts across all genres of music.
Growing up in Middle Tennessee I've always been a fan and a follower of the Bonnaroo Muisc and Arts Festival. Surprisingly, despite it taking place just 30 minutes from my hometown, last year was my first time going and I had an AMAZING time. I certainly plan on attending the festival regularly in the future. Overall this is a great lineup, but it doesn't knock me off my feet. That could also be because I'm not a huge fan of the two biggest headliners in Arcade Fire or Eminem, as opposed to last year when it was DMB, Jay-Z, and Kings of Leon. However, the festival does offer something for everyone from legendary jam bands like Widespread Panic, String Cheese Incident, and STS9, to Grammy stars The Black Keys, Mumford & Sons, and a reunited Buffalo Springfield. There's a good share of dance music too between Pretty Lights, Ratatat, Girl Talk, Florence + the Machine, and Bassnectar. My Morning Jacket also makes an appearance, along with rap stars Lil Wayne, Big Boi, and Wiz Khalifa.
In my opinion the rappers are some of the most intriguing acts, especially Lil Wayne. Sure, he's a headliner and a major star, but how often do you get to see him in a festival setting? With a crowd that size and a sound system of that magnitude at his disposal (not to mention an exceptionally mellow crowd), Lil Wayne could turn in a transcendent performance... or it could be a disaster like Kanye West in 2008. Any way you look at it though, if you love music and don't mind the festival setting and atmosphere, this year's Bonnaroo lineup is as good as any. If you go you will not be disappointed. There is no other festival that brings together this many quality acts across all genres of music.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
The Matchup 2/16/11
Today is a loaded sports day with perhaps the most intriguing Champions League game yet this year, and some big time college basketball games. Oh yeah, and the release of the SI Swimsuit Issue! Champions League
FC Barcelona @ Arsenal - Fox Soccer Channel 2:45 p.m.
The last time these two teams played in the Quarterfinals of the Champions League last year Lionel Messi, the FIFA World Player of the year, scored 4 goals in Barça's defeat of Arsenal. This year they square off in the round of 16 in a match between two of Europe's most prestigious squads.
College Basketball
#10 Wisconsin @ #11 Purdue - Big Ten Network 6:30 p.m.
Wisconsin will be looking to take the momentum from it's win over former #1 Ohio State on Saturday into this game. These two teams have nearly identical records (19-5 & 20-5 respectively, while both sit at 9-3 in the Big Ten). While Wisconsin has been dominant at home, only losing one game there this year, they have only won two times in the past 38 years at Purdue.
#16 Louisville @ Cincinnati - ESPN 7 p.m.
These two rivals always play tough physical, usually low-scoring, games against each other. Expect this game to be no different as Cincinnati tries to improve its tournament resume. Louisville will look to take revenge for the ouster the Bearcats put on them in the Big East tournament last year.
#9 Georgetown @ #12 Connecticut - Big East Network 7 p.m.
Georgetown has reeled off 8 wins in a row while climbing to 3rd in the conference. UConn is only 7-5 in conference while ranked 12th which speaks to how strong the Big East is.
#18 Vanderbilt @ Georgia - ESPNU 7 p.m.
These two are tied for 2nd in the SEC East behind Florida. Vanderbilt has lost all three of its road games against SEC East teams, losing to Tennessee, South Carolina, and Florida by a combined 15 points. Vanderbilt won the last meeting in Nashville by 7 points.
NBA
Atlanta @ New York - SportSouth 7:30 p.m.
The Knicks have suffered two nine-point losses to Atlanta and the last meeting featured a fight heading into Wednesday night's game at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks have faded since their fast start, meanwhile the Hawks look to stay ahead of Orlando for 4th in the East.
Bonnaroo lineup analysis coming tonight...
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
The Matchup 2/15/11
Not a whole lot in the way of great basketball on tonight, Ohio State should bounce back easily at home against Tom Izzo's spartans, as should Kentucky against Mississippi State, so today's matchup focuses solely on a terrific UEFA champions league game.
Champions League
Tottenham @ AC Milan - Fox Soccer Channel - 2:45 p.m.
AC Milan has returned to the top of Italian football, leading the league, after acquiring stars Zlatan Ibrahimovic & Robinho. English side Tottenham on the other hand has injury problems missing Gareth Bale who had a hat trick the last time Tottenham came to Milan (albeit, against Inter). Tottenham has scored a Champions League high 18 goals, but have also had a tendency to give them up at the other end. All in all this should be a tremendous game to watch if you like soccer and get FSC (only an extra $5 a month through Comcast's sports package). Champions League play is the best European club football has to offer, and this knockout round match should provide ample entertainment if you "fancy the football."
Bonnaroo Lineup
The 2011 'Roo lineup came out this morning. You can check out the full lineup here. I'll give a rundown and analysis of it tomorrow, as I'm crunched on time today. In the mean time, enjoy Conan.
Champions League
Tottenham @ AC Milan - Fox Soccer Channel - 2:45 p.m.
Bonnaroo Lineup
The 2011 'Roo lineup came out this morning. You can check out the full lineup here. I'll give a rundown and analysis of it tomorrow, as I'm crunched on time today. In the mean time, enjoy Conan.
Monday, February 14, 2011
The Matchup 2/14/11
Valentine's day is a time for love, unless you're Justin Bieber or Lady GaGa and you're wondering why you got shut out of the GRAMMYs last night. I guess they didn't follow the four chords rule.
Today's matchup features one team that's really feeling the LOVE, and another that really should be.
Premier League
Chelsea @ Fulham - ESPN2 2:30 p.m.
That's right, Premier League football (soccer for us on this side of the pond) is gaining loads of viewership steam in America since the 2010 World Cup, and ESPN has picked up many more Premier League telecasts than before. While Fulham isn't one of the Premier League's "premier" teams, it boasts perhaps America's finest player in Clint Dempsey, which is why they should feel your love this Valentine's day. Seeing Chelsea's new prize striker Fernando Torres in his second cap is a nice incentive to watch as well.
College Basketball
#1 Kansas @ Kansas State - ESPN 9 p.m.
Kansas felt the love in a big way in the polls this week jumping to number 1 with Ohio State's first loss, and despite being 2nd in the Big 12 to #2 Texas, they're number 1 in the hearts of voters. They travel to Manhattan to face a Kansas State team that has failed to live up to its lofty expectations this year, but you better believe Bramlage Coliseum will be rocking tonight.
Today's matchup features one team that's really feeling the LOVE, and another that really should be.
Premier League
Chelsea @ Fulham - ESPN2 2:30 p.m.
That's right, Premier League football (soccer for us on this side of the pond) is gaining loads of viewership steam in America since the 2010 World Cup, and ESPN has picked up many more Premier League telecasts than before. While Fulham isn't one of the Premier League's "premier" teams, it boasts perhaps America's finest player in Clint Dempsey, which is why they should feel your love this Valentine's day. Seeing Chelsea's new prize striker Fernando Torres in his second cap is a nice incentive to watch as well.
College Basketball
#1 Kansas @ Kansas State - ESPN 9 p.m.
Kansas felt the love in a big way in the polls this week jumping to number 1 with Ohio State's first loss, and despite being 2nd in the Big 12 to #2 Texas, they're number 1 in the hearts of voters. They travel to Manhattan to face a Kansas State team that has failed to live up to its lofty expectations this year, but you better believe Bramlage Coliseum will be rocking tonight.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
The Matchup 2/13/11
NBA
Miami @ Boston - ABC 1 p.m.
Oh you know, just your typical regular season NBA game... First place in the Eastern Conference on the line, as well as Miami's NBA best winning streak, not to mention they're 0-2 vs Boston this season, and this is the team which knocked both Miami & the LeBron's (okay, Cavs) out of the playoffs last year, and this has must-see TV written all over it.
Lakers @ Orlando - ABC 3:30 p.m.
ABC did a terrific job in picking its matchups for the day as it brings the defending champs out in a rematch of the 2009 NBA Finals. The Lakers are riding a 4 game winning streak that Dwight Howard, J-Rich & co. will try to snap.
College Basketball
#12 Purdue @ Illinois - CBS 1 p.m.
Illinois is 11-1 at home while 12th ranked Purdue, who is undefeated at home, has lost 4 in a row on the road. Illinois probably needs this win more from a tournament position perspective as it was ranked most of the season before losing 5 of 7, but Purdue has to prove it can win on the road for it to be a factor in March.
#5 Duke @ Miami (FL) - Fox Sports Net 6:45 p.m.
Duke has won 10 of 11 vs Miami since they joined the ACC, but Miami played the Blue Devils relatively tight in Cameron earlier this season and are certainly not pushovers as Nolan Smith looks to make a serious push for National Player of the Year.
The GRAMMYs - CBS 8 p.m.
Eminem is a favorite for album of the year, but faces strong competition from her Poker Face, and Katy Perry... Maybe we'll get more of this...
Saturday, February 12, 2011
The Matchup 2/12/11
Saturdays in February only bring so much to the table. It's still freezing, and the only sport worth watching on TV (sorry hockey) is basketball. Fortunately, today's college basketball schedule holds several marquee matchups. Let's get to the schedule:
#13 Syracuse @ #15 Louisville - ESPN Noon
The Big East is the best conference in the country bar none, and anytime two of their top six teams square off, it's a must-see.
Temple @ Dayton - ESPNU 1 p.m.
At 17-5 Temple is ranked in the AP poll, and is a half-game out of the lead in the always-competitive A-10. Dayton has one of the better home courts in the league, having already beaten other mid-major powers New Mexico & George Mason there this year.
#18 Kentucky @ #24 Vanderbilt - CBS 1 p.m.
Every SEC team gives Kentucky their best shot on its home court (see Alabama, Ole Miss, Florida) and Vandy will be no exception. Memorial Gym has been home to some memorable games between these two teams over the years, expect this one to join the list.
#1 Ohio State @ #14 Wisconsin - ESPN 2 p.m.
These two have played some huge games where both of them have been highly ranked (#1 vs #2 in 2007) and expect the Kohl Center to be rocking as the only undefeated team in the country comes to town.
Tennessee @ #19 Florida - ESPN 6 p.m.
It's the Vols game... obviously, but Florida escaped with an overtime win in Knoxville earlier this season, and has since added to it's SEC East lead. Bruce Pearl can win in tough environments so Tennessee should have its chances.
#6 San Diego State @ UNLV - CBS College Sports 8 p.m.
SDSU has crushed most of it's opponents this year in rolling to a 24-1 record, but UNLV was not one of them as the Aztecs played one of its closest games of the season at home against the Runnin Rebels a month ago today. UNLV will be ready to play tonight in Vegas.
#4 Pittsburgh @ #10 Villanova - ESPN 9 p.m.
It's Gameday's first trip to The Pavilion, Villanova's small on-campus arena which they haven't lost in since 2007. You know it will be rocking for this top-ten matchup between the interstate rivals which has only gotten testier since the epic 2009 Elite Eight game. Enjoy this and the rest of your Saturday. We're not too far away from March...
#13 Syracuse @ #15 Louisville - ESPN Noon
The Big East is the best conference in the country bar none, and anytime two of their top six teams square off, it's a must-see.
Temple @ Dayton - ESPNU 1 p.m.
At 17-5 Temple is ranked in the AP poll, and is a half-game out of the lead in the always-competitive A-10. Dayton has one of the better home courts in the league, having already beaten other mid-major powers New Mexico & George Mason there this year.
#18 Kentucky @ #24 Vanderbilt - CBS 1 p.m.
Every SEC team gives Kentucky their best shot on its home court (see Alabama, Ole Miss, Florida) and Vandy will be no exception. Memorial Gym has been home to some memorable games between these two teams over the years, expect this one to join the list.
#1 Ohio State @ #14 Wisconsin - ESPN 2 p.m.
These two have played some huge games where both of them have been highly ranked (#1 vs #2 in 2007) and expect the Kohl Center to be rocking as the only undefeated team in the country comes to town.
Tennessee @ #19 Florida - ESPN 6 p.m.
It's the Vols game... obviously, but Florida escaped with an overtime win in Knoxville earlier this season, and has since added to it's SEC East lead. Bruce Pearl can win in tough environments so Tennessee should have its chances.
#6 San Diego State @ UNLV - CBS College Sports 8 p.m.
SDSU has crushed most of it's opponents this year in rolling to a 24-1 record, but UNLV was not one of them as the Aztecs played one of its closest games of the season at home against the Runnin Rebels a month ago today. UNLV will be ready to play tonight in Vegas.
#4 Pittsburgh @ #10 Villanova - ESPN 9 p.m.
It's Gameday's first trip to The Pavilion, Villanova's small on-campus arena which they haven't lost in since 2007. You know it will be rocking for this top-ten matchup between the interstate rivals which has only gotten testier since the epic 2009 Elite Eight game. Enjoy this and the rest of your Saturday. We're not too far away from March...
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