DeAndre Liggins: 'I'm one of the best defenders in the nation'

Two days before what figures to be an epic mano a mano with Connecticut star Kemba Walker, Kentucky's DeAndre Liggins put his defensive cards on the table.
"I'm a defender," he said Thursday at a Final Four interview session with reporters. "I'm one of the best defenders in the nation."

You got that right, DeAndre. Read the rest of the article at KentuckySports.com.

Read my February article about Liggins here.

Go here to see why this was the right choice to enter the NBA draft.

DeAndre Liggins: 'I'm one of the best defenders in the nation'

Two days before what figures to be an epic mano a mano with Connecticut star Kemba Walker, Kentucky's DeAndre Liggins put his defensive cards on the table.
"I'm a defender," he said Thursday at a Final Four interview session with reporters. "I'm one of the best defenders in the nation."

You got that right, DeAndre. Read the rest of the article at KentuckySports.com.

Read my February article about Liggins here.

Go here to see why this was the right choice to enter the NBA draft.

DeAndre Liggins: 'I'm one of the best defenders in the nation'

Two days before what figures to be an epic mano a mano with Connecticut star Kemba Walker, Kentucky's DeAndre Liggins put his defensive cards on the table.
"I'm a defender," he said Thursday at a Final Four interview session with reporters. "I'm one of the best defenders in the nation."

You got that right, DeAndre. Read the rest of the article at KentuckySports.com.

Read my February article about Liggins here.

Go here to see why this was the right choice to enter the NBA draft.

Kentucky: The Harrellson Hub

Sports Illustrated has a nice breakdown of some of the screens that UK runs using Josh Harrellson. Check it out.

Kentucky: The Harrellson Hub

Sports Illustrated has a nice breakdown of some of the screens that UK runs using Josh Harrellson. Check it out.

Kentucky: The Harrellson Hub

Sports Illustrated has a nice breakdown of some of the screens that UK runs using Josh Harrellson. Check it out.

Joey Votto named one of the Joe Posnanski's 32 Best Players in Baseball for 2011

Joe Posnanski put together a list of the 32 Best Players in Baseball for 2011. Joey Votto is #5. 

Here is his entry:

5. Joey Votto, Cincinnati Reds
It’s early in his career, but I think Joey Votto has a chance to become the best player ever to come out of Canada. If I had to rank the five best players born in Canada, I’d probably rank them like so:
1. Ferguson Jenkins
2. Larry Walker
3. Justin Morneau
4. John Hiller
5. Jeff Heath
And I’d give special mention to Terry Puhl, Jason Bay, Russell Martin, Eric Gagne and especially Matt Stairs.
Votto’s skill set — as a high-average hitter with patience and power — makes him one of the best players in the game right now, and you get the sense that he’s not finished getting better. He was very good in 2008, markedly better in 2009, markedly better again in 2010. He also seems like a good guy, and a motivated one, which I think comes across in this story by the Cincinnati Enquirer‘s John Fay. Votto thinks he can get better.

Go here for the rest.

Joey Votto named one of the Joe Posnanski's 32 Best Players in Baseball for 2011

Joe Posnanski put together a list of the 32 Best Players in Baseball for 2011. Joey Votto is #5. 

Here is his entry:

5. Joey Votto, Cincinnati Reds
It’s early in his career, but I think Joey Votto has a chance to become the best player ever to come out of Canada. If I had to rank the five best players born in Canada, I’d probably rank them like so:
1. Ferguson Jenkins
2. Larry Walker
3. Justin Morneau
4. John Hiller
5. Jeff Heath
And I’d give special mention to Terry Puhl, Jason Bay, Russell Martin, Eric Gagne and especially Matt Stairs.
Votto’s skill set — as a high-average hitter with patience and power — makes him one of the best players in the game right now, and you get the sense that he’s not finished getting better. He was very good in 2008, markedly better in 2009, markedly better again in 2010. He also seems like a good guy, and a motivated one, which I think comes across in this story by the Cincinnati Enquirer‘s John Fay. Votto thinks he can get better.

Go here for the rest.

Joey Votto named one of the Joe Posnanski's 32 Best Players in Baseball for 2011

Joe Posnanski put together a list of the 32 Best Players in Baseball for 2011. Joey Votto is #5. 

Here is his entry:

5. Joey Votto, Cincinnati Reds
It’s early in his career, but I think Joey Votto has a chance to become the best player ever to come out of Canada. If I had to rank the five best players born in Canada, I’d probably rank them like so:
1. Ferguson Jenkins
2. Larry Walker
3. Justin Morneau
4. John Hiller
5. Jeff Heath
And I’d give special mention to Terry Puhl, Jason Bay, Russell Martin, Eric Gagne and especially Matt Stairs.
Votto’s skill set — as a high-average hitter with patience and power — makes him one of the best players in the game right now, and you get the sense that he’s not finished getting better. He was very good in 2008, markedly better in 2009, markedly better again in 2010. He also seems like a good guy, and a motivated one, which I think comes across in this story by the Cincinnati Enquirer‘s John Fay. Votto thinks he can get better.

Go here for the rest.

Cincinnati Reds opening day lineup

Here it is:

Stubbs CF
Phillips 2B
Votto 1B
Rolen 3B
Bruce RF
Gomes LF
Hernandez C
Janish SS
Volquez P

Cincinnati Reds opening day lineup

Here it is:

Stubbs CF
Phillips 2B
Votto 1B
Rolen 3B
Bruce RF
Gomes LF
Hernandez C
Janish SS
Volquez P

Cincinnati Reds opening day lineup

Here it is:

Stubbs CF
Phillips 2B
Votto 1B
Rolen 3B
Bruce RF
Gomes LF
Hernandez C
Janish SS
Volquez P

Kentucky Basketball history: Freshmen 20-point games

Brandon Knight has more 20-point games than any freshman in UK history.

Here is the list:

1. Brandon Knight (2010-11) - 14
2. Patrick Patterson (2007-08) - 9
3. Rex Chapman (1986-87) - 9
4. Terrence Jones (2010-11) - 8
5. John Wall (2009-10) - 8
6. Sam Bowie (1979-80) - 6
7. Doron Lamb (2010-11) - 5
8. Keith Bogans (1999-00) - 5
9. Dwight Anderson (1978-79) - 5

Kentucky Basketball history: Freshmen 20-point games

Brandon Knight has more 20-point games than any freshman in UK history.

Here is the list:

1. Brandon Knight (2010-11) - 14
2. Patrick Patterson (2007-08) - 9
3. Rex Chapman (1986-87) - 9
4. Terrence Jones (2010-11) - 8
5. John Wall (2009-10) - 8
6. Sam Bowie (1979-80) - 6
7. Doron Lamb (2010-11) - 5
8. Keith Bogans (1999-00) - 5
9. Dwight Anderson (1978-79) - 5

Kentucky Basketball history: Freshmen 20-point games

Brandon Knight has more 20-point games than any freshman in UK history.

Here is the list:

1. Brandon Knight (2010-11) - 14
2. Patrick Patterson (2007-08) - 9
3. Rex Chapman (1986-87) - 9
4. Terrence Jones (2010-11) - 8
5. John Wall (2009-10) - 8
6. Sam Bowie (1979-80) - 6
7. Doron Lamb (2010-11) - 5
8. Keith Bogans (1999-00) - 5
9. Dwight Anderson (1978-79) - 5

Jay-Z investigation

Jay-Z's trip to the Kentucky locker room may get him into some trouble since he is a part owner of the New Jersey Nets.

Go here for more of this story.

Jay-Z investigation

Jay-Z's trip to the Kentucky locker room may get him into some trouble since he is a part owner of the New Jersey Nets.

Go here for more of this story.

Jay-Z investigation

Jay-Z's trip to the Kentucky locker room may get him into some trouble since he is a part owner of the New Jersey Nets.

Go here for more of this story.

It’s Darius Miller time

Kentucky's Darius Miller is from Kentucky and won the coveted Mr. Kentucky Basketball award back in 2008. A picture of a young Darius Miller and Tony Delk has recently been circulating the internet. This guy has bled blue his whole life.


Go here for more.

Is Darius Miller the Best Sixth Man in the Country?

It’s Darius Miller time

Kentucky's Darius Miller is from Kentucky and won the coveted Mr. Kentucky Basketball award back in 2008. A picture of a young Darius Miller and Tony Delk has recently been circulating the internet. This guy has bled blue his whole life.


Go here for more.

Is Darius Miller the Best Sixth Man in the Country?

It’s Darius Miller time

Kentucky's Darius Miller is from Kentucky and won the coveted Mr. Kentucky Basketball award back in 2008. A picture of a young Darius Miller and Tony Delk has recently been circulating the internet. This guy has bled blue his whole life.


Go here for more.

Is Darius Miller the Best Sixth Man in the Country?

Elite Eight teams since the Wildcats last went to the Final Four

The Kentucky Wildcats are in the Final Four for the first time in 13 years. That is the biggest Final Four gap in Kentucky history. The next biggest is nine years.

Here are the Elite Eight teams since their last trip to the Final Four.

Elite Eight teams since the Wildcats last went to the Final Four

The Kentucky Wildcats are in the Final Four for the first time in 13 years. That is the biggest Final Four gap in Kentucky history. The next biggest is nine years.

Here are the Elite Eight teams since their last trip to the Final Four.

Elite Eight teams since the Wildcats last went to the Final Four

The Kentucky Wildcats are in the Final Four for the first time in 13 years. That is the biggest Final Four gap in Kentucky history. The next biggest is nine years.

Here are the Elite Eight teams since their last trip to the Final Four.

Miller and Delk

Check out this picture of a young Darius Miller and Tony Delk.

Miller and Delk

Check out this picture of a young Darius Miller and Tony Delk.

Miller and Delk

Check out this picture of a young Darius Miller and Tony Delk.

Kentucky's Josh Harrellson: Is He This Year's Version of Duke's Brian Zoubek?

The University of Kentucky's Josh Harrellson has come a long way this season. Here's what the team was supposed to look like as the year began:

Starting five:

Terrence Jones
Brandon Knight
Doron Lamb
DeAndre Liggins
Darius Miller

Key reserve:

Eloy Vargas

When John Calipari took over in Harrellson's junior season, he wasn't a big fan of Jorts, and it showed in his playing time. Jorts only played in 19 games, averaging 4.3 minutes per.

Now, he is a possible late first-round pick in the NBA Draft.

Is Harrellson simply a new version of Duke's Brian Zoubek?


Rebounding

Brian Zoubek was known for his rebounding, but he wasn't as good Josh Harrellson has been this season. However, Zoubek did emerge at the end of his final season.

Here is how they compare as seniors:

Zoubek: 5.6 rebounds per game

Harrellson: 8.8

Here are their offensive rebounding numbers:

Zoubek: 3.5

Harrellson: 3.7

Harrellson is clearly better.


Scoring

Zoubek was not known as a scorer. He put up double-digit scoring in eight games, but they were mostly blowouts. A Zoubek bucket was a nice-to-have for Duke.

Harrellson has 13 double-digit scoring games, and now has done it in six of their last seven. UK counts on Harrellson to score.

Here are the numbers:

Zoubek: 7.6

Harrellson: 5.6

Another Harrellson advantage.


Defense

Zoubek was not very good on the defensive end; he could be overpowered by stronger centers. His main strength was rebounding.

Harrellson is becoming a force under the glass. He gave up some points to Ohio State's Jared Sullinger but made key stops when they were needed.

Now to the numbers:

Zoubek:

Defensive rebounds: 4.1
Steals: .68
Blocks: .78

Harrellson:

Defensive rebounds: 5.9
Steals: .9
Blocks: 1.5

Harrellson has the edge again.


Emergence

Both Zoubek and Harrellson were not projected to be starters for their teams at the beginning of their senior seasons. They both came a long way to make a difference for their teams.

Here are the minutes each received in their final three seasons:

Zoubek:

Sophomore: 10.5
Junior: 11.9
Senior: 18.7

Harrellson:

Sophomore: 9.3
Junior: 4.0
Senior: 28.5

So we see that Zoubek never really became part of the rotation, while Harrellson has emerged as a big man that other teams need to game plan against.

Zoubek played more than 30 minutes only once, which was in the title game. Harrellson has played over 30 minutes 18 times.

Harrellson wins this one.


Leadership

Both Zoubek and Harrellson have become leaders of their teams.

Zoubek just didn't play enough to be a leader on the floor, though. That team was led by Jon Scheyer, Kyle Singler and Nolan Smith.

Harrellson, DeAndre Liggins and Darius Miller are the key veterans on the Wildcat squad.

The freshmen get the glory, but these three have provided the leadership that will take the team to the title.


NBA

On the surface, Brian Zoubek and Josh Harrellson have a lot in common, but a closer look reveals that Harrellson is the much better player.

Zoubek was undrafted. His next NBA game will be his first.

Harrellson will be drafted, possibly in the first round. He will play in the NBA for five years.


Answer? No, Jorts is not another Brian Zoubek.

Kentucky's Josh Harrellson: Is He This Year's Version of Duke's Brian Zoubek?

The University of Kentucky's Josh Harrellson has come a long way this season. Here's what the team was supposed to look like as the year began:

Starting five:

Terrence Jones
Brandon Knight
Doron Lamb
DeAndre Liggins
Darius Miller

Key reserve:

Eloy Vargas

When John Calipari took over in Harrellson's junior season, he wasn't a big fan of Jorts, and it showed in his playing time. Jorts only played in 19 games, averaging 4.3 minutes per.

Now, he is a possible late first-round pick in the NBA Draft.

Is Harrellson simply a new version of Duke's Brian Zoubek?


Rebounding

Brian Zoubek was known for his rebounding, but he wasn't as good Josh Harrellson has been this season. However, Zoubek did emerge at the end of his final season.

Here is how they compare as seniors:

Zoubek: 5.6 rebounds per game

Harrellson: 8.8

Here are their offensive rebounding numbers:

Zoubek: 3.5

Harrellson: 3.7

Harrellson is clearly better.


Scoring

Zoubek was not known as a scorer. He put up double-digit scoring in eight games, but they were mostly blowouts. A Zoubek bucket was a nice-to-have for Duke.

Harrellson has 13 double-digit scoring games, and now has done it in six of their last seven. UK counts on Harrellson to score.

Here are the numbers:

Zoubek: 7.6

Harrellson: 5.6

Another Harrellson advantage.


Defense

Zoubek was not very good on the defensive end; he could be overpowered by stronger centers. His main strength was rebounding.

Harrellson is becoming a force under the glass. He gave up some points to Ohio State's Jared Sullinger but made key stops when they were needed.

Now to the numbers:

Zoubek:

Defensive rebounds: 4.1
Steals: .68
Blocks: .78

Harrellson:

Defensive rebounds: 5.9
Steals: .9
Blocks: 1.5

Harrellson has the edge again.


Emergence

Both Zoubek and Harrellson were not projected to be starters for their teams at the beginning of their senior seasons. They both came a long way to make a difference for their teams.

Here are the minutes each received in their final three seasons:

Zoubek:

Sophomore: 10.5
Junior: 11.9
Senior: 18.7

Harrellson:

Sophomore: 9.3
Junior: 4.0
Senior: 28.5

So we see that Zoubek never really became part of the rotation, while Harrellson has emerged as a big man that other teams need to game plan against.

Zoubek played more than 30 minutes only once, which was in the title game. Harrellson has played over 30 minutes 18 times.

Harrellson wins this one.


Leadership

Both Zoubek and Harrellson have become leaders of their teams.

Zoubek just didn't play enough to be a leader on the floor, though. That team was led by Jon Scheyer, Kyle Singler and Nolan Smith.

Harrellson, DeAndre Liggins and Darius Miller are the key veterans on the Wildcat squad.

The freshmen get the glory, but these three have provided the leadership that will take the team to the title.


NBA

On the surface, Brian Zoubek and Josh Harrellson have a lot in common, but a closer look reveals that Harrellson is the much better player.

Zoubek was undrafted. His next NBA game will be his first.

Harrellson will be drafted, possibly in the first round. He will play in the NBA for five years.


Answer? No, Jorts is not another Brian Zoubek.

Kentucky's Josh Harrellson: Is He This Year's Version of Duke's Brian Zoubek?

The University of Kentucky's Josh Harrellson has come a long way this season. Here's what the team was supposed to look like as the year began:

Starting five:

Terrence Jones
Brandon Knight
Doron Lamb
DeAndre Liggins
Darius Miller

Key reserve:

Eloy Vargas

When John Calipari took over in Harrellson's junior season, he wasn't a big fan of Jorts, and it showed in his playing time. Jorts only played in 19 games, averaging 4.3 minutes per.

Now, he is a possible late first-round pick in the NBA Draft.

Is Harrellson simply a new version of Duke's Brian Zoubek?


Rebounding

Brian Zoubek was known for his rebounding, but he wasn't as good Josh Harrellson has been this season. However, Zoubek did emerge at the end of his final season.

Here is how they compare as seniors:

Zoubek: 5.6 rebounds per game

Harrellson: 8.8

Here are their offensive rebounding numbers:

Zoubek: 3.5

Harrellson: 3.7

Harrellson is clearly better.


Scoring

Zoubek was not known as a scorer. He put up double-digit scoring in eight games, but they were mostly blowouts. A Zoubek bucket was a nice-to-have for Duke.

Harrellson has 13 double-digit scoring games, and now has done it in six of their last seven. UK counts on Harrellson to score.

Here are the numbers:

Zoubek: 7.6

Harrellson: 5.6

Another Harrellson advantage.


Defense

Zoubek was not very good on the defensive end; he could be overpowered by stronger centers. His main strength was rebounding.

Harrellson is becoming a force under the glass. He gave up some points to Ohio State's Jared Sullinger but made key stops when they were needed.

Now to the numbers:

Zoubek:

Defensive rebounds: 4.1
Steals: .68
Blocks: .78

Harrellson:

Defensive rebounds: 5.9
Steals: .9
Blocks: 1.5

Harrellson has the edge again.


Emergence

Both Zoubek and Harrellson were not projected to be starters for their teams at the beginning of their senior seasons. They both came a long way to make a difference for their teams.

Here are the minutes each received in their final three seasons:

Zoubek:

Sophomore: 10.5
Junior: 11.9
Senior: 18.7

Harrellson:

Sophomore: 9.3
Junior: 4.0
Senior: 28.5

So we see that Zoubek never really became part of the rotation, while Harrellson has emerged as a big man that other teams need to game plan against.

Zoubek played more than 30 minutes only once, which was in the title game. Harrellson has played over 30 minutes 18 times.

Harrellson wins this one.


Leadership

Both Zoubek and Harrellson have become leaders of their teams.

Zoubek just didn't play enough to be a leader on the floor, though. That team was led by Jon Scheyer, Kyle Singler and Nolan Smith.

Harrellson, DeAndre Liggins and Darius Miller are the key veterans on the Wildcat squad.

The freshmen get the glory, but these three have provided the leadership that will take the team to the title.


NBA

On the surface, Brian Zoubek and Josh Harrellson have a lot in common, but a closer look reveals that Harrellson is the much better player.

Zoubek was undrafted. His next NBA game will be his first.

Harrellson will be drafted, possibly in the first round. He will play in the NBA for five years.


Answer? No, Jorts is not another Brian Zoubek.

Defending Kemba Walker

Way back in November, the UConn Huskies dominated the Wildcats at the Maui Classic. The final score was 84-67. Kentucky is completely different now, though. In that game Terrence Jones was the teams' leading scorer and Eloy Vargas was the leading rebounder. For the Huskies, Kemba Walker was and is their go-to player. He hung 29 points on the Cats in that game.

What will Coach Cal do to stop Walker in their Final Four matchup? Here are three options:

Defending Kemba Walker

Way back in November, the UConn Huskies dominated the Wildcats at the Maui Classic. The final score was 84-67. Kentucky is completely different now, though. In that game Terrence Jones was the teams' leading scorer and Eloy Vargas was the leading rebounder. For the Huskies, Kemba Walker was and is their go-to player. He hung 29 points on the Cats in that game.

What will Coach Cal do to stop Walker in their Final Four matchup? Here are three options:

Defending Kemba Walker

Way back in November, the UConn Huskies dominated the Wildcats at the Maui Classic. The final score was 84-67. Kentucky is completely different now, though. In that game Terrence Jones was the teams' leading scorer and Eloy Vargas was the leading rebounder. For the Huskies, Kemba Walker was and is their go-to player. He hung 29 points on the Cats in that game.

What will Coach Cal do to stop Walker in their Final Four matchup? Here are three options:

Three Wildcat questions and answers

While Kentucky is preparing to take on Connecticut in the Final Four, here are the answers to some common questions being asked about the Wildcats.

Go here for more.

Three Wildcat questions and answers

While Kentucky is preparing to take on Connecticut in the Final Four, here are the answers to some common questions being asked about the Wildcats.

Go here for more.

Three Wildcat questions and answers

While Kentucky is preparing to take on Connecticut in the Final Four, here are the answers to some common questions being asked about the Wildcats.

Go here for more.

Harrellson has a tough matchup with Sullinger

The Kentucky Wildcats are set to take on the Ohio State Buckeyes on March 25, 2010. OSU is regarded by most as the best team in the country. One of the reasons they are so good is freshman forward Jared Sullinger. Sullinger can be unstoppable in the post. He is averaging 17.1 points and 10 rebounds a game.

What does Josh Harrellson need to do to contain Sullinger?

Harrellson has a tough matchup with Sullinger

The Kentucky Wildcats are set to take on the Ohio State Buckeyes on March 25, 2010. OSU is regarded by most as the best team in the country. One of the reasons they are so good is freshman forward Jared Sullinger. Sullinger can be unstoppable in the post. He is averaging 17.1 points and 10 rebounds a game.

What does Josh Harrellson need to do to contain Sullinger?

Harrellson has a tough matchup with Sullinger

The Kentucky Wildcats are set to take on the Ohio State Buckeyes on March 25, 2010. OSU is regarded by most as the best team in the country. One of the reasons they are so good is freshman forward Jared Sullinger. Sullinger can be unstoppable in the post. He is averaging 17.1 points and 10 rebounds a game.

What does Josh Harrellson need to do to contain Sullinger?

Brandon Knight in elite company

On Saturday, March 19, Brandon Knight lit up West Virginia for a career-high 30 points which carried the Wildcats into the Sweet Sixteen. How did Knight's stellar performance rank among the greatest NCAA tournament scoring games in Kentucky history? Knight is now tied with others for 14^th on the list.

Here is a quick summary of who is ahead of him.

Brandon Knight in elite company

On Saturday, March 19, Brandon Knight lit up West Virginia for a career-high 30 points which carried the Wildcats into the Sweet Sixteen. How did Knight's stellar performance rank among the greatest NCAA tournament scoring games in Kentucky history? Knight is now tied with others for 14^th on the list.

Here is a quick summary of who is ahead of him.

Brandon Knight in elite company

On Saturday, March 19, Brandon Knight lit up West Virginia for a career-high 30 points which carried the Wildcats into the Sweet Sixteen. How did Knight's stellar performance rank among the greatest NCAA tournament scoring games in Kentucky history? Knight is now tied with others for 14^th on the list.

Here is a quick summary of who is ahead of him.

Kentucky takes on West Virginia in round three of NCAA tournament

Kentucky knocked off Princeton in their first tournament game and now will take on the West Virginia Mountaineers.

Read more here.

Kentucky takes on West Virginia in round three of NCAA tournament

Kentucky knocked off Princeton in their first tournament game and now will take on the West Virginia Mountaineers.

Read more here.

Kentucky takes on West Virginia in round three of NCAA tournament

Kentucky knocked off Princeton in their first tournament game and now will take on the West Virginia Mountaineers.

Read more here.

Memories of the Cardiac Cats against Princeton

Kentucky won their first game in the NCAA Tournament in a nail biter. The final was 59-57. A layup by Brandon Knight with two seconds remaining sealed the deal.

Here is what I saw.

Memories of the Cardiac Cats against Princeton

Kentucky won their first game in the NCAA Tournament in a nail biter. The final was 59-57. A layup by Brandon Knight with two seconds remaining sealed the deal.

Here is what I saw.

Memories of the Cardiac Cats against Princeton

Kentucky won their first game in the NCAA Tournament in a nail biter. The final was 59-57. A layup by Brandon Knight with two seconds remaining sealed the deal.

Here is what I saw.

Terrence Jones declining

Terrence Jones' scoring and rebounding stats are on the decline.

I’m not trying to rip on Terrence Jones. He has been a major factor for the Wildcats this season. However, he is clearly in a slump. Against Princeton, Jones had two rebounds – his lowest total of the season. He is no longer the team’s leading rebounder. He did come up with a couple blocks (one huge block near the end), a three pointer, and 10 points but it was a game he would like to forget.
When Jones hits the NBA, he will have a tough time scoring but if he works on defense, blocking shots, and rebounding, he will make a lot of coin.

Terrence Jones declining

Terrence Jones' scoring and rebounding stats are on the decline.

I’m not trying to rip on Terrence Jones. He has been a major factor for the Wildcats this season. However, he is clearly in a slump. Against Princeton, Jones had two rebounds – his lowest total of the season. He is no longer the team’s leading rebounder. He did come up with a couple blocks (one huge block near the end), a three pointer, and 10 points but it was a game he would like to forget.
When Jones hits the NBA, he will have a tough time scoring but if he works on defense, blocking shots, and rebounding, he will make a lot of coin.

Terrence Jones declining

Terrence Jones' scoring and rebounding stats are on the decline.

I’m not trying to rip on Terrence Jones. He has been a major factor for the Wildcats this season. However, he is clearly in a slump. Against Princeton, Jones had two rebounds – his lowest total of the season. He is no longer the team’s leading rebounder. He did come up with a couple blocks (one huge block near the end), a three pointer, and 10 points but it was a game he would like to forget.
When Jones hits the NBA, he will have a tough time scoring but if he works on defense, blocking shots, and rebounding, he will make a lot of coin.

Princeton takes on Kentucky in the NCAA tournament

The Princeton Tigers will take on the Kentucky Wildcats in Tampa, FL on Thursday at 2:30. Once again, the Wildcats are loaded with potential NBA draft picks that have their sights on a title. Meanwhile, the Tigers would be happy to get past this game and play another on Saturday. The Tigers are the 13th-seed with a 25-6 record. The Wildcats are the 4th-seed and are 25-8.

Here is what you can watch for:

Princeton takes on Kentucky in the NCAA tournament

The Princeton Tigers will take on the Kentucky Wildcats in Tampa, FL on Thursday at 2:30. Once again, the Wildcats are loaded with potential NBA draft picks that have their sights on a title. Meanwhile, the Tigers would be happy to get past this game and play another on Saturday. The Tigers are the 13th-seed with a 25-6 record. The Wildcats are the 4th-seed and are 25-8.

Here is what you can watch for:

Princeton takes on Kentucky in the NCAA tournament

The Princeton Tigers will take on the Kentucky Wildcats in Tampa, FL on Thursday at 2:30. Once again, the Wildcats are loaded with potential NBA draft picks that have their sights on a title. Meanwhile, the Tigers would be happy to get past this game and play another on Saturday. The Tigers are the 13th-seed with a 25-6 record. The Wildcats are the 4th-seed and are 25-8.

Here is what you can watch for:

Five reasons Kentucky will win it all

My fearless prediction is that Kentucky will win the NCAA Championship this season. Here are five reasons why.

Five reasons Kentucky will win it all

My fearless prediction is that Kentucky will win the NCAA Championship this season. Here are five reasons why.

Five reasons Kentucky will win it all

My fearless prediction is that Kentucky will win the NCAA Championship this season. Here are five reasons why.

Why were the Wildcats seeded lower than Florida?

Kentucky beat Florida twice in 15 days. The first of those was at Rupp Arena. The second was in the SEC Tournament championship game. Kentucky has proven on the court that they are the better team. Yet, when the NCAA Tournament selection committee seeded them, somehow Florida ended up with a number two seed while Kentucky got a number four seed.

Click here for four reasons why this could have happened.

Why were the Wildcats seeded lower than Florida?

Kentucky beat Florida twice in 15 days. The first of those was at Rupp Arena. The second was in the SEC Tournament championship game. Kentucky has proven on the court that they are the better team. Yet, when the NCAA Tournament selection committee seeded them, somehow Florida ended up with a number two seed while Kentucky got a number four seed.

Click here for four reasons why this could have happened.

Why were the Wildcats seeded lower than Florida?

Kentucky beat Florida twice in 15 days. The first of those was at Rupp Arena. The second was in the SEC Tournament championship game. Kentucky has proven on the court that they are the better team. Yet, when the NCAA Tournament selection committee seeded them, somehow Florida ended up with a number two seed while Kentucky got a number four seed.

Click here for four reasons why this could have happened.

Which starter should coach Cal leave in?

The Kentucky Wildcats have five players averaging over 29 minutes per game. Most teams have two players who average more than 29 minutes a game. No NCAA champion in recent memory has relied so heavily on six players. Coach Cal sticks with his six players regardless of the score. For example, in the 31 point blowout against South Carolina, the other four guys on the team barely played. However, depth won't be the reason if Kentucky doesn't win it all.

Read the rest of this gem here.

Which starter should coach Cal leave in?

The Kentucky Wildcats have five players averaging over 29 minutes per game. Most teams have two players who average more than 29 minutes a game. No NCAA champion in recent memory has relied so heavily on six players. Coach Cal sticks with his six players regardless of the score. For example, in the 31 point blowout against South Carolina, the other four guys on the team barely played. However, depth won't be the reason if Kentucky doesn't win it all.

Read the rest of this gem here.

Which starter should coach Cal leave in?

The Kentucky Wildcats have five players averaging over 29 minutes per game. Most teams have two players who average more than 29 minutes a game. No NCAA champion in recent memory has relied so heavily on six players. Coach Cal sticks with his six players regardless of the score. For example, in the 31 point blowout against South Carolina, the other four guys on the team barely played. However, depth won't be the reason if Kentucky doesn't win it all.

Read the rest of this gem here.

Remembering painful losses in Wildcats history

Here is quick summary of some of the most painful losses in the Wildcat's long history. All the big ones are listed.

Remembering painful losses in Wildcats history

Here is quick summary of some of the most painful losses in the Wildcat's long history. All the big ones are listed.

Remembering painful losses in Wildcats history

Here is quick summary of some of the most painful losses in the Wildcat's long history. All the big ones are listed.

Is Tiger Woods Better Than Jack Nicklaus?

Tiger Woods fan: Yes, Jack Nicklaus has more major championships than Tiger Woods simply because he played longer.

Jack Nicklaus fan: I say no.  Nicklaus played against Hall Of Fame golfers like Gary Player, Tom Watson, and Arnold Palmer.  Who can top that today?

TWF: I hear that all the time.  Had Woods not so thoroughly dominated his era, guys like Vijay Singh, Phil Mickelson, and Ernie Els would have equaled the guys you named.

JNF: You aren't seriously arguing that you would take your foursome over mine?

TWF: All day.  Also, tournaments today have much deeper fields to beat.

JNF: I'm not sure the 50th best golfer of either generation makes a difference.

TWF: Of course they do.

Please click here for the rest of this discussion.

Is Tiger Woods Better Than Jack Nicklaus?

Tiger Woods fan: Yes, Jack Nicklaus has more major championships than Tiger Woods simply because he played longer.

Jack Nicklaus fan: I say no.  Nicklaus played against Hall Of Fame golfers like Gary Player, Tom Watson, and Arnold Palmer.  Who can top that today?

TWF: I hear that all the time.  Had Woods not so thoroughly dominated his era, guys like Vijay Singh, Phil Mickelson, and Ernie Els would have equaled the guys you named.

JNF: You aren't seriously arguing that you would take your foursome over mine?

TWF: All day.  Also, tournaments today have much deeper fields to beat.

JNF: I'm not sure the 50th best golfer of either generation makes a difference.

TWF: Of course they do.

Please click here for the rest of this discussion.

Is Tiger Woods Better Than Jack Nicklaus?

Tiger Woods fan: Yes, Jack Nicklaus has more major championships than Tiger Woods simply because he played longer.

Jack Nicklaus fan: I say no.  Nicklaus played against Hall Of Fame golfers like Gary Player, Tom Watson, and Arnold Palmer.  Who can top that today?

TWF: I hear that all the time.  Had Woods not so thoroughly dominated his era, guys like Vijay Singh, Phil Mickelson, and Ernie Els would have equaled the guys you named.

JNF: You aren't seriously arguing that you would take your foursome over mine?

TWF: All day.  Also, tournaments today have much deeper fields to beat.

JNF: I'm not sure the 50th best golfer of either generation makes a difference.

TWF: Of course they do.

Please click here for the rest of this discussion.

Cincinnati Bengals: 6 Reasons Why They Should Not Keep Cedric Benson

Cedric Benson was the feature back for the 2010 Cincinnati Bengals.

He came to the Bengals back on Sept. 30, 2008 when the Bengals signed Benson to a one-year, $520,000 contract. He ended that season playing in 12 games picking up 747 yards on the ground and 185 yards receiving.

On March 3, 2009, Benson signed a two-year, $7 million contract with the Bengals. Benson had a big season in 2009. He had 1,251 yards rushing even though he only played 13 games.

In 2010, Benson could not duplicate his 2009 success. He did grind out 1,111 yards rushing, but it took him 321 carries to get it done.

Here is why 2010 should be Benson's last season with the Bengals.

1. Benson Just Isn't Good

In 2010, Benson averaged 3.5 yards per carry. That total matched his 2008 number which was similar to his 2007 number (3.4).

According to footballoutsider.com, Benson was one of the worst running backs in the league in 2010.

Benson had three big games in 2010. The three teams (Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Buffalo Bills and Cleveland Browns) that he torched for those games rank 28th, 32nd (dead last) and 27th in the league in rushing defense respectively. In Benson's other 13 games, he averaged 2.1 yards per carry. Ouch!

One could make the argument that Benson's successful 2009 season was a product of the power running game. That year, they used an unbalanced line, two tight end formations and a fullback.

2. Fumbles

Benson has not been a fumble machine throughout his career. In his first five seasons, Benson only fumbled seven times.

In 2010, he matched his career total with seven fumbles which is second in the league. When the feature running back puts up less than three yards a carry in most games, he should at least be able to secure the ball.

3. Carson Palmer Needs Help

Teams that can't run the ball well put a lot of pressure on the passing game. In nine out of 16 games, the "bell cow" running back couldn't even pick up more than three yards per carry.

The Bengals usually handed off to Benson waiting for him to get his legs under him, struggling to get 2-3 yards per carry while the offense went nowhere and the team fell behind. Obviously, that won't work.

This kind of performance is what led Carson Palmer to chuck the ball more times than ever in franchise history.

4. Cedric Benson Is One-Dimensional

Cedric Benson caught 28 balls in 2010. That total ranks 30th in the league among running backs. Opposing defenses know that when Benson is in the game, if he doesn't get the handoff, they don't need to worry about him because Carson Palmer will rarely throw it to him.

The Bengals would be better served trying to find a dual-threat running back.

5. Benson Is Easily Replaceable

If the Bengals decide that they want a running back that fumbles a lot, won't get four yards per carry, requires 15 carries to "get it going" and doesn't catch the ball well, there should be a long list of candidates.

They don't need to look past their own roster to find guys that can give them what Benson does. Cedric Peerman and Bernard Scott are more than capable of being one of the worst running backs in the league.

6. Benson Is Old (for a Running Back)

Cedric Benson will turn 29 at the end of 2011. Historically, the drop-off for running backs is at age 30. Benson may be decent in 2011, but the end is certainly near.

Signing Benson to anything more than a two-year deal would be crazy. Even then, expecting a better season than the 2010 season Benson just put up will only lead to disappointment.