Posted by Ironcity on February 9, 2008 at 5:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Shot 31% from the field 27% from the line. How did we win this game??? I was unable to see this because we had the UGA feed in Atl.. It looks like
Prince is hitting a wall right now. Howell has been just awful the last 6 weeks. Its really inexcusable that Chism and Prince can't get their FT%'s to at least 50%. They are true liabilities at the end of the game. What happened to JuJuan that he was not in until the steal?

Posted by VolBall on February 9, 2008 at 5:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Whew! Free throws, free throws, free throws... J.P. and Chism have got to work it out at the line. NO excuse for such horrible free throw shooting.

But, how about JuJuan's steal and lay up!

Coach Pearl did a great job with some X's and O's out of time outs. And, he substituted JuJuan in for defense prior to the great steal.

GO VOLS!!

Posted by pupvol on February 9, 2008 at 5:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

jajuan"s had the flu. played in first half. team looked sluggish,not sharp.gotta work like heck!

Posted by BigMikeUT on February 9, 2008 at 5:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

That was as ugly a win as you'll ever see in college basketball. Their length gave us fits, they blocked shots and almost every interior pass we attempted was deflected or stolen. JuJuan had the flu so he didn't play a whole lot, and when he did play it was pretty obvious that he wasn't feeling well (he airballed a couple 3's), but when we needed him the most he came up huge for us. Fortunately for us LSU has no real offensive threats, you have to give them credit for playing great defense though. Ugly win, but 21-2 is 21-2. Big game against Arkansas coming up!

Posted by VolBall on February 9, 2008 at 5:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Ironcity, I admit that I watched the whole game. It was ugly. You're right, Prince and Howell are both playing awful lately. I'm not sure why JuJuan didn't see more minutes.

LSU's length on defense gave us problems, and they seemed to get every bounce on loose balls the entire game.

We were fortunate to get out of there with a win.

Posted by jdcdjc on February 9, 2008 at 5:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm not saying anything profound, but free throws are going to be our downfall.

Posted by tuckepk on February 9, 2008 at 5:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Coughed up another double digit lead in the second half with turnovers and pitiful free throw shooting down the stretch. Vols looked as bad today as the looked good against UF. They'll have to perk up against Arkansas with their big front line. Unlike UF and LSU, the Arkansans are not freshmen & sophomores.

Posted by TommyJack on February 9, 2008 at 5:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

On radio it sounded like Pearl just flat took this one away from LSU.

Posted by wewhite on February 9, 2008 at 5:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

A disturbing trend recently has been the five-minute dry spell with about 10 minutes left in the game. I suspect that this is due to the guys on the court hitting the wall stamina-wise. I know that in close games Bruce wants to keep all his best in, but letting them "rest" on the court while the other team eats up a double-digit lead doesn't seem to be working. We've been L-U-C-K-Y to win the past few. I'd rather Bruce take random chance of the equation.

And, looking up at the most popular stories on GoVolsXtra, I notice No. 9 (at this moment): "Pearl: Avoid Foul Behavior." Apparently there are some players that failed to get that message.

Posted by grvol on February 9, 2008 at 5:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It was like watching the football team play a lesser team. Maybe they are hanging out too much with Fulmer and company. Howell needs to transfer to Carson Newman. Don't get too excited because this type of performance we'll see in the tournament. I've been a Vol BB fan for 40 years.

Posted by akkdowl on February 9, 2008 at 5:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Had to follow this game on ESPN Gamecast. It must have been one ugly SOB of a game. Hopefully this is our one ugly game of the year.

Posted by andy112382 on February 9, 2008 at 5:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Oh good grief grvol, hold off the jabs at the football team for cryin' out loud.....even if we won a national title people would still take jabs at'em.

I love the fact this team will find a way to win, good day or bad day on the hardwood. You may have been watching them for 40 years, but you haven't seen a Tennessee bball team quite like this, so that point was moot. Good win, sloppy, but a win is a win!

GO VOLS!!!

Posted by volguy615 on February 9, 2008 at 5:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

free throws did hurt tremendously, but i have been in street fights that were not that rough. even the announcers on tv, (one an lsu grad) talked about it. i am just thankful we got out of there with a win.

Posted by pms151 on February 9, 2008 at 5:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Pearl did take it away. After the 14 min mark or so the players just could do nothing. Chalk this one up to Coach.

Posted by volguy615 on February 9, 2008 at 5:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

you r swo right andy

Posted by grvol on February 9, 2008 at 5:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I hope you're right Andy.

Posted by akkdowl on February 9, 2008 at 5:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

As most of us have said several times this year. This is a game we would have lost a few years ago. We find a way to win baby. That's the bottom line.

Posted by txsvol on February 9, 2008 at 5:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Winning ugly is much better than losing prettily! See why the cognoscenti feared this game? We're one lucky basketball team this afternoon! Go Vols! SAVol

Posted by grvol on February 9, 2008 at 5:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Need to keep em on the floor and run run run.

Posted by BigManVolFan on February 9, 2008 at 5:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Is the only thing our boys work on in practice is 3 point shooting and full court pressure?

They SUCK at the free throw line....This far into the season they should be alot better but instead they have gotten worse!!

We only have 3 guys on the team who are reliable at the line..T. Smith, Chris Lofton, and J. Smith....

Lady Luck was on our side today gentlemen.

And another thing...why are we constantly out-blocked every game...it seems like every team we play blocks 7-10 of our shots?

Posted by ggriggs939 on February 9, 2008 at 5:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I still wonder how the baskets were rigged so that when the VOLS shot, the ball always rebounded off the rim, but when LSU shot, the ball stuck to the rim until it rolled in the hoop.
I was fearful the Tigers had bought one for Brady's retirement gift.

Posted by yeavols on February 9, 2008 at 5:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The Vol LSU game was on Yahoo sports feed audio or full internet visual broadcast..in Atlanta the Georgia Florida game was on Raycom. I was able to enjoy the student section jump and down for nothing. A win is a win..defense prevailed, sloppy at times, but LSU was playing for all the marbles. I enjoyed it. GO VOLS!!!

Posted by utchris2003 on February 9, 2008 at 5:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Sometimes things just do not go right and you have to just gut out a win. There never was a flow to the game. Both team looked liked they were playing with a wet noodle. Thank goodness for Chris Lofton. Even the TV feed was bad; even more realized when I flipped over to ESPN during a break. Now back to the confines of TBA. That loss for LSU probably just set a tone for the rest of their season. I am sure Coach Pearl and the boys will get some rest, get healthy, and be ready for the Backs on Tuesday night.

Posted by volfaninchattanooga on February 9, 2008 at 5:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Ugly game, no intensity after the 10 minute mark in the second half, and we just simply made some stupid passes. I'm glad we have athleticism and talent, because we sure don't play very smart. Blew a big lead with some awful decisions on the offensive end that allowed LSU to get back into the game. Great game defensvely though, we really played hard on the defensive end of the floor. J.P Prince and Jordan Howell are not helping us much right now. Howell cannot hit on the road, and Prince is a hot dog that really can't shoot very well. I'm still suprised we won this game. It was one ugly one to watch. Pearl is magnificient. Great calls out of the time-outs.

Posted by pms151 on February 9, 2008 at 5:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

You got it right txsvol. Also great spelling on 'prettily'. Never even used the word. LOL.

Posted by bshell12 on February 9, 2008 at 5:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Howell had the flu today as well as Jujuan evidently Jujuan had 102 temp before the game....on the post game interview bruce was angry about offense continuity....J.P. Prince is the reason, he only looks for himself wont rebound on the defense boards, always runs down the court right after an opponents shot. Tabb is a player who is great on defense and looks to make other people better unlike the selfish JP

Posted by fundamentals83 on February 9, 2008 at 5:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Wow,
What a game. 47 points and a win. Kinda looked like more than JuJuan had the flu, several were dragging around and lacking energy.

Posted by pms151 on February 9, 2008 at 6:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

bigmanvol,
You play with the talent you recruit for your system. CBP recruits for speed, quickness and intensity. They practice that way and play that way. I agree that FT shooting is important but we are where we are because of CBP's style of play. Would you rather be .500 in the SEC with an 80% FT or where we are now. The 5* players are starting to notice us and will start to filter in. We as fans have to realize that this is new territory for us as well and buy into CBP's decision making. Go Vols.

Posted by akkdowl on February 9, 2008 at 6:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I think JP has a great upside but BP needs to sit him down and let Tabb take his minutes for a few games. I think BP may have made a deal with the devil in order to get JP to transfer here. There is a reason Arizona didn't object when he wanted to transfer. BP also sees his potential though and will get him in line in time for March Madness.

Posted by jerrywroberts on February 9, 2008 at 6:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

We have put up with this Pearl guy way to long,it's time we clean house and get us a real coach. Sounds like we have some good candidates here on these post.

Posted by martinvolfan on February 9, 2008 at 6:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree with the JP assessment. He tries too much to make the highlight reels instead of playing team basketball. JP looked horrible on the FT line. Glad for a close W rather than a close L. Go Vols beat the piggies!

Posted by bshell12 on February 9, 2008 at 6:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Amen Pac, Amen

Posted by martinvolfan on February 9, 2008 at 6:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree with the JP assessment. He tries too much to make the highlight reels instead of playing team basketball. JP looked horrible on the FT line. Glad for a close W rather than a close L. Go Vols beat the piggies!

Posted by Kwitcherbellyachin on February 9, 2008 at 6:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

You know what's nice? It's nice to be 21-2, ranked in the top 10, and being able to complain about the last game. Isn't it? It's much better than the days of such all-stars as Steve Hamer, Scooter McFagdon or Damon Johnson. Not that I had a problem with players from those eras, but those were some difficult games to watch in the Houston/O'Neill/Peterson days.

Seriously, the sky isn't falling. We're winning games we shouldn't win, and winning game we should. It's fun to be a Vol basketball fan these days, even on bad days.

Posted by pms151 on February 9, 2008 at 6:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Some of you guys just don't have a clue. We got ambushed today just as BP predicted and we fought our way out of it with a win. JP is in his first year here and will improve in team play. His talent is undeniable.

Posted by dqnapier on February 9, 2008 at 6:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree BShell12. Prince is really hurting us right now. Josh Tabb is a much better team basketball player. Hope to see more of Tabb down the stretch

Posted by orangeblood on February 9, 2008 at 6:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

JP tries to drive to the basket every time he touches the ball. He shoots the ball every time. I about pulled my hair out watching him play today. But a win's a win i guess. You gotta have luck to win like we have been this season...and boy did we get lucky today....

Posted by volntx on February 9, 2008 at 6:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Good teams win close,ugly games on the road when they do not play well. A win is a win! Learn and keep moving forward.

Posted by pupvol on February 9, 2008 at 6:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It seems like we play down to the competition. I doubt memphis,kansas duke or ucla comes to baton rouge and looks like tenn did.

Posted by bshell12 on February 9, 2008 at 6:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I Love bruce pearl and his style of play which is what perplexes me as to why he continues to play him, because JP is everything bruce coaches against

Posted by doctorvol on February 9, 2008 at 6:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

JP needs to meet with Mr. Justus on some FT sessions. He needs technique, as well as a routine. He did, however, create several steals, including 3 of 4 consecutive trips late in the 2nd half. That's why he remained in the game.

Posted by pms151 on February 9, 2008 at 6:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)

pup vol, those teams are not SEC rivalry teams. No comparison.

Posted by akkdowl on February 9, 2008 at 6:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

pupvol: Of course mem, kan, duke, or ucla wouldn't play in BR that way. They are not SEC teams playing an SEC game on the road. Totally different mindset. Every team in America plays like dogs sometimes. Sometimes they get beat because of it and sometimes they don't. That's why they play the game.

Posted by schymtz on February 9, 2008 at 6:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Fantastic, inspired defense by LSU had a lot to do with this game, but UT played good defense as well. I thought the game a fantastic tribute to Coach Brady, What is it with LSU and coaching announcements before games with UT? I thought the LSU move before the SEC Football Championship probably impacted that game. In this case, a retiring AD made a sacrificial decision for questionable reasons. Brady is one of very few coaches to have a winning record against BP. UT ought to know that canning a good coach does not always bring success: witness the Majors disappointment. Can't help hoping LSU (and KY) get a taste of that lesson. I think Tennessee very fortunate to have Fulmer and Pearl. Fulmer came within an ace of Beating LSU. Pearl did steal this game from LSU with coaching. Team played like they all had the flu. Great, difference-making win!!!

Posted by pms151 on February 9, 2008 at 6:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

JP is probably sitting between CL and JJS on the plane as we speak. He will pick it up. This is one really mature kid.

Posted by volntx on February 9, 2008 at 6:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ALL the top teams play bad somedays, Memphis about got beat at home last week by a below SEC talent team. When you play 30 something games you are not going to be sharp everytime. And some teams match up well against other teams regardless of records. LSU still has SEC talent,they are not some directional school.

Posted by cwisenhower on February 9, 2008 at 6:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

If we can win with the flu, then we can beat anybody. The game was ridiculous from beginning to end, especially the officiating (how do you call light fouls but not hard fouls...I didn't get that), but we got it done. Let's move on.

Posted by dqnapier on February 9, 2008 at 6:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I hope you're right pms151. I don't have any doubt that he will help the Vols in the years to come. I just think Tabb knows the sysem better and would help us more this season. However, BP has done such a great job in Knoxville and has earned the right to not be second-guessed.

Posted by pms151 on February 9, 2008 at 6:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I just hpe like hell I'm right too dq.

Posted by creepykev on February 9, 2008 at 6:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I think that after this season it will come out that Prince needs more surgery on his shoulder. He goes to the rim all the time because it hurts him to shoot from further out. He's doing all right and we are winning. You wouldn't think that from all these hateful posts. We looked ugly and still won.

Posted by volfan on February 9, 2008 at 6:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Wow! All those posters who also know the best way to coach a team and FREELY give their opinons! Gosh, what would Pearl do without their help? I think that Pearl is THE Coach and should be recognized as one of the team who enjoys the "ugly" win. I say ugly, but any win is a pretty win since it goes in the "W" column. I have been a Vol fan for over 60 years. Back in the "40's"and 50's it was mostly reading the newspapers and listening to them, occasionally, on the radio. I know that there were several mistakes and poor judgement on some of the plays in this game, but a win is a win is a win.
Go Vols and Sizzle the swine!

Posted by volfan73120 on February 9, 2008 at 6:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Is there any way you can coach a player to shoot foul shots? It is hard to believe we are that bad, with all the talent we have. We didn't get many chances to shoot foul shots today, but I don't remember anyone making two in a row.

Posted by pms151 on February 9, 2008 at 6:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Gee Zander good comment. Sorry I just can't remember which conference Memphis plays in. I can't understand why.

Posted by Kwitcherbellyachin on February 9, 2008 at 6:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Part of the reason we were so bad from the line today is that the wrong guys were shooting foul shots. Our five worst foul shooters took all of them. Jujuan, Tyler, and Chris were a combined 0-0.

Posted by volntx on February 9, 2008 at 6:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey zander,

Tenn is 21-2, we do not have to justify anything. Texas is a good team,top 20,and owed us one from the past couple of years and Kentucky is still pretty good despite their record. Take your best shot and I'll see you in San Antonio watching the Vols in the final 4!

Posted by utchris2003 on February 9, 2008 at 6:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Here we go again with some more ignorant Tiger fans posting on here. Western Kentucky is not a good team? They are 19-5 and the best in the Sunbelt at 11-1. Beat Michigan, lost by 3 to Gonzaga. Yeah, they really suck.

You guys should worry more about keeping your players out of the clubs and from beating up women, than our schedule (which is ranked a lot tougher than yours by the way)

Posted by JohnyLobo34 on February 9, 2008 at 6:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

After watching JP Prince now for almost two months I've come to the conclusion: He's too inconsistent to be a key player. Prince makes these dazzling drives to the hoop; but never finishes. He's a liability at the free throw line. He's quick on defense, but not strong enough to compete against many SEC players. I'd rather have Josh Tabb in a pinch. Coach Pearl needs to take a hard look at the rotation. Nice win today.

Posted by TurboFan on February 9, 2008 at 6:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Wow, took almost 50 comments for someone to mention officiating.

pms, please don't take the bait, ignore the Z(ero). He posts therefore he thinks he is relevant.

All this crap on JP; how many treys did Howell throw up and none were close. Just goes to show you how important Jujuan is to this team and to CLo.

Posted by utchris2003 on February 9, 2008 at 6:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

OleTDTN -

Amen brother.

Posted by utchris2003 on February 9, 2008 at 6:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

OleTDTN -

Amen brother.

Posted by fundamentals83 on February 9, 2008 at 6:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

What is up with the love affair between the anouncers and the refs today? Best in America? Bs.... And they were quick to agree with the refs on some very questionable calls.

Posted by TurboFan on February 9, 2008 at 7:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Does it seem like once we get the ball down low it becomes like everyone wants to get the assist rather than the basket? Like Howell driving the lane, stopping then flipping it toward a surprised Duke, in traffic, as if saying "pardon me sir, but I believe this is yours".

Posted by pms151 on February 9, 2008 at 7:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

WD40, thanks but I just couldn't resist the shot. Looks like Pacman couldn't either.

Posted by pdhuff on February 9, 2008 at 7:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

If we're going to have one of these, this was the time to do it. The Lord smiled on BP and his Vols today. Our inside defense is nonexsistent.

Arkie up next. Get up, Vols.

Posted by reg_mza on February 9, 2008 at 7:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Alright, so I missed the game. I forgot to Tivo it. I was however checking the stats and found some quizzical oddities.

1. Crews, Chism, and Prince shot 13 of their 15 free throws. Ramar had the other two. Were they deliberately fouling our forwards to keep the game slow? Were they deliberately our weakest free throw shooters? Were they scouting it out like that?

2. No free throws for our best free throw shooters? Either our guards did not attack their bigs to draw fouls or no fouls were called I can only gather.

3. They shot no free throws in the first half and 4 for the game. Were we really being that better defensively to hold them to 45 yet no foul in doing so? Or was LSU that sloppy? 22 turnovers for them, perhaps so.

4. We sucked from 3 point range. Thank goodness Lofton still has a hot hand.

5. We outrebounded a team that was taller than us in just about all positions on the floor, 39-38. That's something to be proud of finally. Not a big disparity but they were longer and taller than us in all aspects.

For the questions above, please someone fill me in...

Posted by TurboFan on February 9, 2008 at 7:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Although, fundament, they did disagree on the final blocking call on JP in the waning seconds. Which is strange because for most of the game, listening to Joe Dean Jr, I was wondering if LSU even had an opponent on the floor.

Posted by asleep on February 9, 2008 at 7:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Good teams find ways to win on the road when everything is going wrong. I agree though with most of you that the reason we are coughing up the double-digit leads is poor FT shooting, especially from the bigs. It is going to cost us and Memphis too. At tourney time, you are going to need to make some clutch FTs down the stretch and so far, we have been unable to do so. Maybe things will click. Go Vols!!!

Posted by pms151 on February 9, 2008 at 7:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Arkansas looks very weak to the 3. Even though they are winning against OM they don't look to have a very good perimeter D.

Posted by mparker on February 9, 2008 at 7:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

There is a timve and place for the words "butt-ugly". Today was one of those times.

No dissing LSU, they played hard. But, my goodness, all the misplays, poor decisions, and the FT shooting??

You really do have to credit LSU, they took a page out of UK's playbook.

Best wishes to those guys, they will be good in a year if they hold together.

Posted by TurboFan on February 9, 2008 at 7:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

reg, they fouled whomever came into the paint, blocks, over the backs, etc. Trying to remember, think Ramar was fouled on drive to the hoop.

Too true, PD, against any one of the other ten SEC teams and this would have been and L.

Posted by TurboFan on February 9, 2008 at 7:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Was going to correct my spelling on my previous post to "an L" but decided that was to close to Z's home.

Posted by mparker on February 9, 2008 at 7:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

oletdtn;
It's happening with a lot of teams right now, just the time of year I guess. Look at the other UT and Iowa State, it went to OT.

You are correct, we have a disturbing habit of playing juat a little better than the weaker teams.

Ark should be a good test.

Posted by LadyVolsEighTimes on February 9, 2008 at 7:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

a W is a W, but that sure looked nasty.

Posted by pms151 on February 9, 2008 at 7:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Zander, just go back to pressing your sheets for your big Sat. nite rally. No one in here to lynch.

Posted by volguy615 on February 9, 2008 at 7:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

just one question to some of the coaches on here, do you know if the ball is blown up or stuffed. i have doubt you do.

Posted by rbatten9 on February 9, 2008 at 7:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

A win is a win. When you are going through the grind that is the conference schedule you have to win games like this.

Posted by mparker on February 9, 2008 at 7:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

one thing is for sure, we didn't waste a lot of energy on the press or running the floor. Hard to press when you don't make shots.

Posted by mparker on February 9, 2008 at 7:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

....also, JP might as well try to bank in FT's. That guy needs a LOT of time on shotting drills.

That being siad, the could REALLY be a great one in a year of so.

Posted by Kwitcherbellyachin on February 9, 2008 at 7:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Zander, just exactly what has utchris posted that has you so up in arms? Are you referring to his statements about the fight at Gill's on Highland?

Posted by cwisenhower on February 9, 2008 at 7:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Zander...the RPI of our singular opponents does not matter. What matters is the collective RPI and rankings. Who does Memphis play?

Gonzaga? We beat them on their turf by 10.

Georgetown? They lost to Pittsburg, which has 5 losses, 4 of them in conference.

Southern Cal? They lost to Mercer(???) and Cal, and almost the rest of the feared Pac-10.

UConn and Arizona combine for 12 losses.

And please don't tell me about how tough C-USA is. I live in Memphis. I have to eat this garbage everyday. Tulsa held the kittens to a season low in points, and they're ranked 10th in C-USA.

What matters is UT's RPI currently has us at #1.

And you still think Memphis plays tough games and in a tough conference? UTEP? Wow man. When your players get out of jail or get done fighting the world, teach them how to hit some free throws. Fundamentals are what's going to lose the game for Memphis when the Big Orange comes to town.

You've got nothing but smack talk Tiger fan. Our men will teach your boys how ball is played on the 23rd. You are a prime example of why I hate Tiger fans and the "beloved" Highland Hundred and love it when we mop the floor with your inferior school in any sport. I bet you're one of those idiots that holds onto that 1997 football victory and has to bring it up everytime you talk to a Vol fan, or whenever you make your silly call to Sports 56. It's all hot air anymore bubba; time to suck it all back in.

Thank you and good night.

Posted by LargeOrange on February 9, 2008 at 7:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It is time we face the truth. With the facilities, money, tradition, and talent we have given Bruce Pearl, we can't be satisfied with these lucky wins against the worst team in the SEC. We get embarrassed against our biggest rival, KY on National TV. We keep backing into these wins after blowing big leads by becoming too conservative in the 2nd half. How can we expect to get to, and win the final 4 shooting 31% from the field and 4/15 from the line? That is 26%. It is ridiculous that we have a coach that can't even teach these D1 scholarship athletes to shoot free throws. No one guards you and the goal is in the same place every time, the same place it is in Jr. High, how could we miss 74% of the time? I will tell you why, they are not working like heck on it. All of you Pearl Lovers say how Coach won the game for us. LSU missing a three by a gnat fart is why we won this game. Two or three shots here or there and we wouldn't be leading the SEC East. We have a center that misses regularly from 2 feet and if he draws a foul, it is two bricks later and the other team gets the ball again. I want the Vols to win too, but I guess I just see the truth and some of you blinded by love for Bruce just can't see it. We as investors are not getting the return on our investment in mens BB that we deserve. How many millions did we just spend on TBA and we can't even beat our biggest rivals and nearly lose to the worse team in the league. We squeak by Prairie View by 6 at home when a starter misses 12 free throws in a row, come on Bruce, get them ready to play. Call me negative and a hater if you want, but we should expect more from our coach and team, they should be out shooting foul shots until they can each hit 100 in a row, that is what it will take to play in the top ten and win. Bruce has been here 3 years now and how many SEC championships or SEC Tourneys has he won? ZERO He blew another 12 point lead tonight just like last year against Ohio St. that would have put us in the final and he doesn't even call a time out, that is poor coaching and we deserve more.

Posted by Kwitcherbellyachin on February 9, 2008 at 7:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"LSU missing a three by a gnat fart is why we won this game."

Actually, the three was way off. It's the dunk they made, albeit after the clock expired.

Posted by redneckerson on February 9, 2008 at 7:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

OleTDTN, you're right on it, basketball teams have bad nights - but this one finds a way to win on those nights. Got to disagree with you on Prince: inconsisent, selfish, and a slasher who's terrible at the line - a bad combination. Maybe next year for him if he hits the weights and buys into the team concept - I can't believe his dad was a coach.

Everybody needs to take one sure thing from this game - the importance of Jajuan. As a general rule, as he goes so goes this team. Gutty effort from him today despite the illness.

Posted by dopedawg on February 9, 2008 at 7:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

practice, practice, practice, practice--
much ft work needed!!!!!
everyone off the mark today. Hope its only the flu, and we can get over it quickly.

Posted by mcbrim1998 on February 9, 2008 at 7:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

#7 in the COUNTRY? Vols won't get past 1st round..of the SEC Tourney....

Posted by LargeOrange on February 9, 2008 at 7:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Ok, the gnat fart comment was a football field goal reference anyway, make that 1/10th of a second away from OT. And I meant "final 8" rather than "final" last year.

Posted by Kwitcherbellyachin on February 9, 2008 at 7:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"#7 in the COUNTRY? Vols won't get past 1st round..of the SEC Tourney...."

It will be pretty easy to get by the first round since we won't have to play until the second night.

Posted by creepykev on February 9, 2008 at 7:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

You must be joking LargeOrange. Or are you really Fulmer getting back at us for loving Pearl and giving you grief?

Posted by akkdowl on February 9, 2008 at 7:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

LargeOrange: you're an idiot. Why don't you, Calipari and Zander cozy up together on these cold winter nights.

Posted by VOLS85 on February 9, 2008 at 7:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

TDTN, I agree with your assessment of the game today...write it down! No one talks about UNC's loss to Santa Clara in 2005, because they won the national championship. As you said, teams just don't get up for certain games, because to be honest with everyone, LSU is not one to get up for. I like the winning spirit and I like that we can still score 47 and win, but I don't want to see it every game. Way to grind out a win, off to 21-2!!!

Posted by budrhon on February 9, 2008 at 7:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I remember during the Devoe Era of low scoring games like this.

Posted by oldbasshead on February 9, 2008 at 7:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Has anyone noticed that we seems to not have any touch around the basket. I counted 14 missed shots right at the basket in the Fla game and it continued today against LSU. It seems that more often than not they just throw it up like it is a rock or something and it bounces off the backboard or hits the underside of the rim. Shouldn't those be high percentage shots that we make most of the time. In addition, why don't we shoot medium jump shots. It seems that our only scoring is 3's, long 2's and drives to the basket. Seems like at least part of the time we should pull up in the paint and shoot the short jump shot. If we did this more, I think it would open up the layup.

Posted by TommyJack on February 9, 2008 at 7:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Way too much negativity on the bb side of the board.

Posted by LargeOrange on February 9, 2008 at 8:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

budrhon - Yeah, I remember the Jerry Green and Buzz era low scoring games like this too, they just didn't get lucky and have the other team and the refs give them the wins. Did you see those charge calls we got, man we are lucky. Fire Pearl.

Posted by nivatne on February 9, 2008 at 8:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Though I disagreed w/ the announcers on most things that were said during the game, they did say something dead on: some teams just match up better against others. FL was a run and gun team, and we whipped their butts. LSU played a slow, half-court game and is tall, lanky, and pesky around the rim, which caused us to alter alot of our shots. Ultimately, all that matters is that W in the win column. This is not a game we could have won a few years ago. Go Vols, beat those Hogs!!

Posted by TurboFan on February 9, 2008 at 8:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

You're right about the charge calls, Large, except the officials flipped the arrow on who they favored in the second half. It pretty much evened out.

Posted by rodneyadms on February 9, 2008 at 8:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

we won and thank God ...should put a little scare in them and maybe they learned something today. Maybe it will help in the next few weeks in terms of motivation.

Posted by winbigvols on February 9, 2008 at 8:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

We sucked today, Prince is a joke shooter all he can do is hit a dunk or layup, thats why he is getting fouled. He and Chism are terrible at the line, looked very uninspired all day. The worst we have looked in 3 years. They were just not ready to play. We will get put out the first round of the SEC and NCAA tournaments if we don't quit playing street ball and improve our free throw shooting. Just a all around sucky game by the big orange.

Posted by oldbasshead on February 9, 2008 at 8:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Anybody notice that we don't have any feel under the basket?

Posted by alfrizzle097 on February 9, 2008 at 8:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I wish people would lay off of JP. His game is creating for himself. Something other people struggle with at times. Many of his "bad" shots are according to plan. He gets as good of a shot as possible with people in rebounding position. Many times we get the rebound and layup BECAUSE of JP. Jajuan plays well and they suddenly can't blanket Chris like they did.

Jordan has taken care of the ball and hit threes when he is open. That is the main thing you need from your point guard.

Officiating was fair but inaccurate. The style of officiating kept the game close because we didn't hit threes.

I argue vehemently that the team has gotten better with free throws. Duke looks nothing like he did last year, and Wayne does well in spurts now. Ramar is worlds better and even Tyler has gotten better.

Feel free to comment....

Posted by faithfulvol on February 9, 2008 at 8:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Tough game......BUT WE WON....Go Vols!!!!! Two players sick with the flu, I appreciate JaJuan and Jordan and all of the players for giving their all. To hear some of these posts, you'd think we were having a losing season and you'd think that it was the fans giving up everyday of their lives for TN Vol Basketball, when all they are doing is watching games on game day and making crude, rude posts about a GREAT TN VOL TEAM everyday on this site. These kids give their lives for our program and some of you need to get a life and quite making stupid posts like some of these!
I am very proud to be a TN VOL FAN and I can't wait to see this team play in the Final Four in March 2008. GO VOLS!

Posted by dvols on February 9, 2008 at 8:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ya'll givin coach PEARL advice. that is funny as hell!

go JP, don't guess anyone remembers the xavier game!

Posted by hippie60 on February 9, 2008 at 8:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

wind sprints on the plane home? Foul shot practice when we get home? good idea?

Posted by txsvol on February 9, 2008 at 8:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

pms151, Sorry, but I was almost an English major. Back to my Tennessee raisings, and I meant 'purty,' as in "Ain't it purty?"
SAVol

Posted by pms151 on February 9, 2008 at 8:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Largevol, I would never call you negative or hater. How bout just plain ignorant?

Posted by GreerVol22 on February 9, 2008 at 8:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Perfect storm. Emotional, high powered game with Florida, then with Brady's firing there is the "oh, its gonna be easy" factor, couple of ill players, and even "sicker" refs. Its a W, get well boys, cause I think coach has a surprise waiting in that pretty new practice facility.

Posted by pinesvol on February 9, 2008 at 8:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

LargeOrange - Some folks just don't appreciate sarcasm, huh?

Posted by pms151 on February 9, 2008 at 8:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

txsvol, now your'e talkin.

Posted by LargeOrange on February 9, 2008 at 8:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

TommyJack (7:59 p.m.) - "Way too much negativity on the bb side of the board."
What TJ, you only like cherry picking the negative facts on the FB side of the board? Too many "naysayer, doom & gloomer, loser/hater, etc." you think? Instead of pounding the rock, maybe we should say "throwing the bricks".

Posted by gavol on February 9, 2008 at 8:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I didn't see the game, but the box score showed that Tennessee did not score any points for over 6 minutes in the second half. The team needs a little less ego and lot more desire. They are lucky to beat any team with the horrible statistics for this game. If their attitude is just to get by, that's exactly what they will do this season. They have the talent for a run at the National Championship. If they don't show the desire, they may finish no better than in the top 15 teams. That would be a shame.

Posted by pms151 on February 9, 2008 at 8:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It's obvious you don't either pines.

Posted by LargeOrange on February 9, 2008 at 8:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Pinesvol - Yep, what is good for the goose is good for the Gander. Too many front runners, band wagon jumpers and hypocrites.

Posted by givehim6 on February 9, 2008 at 9:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It looks to me that the vols are not playing with the same fire thay started the year off with. Plus other teams are looking at the vols as the team to beat. To be a national ranked team you need your A game ever time you play. Do the vols have what it takes to go all the way? I hope so!

Posted by LargeOrange on February 9, 2008 at 9:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I think so, but I have never thought about that one, but I would definitely take the living dog over the dead horse that keeps getting beaten on here. Man this negative stuff is easy. I didn't know what I was missing.

Posted by yabadabadoo1026 on February 9, 2008 at 9:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)

oldbashead, Bruce sure has noticed we stink around the basket--when Burt praised all of our offensive rebounds Bruce said that was because we cant convert from 2 inches out----hes not at all happy about our inside offense and said up front how upset he was with how inept the offense was--too much standing around and making nothing happen he said. Gotta love this guy with his candor and genuineness in the post game shows--he tells u what hes really thinking.
( the KNS censor blocked me from posting with your S/n posted correctly--lol---can u believe it)

Posted by TurboFan on February 9, 2008 at 9:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Pacman, for me it would depend on whether the dog is about to bite me. In which case I would take the dead lion.

Posted by StudentVOL on February 9, 2008 at 9:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

LargeOrange:
You know you are reaching if you start to call for the firing of a coach with a 21-2 record. This is a coach that took a graveyard job (Buzz Ball) and turned it into one of the finest basketball programs in the nation.
Bruce excited the fans, filled TBA, acquired the donations for Pratt Pavilion, and took us to the Sweet 16 last year. Stop moaning. This clearly is a top 10 team with a solid chance at the Final Four. Bruce is the best thing to hit Tennessee basketball in years. Go cheer for someone else- you obviously have no loyalty to the university.

And to everyone criticizing JP: give him some time. Everyone forgets that he has only played with the team 14 games. He is a shot creator and actually is used to playing point guard. He's still averaging almost 10 ppg. Get of his back.

Posted by Plasticman on February 9, 2008 at 10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I still say we gotta enjoy this ride, however, it's gonna be a short one in March if our Bigs don't quit playing like they are 6'1" !! Chism, Crews and Williams, it's time to play like 6'9" men and quit playing like babies under the goal. We have the weakest frontcourt in the SEC right now. WIthout some scoring in the paint, March Madness will not last past the Sweet 16!! If JP can't learn to hit FT's, he should stop driving to the basket because he NEVER passes the ball and usually gets fouled when he shoots which is like a turnover wince he never makes FT's. Today it was better to be lucky than good!!

Posted by TurboFan on February 9, 2008 at 10:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Pac, had no idea what you were talking about so just threw that out there for a laugh.

Posted by utchris2003 on February 9, 2008 at 10:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Aww Zander it will be ok. All the Memphis fans are mad at me because I found out that Three Tigers (Dorsey, Rose, and Mack) were cited the other night for getting into a fight at a bar. The players were cited and released to Coach Cal, who has managed to keep it out of the media thus far. They claim that they called the bar where it happened and they said it wasn't. I guess the people that I know, who are major Tiger supporters coincidentally, al made this up. Especially, considering that they don't know each other.

They are right, I invaded their board, although, it my hometown newspaper.

Posted by budd on February 9, 2008 at 10:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Final Score TN 47- LSU 45 its a "W" All that matters. Win and move on

Posted by LargeOrange on February 9, 2008 at 10:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

StudentVOL - Sweet sixteen, what is that worth? We finished #12 in Football and it is doomsday and we are in a downward spiral and a laughing stock. Bruce Almighty was 24-11 last year after blowing the Ohio St. game almost single handedly, that is a 0.68574 winning percentage, not bad, but Fulmer has a 0.76562 winning percentage and finished in the top 12 last year but many on here say we have to fire him, by that standard, I still say Pearl must go. Throw the Brick!

Posted by Hunter on February 9, 2008 at 10:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Due to our recent Tuesday appearances on ESPN, BP has an "extra" day this week to work. Think he'll use it? Oh yes, I think so....

Posted by arkyvol on February 9, 2008 at 10:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

arkansas will be tough. its peaking. tennessee needs to get past the doldrums, or the home streak will be history.

Posted by Ironcity on February 9, 2008 at 10:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Spometimes it takes a near miss to get things right. Ramar went 0-12 and since then he has hit 75%. I really believe JP will get it going at the line. For those of you who keep calling for Tabb, the reality is he has about 10% of the talent JP has. Plus his free throw shooting is just as bad if not worse. Prince can win us a game when he is on. He makes plays no one on the team can make. Realize that he is struggling. He will get it going soon. My hope is that he will shot 67% from the foul line the rest of the year. If he does watch out.

Posted by milldw02 on February 9, 2008 at 10:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

i'm only 29 years old, but i grew up watching TN under coach houston, then kevin o'neil. all i have to say is THIS TEAM IS 21-2!!!! please people, get some perspective!!!

Posted by VOLstuckINky on February 9, 2008 at 11:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

..... unite ...

Posted by coach75 on February 9, 2008 at 11:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

zander why don't you go to a tiger board and post or do they even have one since they spend all their time in the strip clubs and beating up on defenseless women. wait you probably do have a tiger board but all memphis fans except i guess you are to stupid to use it. say has keith lee and william bedford ever graduated yet, or are they still trying to fill in their name on the admissions application. yeah you played some good non-conference people and give you credit you snuck up on them and won. ever since then you have played a bunch of conference teams who could not beat western ky, mtsu, unc-asheville, or ut-chattanooga. go mug someone on beale street and get off our board with your petty jealousy. p.s. calipari is still afraid of john chaney.

Posted by stevefrommemphis on February 9, 2008 at 11:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Does anyone know why Childress did not play any today? Is he still sick?

UT has not won the SEC outright, with no tie, since 1967. The Vols took a huge step last week, only to almost give it away today.

Poor foul shooting and lack of Greg Oden-like inside play are eventually going to end our season -- nothing real insightful in this comment. I'm just going to enjoy the season and hope for an undisputed SEC Championship.

Tennessee should never play Memphis in any sport, but this year's game is especially distracting. We are in the middle of an SEC Championship run, yet have to take time out to go down there (or come down here, in my case, since I am writing this from the Bluff City).

Once again, I have suggested that zander's derogatory comments be removed.

Posted by Kwitcherbellyachin on February 9, 2008 at 11:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Childress is still recovering from illness as well.

Posted by Gustoly on February 10, 2008 at 12:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

4 of 15 in the FT department is TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE. No excuse for a college team to be that poor from the line.
They should be shooting 250 every day after practice

Posted by chxian on February 10, 2008 at 12:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

(Taken from a Memphis Board)

Coach Cal in rare form on postgame

Highlights:

They asked me about the game on the 23rd, I didn't even know who it was. (Tennessee game) Those people want to see our city die.

Enjoy every minute of this. Create your own happiness, because nobody else (ESPN, national media) is going to do it for you.

When you see a miserable, smile, put your arm around him and tell him you care about him. Maybe he won't go home and kick his cat.

Posted by LargeOrange on February 10, 2008 at 12:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Gustoly - I agree. Pearl needs to coach these guys up! That is the problem, CBP is quoted in another article in KNS, as saying that the poor free throw % has been a "point of emphasis", but that when it becomes a "point of emphasis" it gets worse. What does that mean, that the coaches are not to blame when the players can't shoot the most basic shot in the game? Why are we paying him so much, if he tries to coach a basic skill, and the team performs that skill poorer? Why delay, get rid of Bruce now before it is too late.

Posted by utchris2003 on February 10, 2008 at 12:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

To all of our Vol fans,

The Tiger Fans are bad mouthing all of KNS posters as we speak. Now some of may disagree at issues at hand on here sometimes, but I am sure that we take offense to the outsiders trashing us all.

I sure hope that they follow this morons link, he could not even get it right.

---
From the Commercial Appeal

Posted by mike on February 9, 2008 at 10:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Great win for the Tiger family...Boy it sure was quiet in downtown knoxville tonight. nashvols (you sure have a purty mouth) haven't got the memo yet, your boys are in trouble.

Bet the chat lines dry up too. If the VOLumeNation can't put away a house cat like LSU, what are you going to do with a full grown killing machine Tiger that resides in the FEDEX forum? The SEC is a joke this year. Pitiful, end of story. When a terrible team like LSU takes your volettes, #7 team (over-rated and self perpetuated) to the wire, come on! The "bitche* in orange britches" struggled with kentucky (who lost to UAB & Houston) and lost, then blew a huge lead against Mistake State only to hang on, then did it again against lsu which so bad they fired their coach this week. Let's not forget the beating you got against your only legit opponent, Texas. Shut the h*ll up aready. Be afraid? I can't stop laughing long enough to be afraid. nashvols... you need to put down the crack pipe, stop molesting your pet sheep and get off this board, bud. The vols are going to get hammered if they shoot like that against us!

I want all of you loyal tiger fans to join me on Feb 24 and post on the volunteer board. It is located at volsXra.com. There is so much trash talk from these hillbilly morons. They have determined in their intoxicated minds that bruce pearl is GOD. They really need to stop sleeping with sheep.

heel...your opinion of Conf-USA is of no concern to anybody other than your buddy, griswald (the cross-dressing prostitute). Why don't you two ACC qu**rs exchange phone numbers?

delash.. please don't get toooooo skeert, NO FRUIT SU*KS LIKE A BIG ORANGE.

TIGRFAN in knoxville

Posted by dfreeman on February 10, 2008 at 1:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)

utchris - why don't you post that memphis message board link so we can all come in and say hello to Mr. Zander!!

Posted by PLEASEGETRIDOFTHENOTSOSLIMONE on February 10, 2008 at 1:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I have feeling that LARDGEORANGE is really Phil Fulmer himself. If so, you picked a great name. And if you think Bruce Pearl doesn't coach his guys up then you are a clown. That guy gets after it! Unlike you who claps his hands and puts on a cheesy grin when your players mess up. I can't stand it!

Posted by utchris2003 on February 10, 2008 at 1:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

dfreeman,

as you requested.

http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/...

There is a Memphis Tigers section. The article where they have gone apesh** is the one about beating Central Florida. One of their ever so smart posters even claims in one of the posts that CUSA member New Orleans beat LSU. Two things wrong with that statement. 1) UNO is in the Sun Belt. 2) UNO does not play LSU this season.

I am beginning to think that the UT is the most important game of the season for Memphis (including tourney), while the game might not even be the most important game of the month for UT. UT fans have admitted on here that it will be tough to win there, but the Memphis fans continue to think that they are invincible.

Posted by FWBVol on February 10, 2008 at 2:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)

If a player isn't at least average from the free throw line by the time he gets to college the chances are he'll never be great from the line.

The free throw is too much like that mid-range jump shot, not many people work on them any more because they don't grab everyone's attention the way the 3-pointer or dunk does.

I watch a lot of high school basketball, and believe me, most teams strugggle to shoot 50 percent from the line. When they graduate, they jus take that inability to shoot the FT to the college level.

Posted by rbatten9 on February 10, 2008 at 2:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Talk your trash Tiger High fans now because you're really starting to piss me off.

Posted by cazfree58 on February 10, 2008 at 7:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Why am I not surprised at all the negative, critisizing comments posted on this board today? Typical UT fans...love them when they are good, criticize them when they play bad. And then it looks like some of you post comments without even reading the article! It told you that JaJaun was playing sick, as was Jordan Howell. Both guys and Chris missed practices before this game due to illness and Chris' grandmother passing away. It was a an ugly game, I didn't like it either but I didn't get down on them as I watched and I kept the faith. They are finding a way to win and it probably doesn't help any of our blood pressures to sit and watch these games...but the point is they won. And good coaching had a LOT to do with it. As Pearl said, everything for scripted in that game. Who the heck do you think provided the scripts??!! Don't start asking for Pearl to be fired after one bad game. That's just stupid and disrespectful. Pearl was interviewed before this game and he defended Brady and said it was an embarrassment that Brady was fired 'just for not winning'. Pearl is just in his third year here and deserves better than this from REAL UT fans. He knows what he is doing and his coaching staff is one of the best in the country. Give them a chance already.

Go VOLS!!

Posted by cazfree58 on February 10, 2008 at 8:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Oh and something I forgot to say...Thanks JaJuan for that final surge of energy and your desire to get the game won!! You have been an outstanding force on this team all year as you were last year. You have stepped up to your role as one of the Senior leaders and your love for the game shows every time you are on the floor. I am happy you are getting the attention and recognition you deserve. My only negative is that we will miss you greatly next year. So keep playing with all your heart and keep this season rolling on to the SEC tourney and then the NCAAs. You are the best!

Posted by pdhuff on February 10, 2008 at 9 a.m. (Suggest removal)

What a win. That said, another effort like that playing the other teams game will result in a L. Bruce is right talking about the FT shooting. It will bite us in the a##.

Need much better effort against Arkie or else. They blew Bama out.

Posted by THE_VOL on February 10, 2008 at 9:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)

This is better than Comedy Central folks!!! Damn! Don't even know where to start. First off I guess is it looks like J.P. has become everybody's new whipping boy. Sad. First it was Ramar, then most got on the CLo bandwagon, Chism of course is an on-going fave, and now J.P. If I was Tanner Wild (a walk-on for you experts that need help with the roster) I would be VERY AFRAID!!! Your turn is coming TW! Don't EVEN miss that lay-up with 5 seconds to go in a 25 pt blowout! Your a$$ will be torched! LMAO!!

Bottom line is yesterday we simply didn't make shots. Not from beyond the arc, not from in paint and not from the stripe. Had only 6 assists for the game and I know that at least 3 of those were on passes to Chism for lay-ins. Offense never got going and at least SOME of that should be credited to LSU. JuJuan and Jordan were obviously effected by the flu as they went 0-9 on threes and weren't close on any that I remember. How often will that happen?

But I don't understand why nobody wants to talk about the defense. Obviously LSU isn't an offensive machine but anytime you hold an SEC team to 45 points you've achieved something. Also had 22 offensive rebounds - even though we couldn't cash most of them.

Now if everybody just wants to look at the final score and bitch well, in fairness, you need to also look at the overall - 21 and 2 - and STFU! Most of the crap posted on here is the same stuff that all of you have been posting all year - we need this, BP should do that, can't beat good teams if we don't blah blah blah....Guess what? You've been WRONG ALL YEAR AND YOU'RE STILL WRONG!!! TWENTY ONE WINS - TWO LOSSES!!!!!!!!!! It's a road win on probably our worst day of the season. NOBODY is going to remember HOW it happened on Selection Sunday and it sure as hell won't matter after that! All this other micro "analyzing" is nothing but bullsh*! opinions from a whole bunch of you that don't even know which side of a jock strap is the front! Get over yourselves!!

Posted by pms151 on February 10, 2008 at 9:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I watched the OM Arky game yesterday and Arky doesn't seem to have a very good perimeter defense. Looks to me that we match up against them just fine.

Posted by pms151 on February 10, 2008 at 9:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Why don't we all lay off these Memphis idiots until later. They are lurking in here because there is nothing going on in their threads to excite them. I mean, who could get excited over beating second tier mid major teams every week? In here we have the SEC going on and they just wanna be a part of it.

Posted by Orangefever on February 10, 2008 at 9:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

largeornge- I know your kidding right!?

Posted by tigervol9802 on February 10, 2008 at 9:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I don't know if a witch doctor in the bayou has cursed us or if LSU just matches up that well with us somehow that I can't figure out. It makes no sense to me. But I guess a win is a win.

Free throw shooting is still a big concern. We've gotten worse again as of late. If Lofton, JaJuan, or Ramar isn't shooting them, I'm terrified. We've got to do better as a team.

Games like yesterday just worry me because I can see us playing like that against a 14 or 15 seed in the tournament and getting knocked off because of poor free throw shooting.

Posted by pms151 on February 10, 2008 at 9:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

FT shooting for most players is a matter of repetition of preshot routine which is a sports psychology issue. I think Pearl is only saying that breaking the systematic training to get better will hurt the player in the long run. Even Alan Houston had to learn to be a good foul shot shooter. These are young players with a huge amount of stress on their time in practice. They will be ready soon.

Posted by grvol on February 10, 2008 at 9:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I can see why Brady was fired.

Posted by VolCane7979 on February 10, 2008 at 9:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Seriously, what's the matter with you all? Complaining about playing down to our competition. We only scored 47 points. We looked bad down the stretch. WE WON, morons. We are 21-2 and likely moving up to #6 in the country. I'm sick of the negativity on this board.

Oh yea, remember that Ohio State team from last year... that team that knocked us out and made the NC game? Go back and look at their results and all the games where they "played down to the level of their competition."

Posted by Mr_Man52 on February 10, 2008 at 10:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

See you fellers in 2 weeks. Time for your beatin'. GO TIGERS!!!!!!

Posted by redneckerson on February 10, 2008 at 10:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I've been to two world fairs, the hillbilly olympics, and a billy goat fight but now I've seen it all ... a pompous, arrogant, sheep fetishist spouting four paragraphs telling other folks to get over themselves. It's worth the price of admission just to get a laugh out of thevol and his narcissism.

Posted by volmot on February 10, 2008 at 10:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The people on this board who are complaining have short memories. Do you remember the lack of effort under Buzz and Jerry? This team has the LEAST amount of talent, NBA talent of any team in the top 8 yet we are 21-2. On some teams its not even close. Do you think Buzz or Jerry or any coach we've had in the last 25 years could take this team and get this result? If Bruce coached the Jerry era teams it would beat this team by 30. Yes we should be better free throw shooters, yes we should finish stronger around the basket. We are at a disadvantage inside against almost everyone we play in conference. Long, athletic, quick jumpers. Wayne is listed at 6'9" closer to 6'6" so he's playing out of position. Same for Duke. We start 3 people LISTED at 6'2" (HA HA) LSU shortest starter was 6'5" and this is the worst team in the league. You know what fellas, after the last 25 years I'm really just happy they play hard every night. And I do mean EVERY NIGHT. When Pearl gets the same material as Kansas, Duke, UNC, Memphis, UCLA and Georgetown then I will start being overly critical in my analysis of the teams performance.

Posted by TurboFan on February 10, 2008 at 10:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

For all those that repeat the 21-2 mantra saying we should be happy. I am. But I will forever be haunted by the 2001 team that started 16-1 and would win only four more the rest of the regular season. And that was a good year when we actually won a game in the SEC tourney. Yes, I know BP is not JG, but I didn't know JG was JG at that time either.

Happy but wary.

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