After watching Michigan's first 3 games (including the exhibition) I thought this team had some pieces, but scoring was going to be a concern (like many on here), I thought Michigan was going to have the same issues with Villanova they had in the NC game. However after watching them dismantle Villanova last night, I am not concerned with Michigan's offense. Their defense is suffocating! Michigan will not need to try to run and out score opponents if they can keep up with the defensive intensity. Scoring in the 60's and low 70's will do. I think this team's pieces fit together really well. Not many standing around waiting for others to do something on offense. Everyone is moving and doing their parts.
I think Poole will have a huge season, I hope to see Mathews continue to be aggressive and I think Brazdeikis is more prepared to play right now, than Wagner was as a freshmen. I realize they are different type of players, but Iggy can drive the ball and create his shots. It took Moe a couple years to learn how to do that. I like what Livers and Brooks bring to the floor. I think Brooks could be a good guard, not sold on him running the offense. But with a couple players on the floor with him at the same time who can help bring the ball up the court I think he will be an added benefit to help with some relief minutes at the 1 spot. Plus we have Big Jon Teske! He is what I hoped Ricky Doyle could have turned into in Ann Arbor. Big long body and a presence in the paint on defense. Not to forget what I believe is the key player to the success of the team this season, the Z factor: Zavier Simpson! Coach knows how to find his PGs. I am not concerned about Simpson's out side shooting and FT misses, he more than makes up for it with his defense and ability to run the offense. He makes it look too damn easy. He needs to continue to be aggressive toward the hoop and good things will happen for the team!
I think the pieces are there for a very special season. It is way too early, but dare we say this team may be better than last year's? Time will tell.
Looking ahead a bit...
If Michigan can carry over their effectiveness on both ends of the court from last night up to Connecticut and win a couple games in their Tip-Off Tournament, they come home for a tune-up game prior to playing North Carolina at Crisler!
Then we have Purdue at home (which they look very tough) and Northwestern on the road (never an easy game) Then we have 6 straight home games. Including a possible rematch with South Carolina and finishing out the 6 game stretch with Indiana. The Big Ten looks very tough early on this season. Not seeing any "give me" games. Indiana will be a tough one.
Michigan could possibly be undefeated or a one loss team heading into Big Ten play and into the New Year.
Exciting times for Michigan sports. Go Blue!!
I think Poole will have a huge season, I hope to see Mathews continue to be aggressive and I think Brazdeikis is more prepared to play right now, than Wagner was as a freshmen. I realize they are different type of players, but Iggy can drive the ball and create his shots. It took Moe a couple years to learn how to do that. I like what Livers and Brooks bring to the floor. I think Brooks could be a good guard, not sold on him running the offense. But with a couple players on the floor with him at the same time who can help bring the ball up the court I think he will be an added benefit to help with some relief minutes at the 1 spot. Plus we have Big Jon Teske! He is what I hoped Ricky Doyle could have turned into in Ann Arbor. Big long body and a presence in the paint on defense. Not to forget what I believe is the key player to the success of the team this season, the Z factor: Zavier Simpson! Coach knows how to find his PGs. I am not concerned about Simpson's out side shooting and FT misses, he more than makes up for it with his defense and ability to run the offense. He makes it look too damn easy. He needs to continue to be aggressive toward the hoop and good things will happen for the team!
I think the pieces are there for a very special season. It is way too early, but dare we say this team may be better than last year's? Time will tell.
Looking ahead a bit...
If Michigan can carry over their effectiveness on both ends of the court from last night up to Connecticut and win a couple games in their Tip-Off Tournament, they come home for a tune-up game prior to playing North Carolina at Crisler!
Then we have Purdue at home (which they look very tough) and Northwestern on the road (never an easy game) Then we have 6 straight home games. Including a possible rematch with South Carolina and finishing out the 6 game stretch with Indiana. The Big Ten looks very tough early on this season. Not seeing any "give me" games. Indiana will be a tough one.
Michigan could possibly be undefeated or a one loss team heading into Big Ten play and into the New Year.
Exciting times for Michigan sports. Go Blue!!
