We'll have lots on the UMass game coming up, but I wanted you to tell you now to take a minute Saturday and read the piece I've written about the end of "The Streak."
I know there's a segment of CCSU fans who get riled up whenever the "Evil Empire" is mentioned, but if you can't appreciate what they did, read my piece and give me a chance to change your mind.
Now, as a late Christmas present, I will give you all a statement to debate. I'm sure I'll see it on the messageboards, but I'd love to get your comments here or at my email at mstraubblog@hotmail.com.
Ready?
While UConn's women would lose to every men's DI team, Maya Moore herself could absolutely play in the NEC.
With that, I want to wish you all a very happy new year and beg you all to be careful tonight, especially the CCSU students who might read this. Please, please, please don't drink and drive. If you've had too many, call a cab, catch a ride, or crash wherever you are for the night. There's no shame in any of those. There's lots of shame in what could happen if you don't do any of the above.
I'll talk to you all in 2011. It's starting to look like we'll have much to discuss, perhaps into March.
Brown wrap up
Howie Dickenman said this performance was even better than the UNH game, and it's hard to argue. There were more people involved tonight and the Blue Devils looked crisper. Now you'll say they didn't do it against good teams, but good teams are supposed to pound bad ones at home, and that's what Central has done the last two games.
More importantly, the Blue Devils will be feeling confident heading into the UMass game.
To review the earlier post about Justin Alexander and the 37 earlier posts about Ken Horton: Alexander was ill and Horton had a cramp. He expects to be fine for UMass.
Let's play man-to-man.
De'Angelo Speech: Had probably his worst game, picking up five turnovers and not doing much else useful, but he's been so good that we'll cut him some slack tonight. Still, he can't play like that too often and keep his starting job.
Joe Efese: Started for Markeys Deans, according to Dickenman, so Central could win the tip. Dickenman said Efese had been 7 for 7 on tips in the morning shootaround, so he gave him the start. Efese won the tip, but I don't know that I buy the story completely. I think Dickenman was just covering for Deans a little bit. The senior has been struggling of late after a wonderful start to the year. Efese was certainly aggressive, getting five fouls in 14 minutes, but did some of the things that had everyone so high on him before the year. The two blocks were a great sign.
Devan Bailey: Played great defense on Patrick Sullivan and made two of his three shots. A missed free throw and two turnovers in 31 minutes aren't much to complain about.
Robby Ptacek: Fantastic. Aggressive. 18 points and eight boards. Missed a couple more shots than you'd like, but gave a really nice showing. Wouldn't take the bait either when I asked him afterwords if his slump earlier in the year was because of the toe/ankle issues.
Ken Horton: If he could have made a three this would have been one of those historic showings. Instead he had to "settle" for 17, with seven boards, four assists and four steals. Even if one of those steals seemed more like a tackle from my view on the other side of the court, it was a great two-way game for Horton. His ability to make that big-to-big pass changes the whole offense, especially against smaller teams.
Markeys Deans: His one minute played lends credence to my theory that Efese's return to the starting lineup was about more than the opening tip. He will be heard from again before the year is over.
Vince Rosario: Stuck a three and had a steal in seven minutes. Pretty much exactly what he's supposed to do.
Shemik Thompson: Back in the facemask, Thompson was solid. Six boards, five assists, six points, only 2 TOs. A picture of poise.
Mark Laporte: The crowd would have exploded if he'd stuck his shot.
Chris Baskerville: His best game in who knows how long. 21 minutes, 3-for-4 from the floor, seven points, four boards. Terrific energy. Probably earned more time Monday night.
Terrell Allen: Four points, four boards and a block in 13 minutes? Wow. Did everything Speech usually does. This is probably the deepest CCSU team I can remember in my nearly seven years on the beat.
More importantly, the Blue Devils will be feeling confident heading into the UMass game.
To review the earlier post about Justin Alexander and the 37 earlier posts about Ken Horton: Alexander was ill and Horton had a cramp. He expects to be fine for UMass.
Let's play man-to-man.
De'Angelo Speech: Had probably his worst game, picking up five turnovers and not doing much else useful, but he's been so good that we'll cut him some slack tonight. Still, he can't play like that too often and keep his starting job.
Joe Efese: Started for Markeys Deans, according to Dickenman, so Central could win the tip. Dickenman said Efese had been 7 for 7 on tips in the morning shootaround, so he gave him the start. Efese won the tip, but I don't know that I buy the story completely. I think Dickenman was just covering for Deans a little bit. The senior has been struggling of late after a wonderful start to the year. Efese was certainly aggressive, getting five fouls in 14 minutes, but did some of the things that had everyone so high on him before the year. The two blocks were a great sign.
Devan Bailey: Played great defense on Patrick Sullivan and made two of his three shots. A missed free throw and two turnovers in 31 minutes aren't much to complain about.
Robby Ptacek: Fantastic. Aggressive. 18 points and eight boards. Missed a couple more shots than you'd like, but gave a really nice showing. Wouldn't take the bait either when I asked him afterwords if his slump earlier in the year was because of the toe/ankle issues.
Ken Horton: If he could have made a three this would have been one of those historic showings. Instead he had to "settle" for 17, with seven boards, four assists and four steals. Even if one of those steals seemed more like a tackle from my view on the other side of the court, it was a great two-way game for Horton. His ability to make that big-to-big pass changes the whole offense, especially against smaller teams.
Markeys Deans: His one minute played lends credence to my theory that Efese's return to the starting lineup was about more than the opening tip. He will be heard from again before the year is over.
Vince Rosario: Stuck a three and had a steal in seven minutes. Pretty much exactly what he's supposed to do.
Shemik Thompson: Back in the facemask, Thompson was solid. Six boards, five assists, six points, only 2 TOs. A picture of poise.
Mark Laporte: The crowd would have exploded if he'd stuck his shot.
Chris Baskerville: His best game in who knows how long. 21 minutes, 3-for-4 from the floor, seven points, four boards. Terrific energy. Probably earned more time Monday night.
Terrell Allen: Four points, four boards and a block in 13 minutes? Wow. Did everything Speech usually does. This is probably the deepest CCSU team I can remember in my nearly seven years on the beat.
Taking attendence
Justin Alexander was sick tonight and stayed home, that's why he wasn't on the bench.
No discipline issue.
No discipline issue.
Horton is going to be fine
Ken Horton said after the game it was a cramp that caused his ankle issue, not a sprain or anything. He'll be fine for Monday.
Much more on tonight's game, which Howie Dickenman called the best of the year, later tonight.
Much more on tonight's game, which Howie Dickenman called the best of the year, later tonight.
False alarm No. 2
Hey folks, I just report what I see!
Horton's back. Clearly bothered, but not severely, but his lower right leg. I'll just update again if something serious happens. The time between now and Monday will be very big for him I imagine.
Horton's back. Clearly bothered, but not severely, but his lower right leg. I'll just update again if something serious happens. The time between now and Monday will be very big for him I imagine.
The watch begins
Central has this game well in hand, up 13 in the second half, so we'll watch 2 things the rest of the way.
1) Ken Horton just went out again. He's playing with his right foot, but he doesn't appear in agony.
2) Can Central keep this lead without him? Will they have to?
1) Ken Horton just went out again. He's playing with his right foot, but he doesn't appear in agony.
2) Can Central keep this lead without him? Will they have to?
Even better news
Paul Manwaring said something to Horton, who nodded positively.
I assume the question was something like "are you ok."
And he's going to inbound the ball. Crisis averted.
I assume the question was something like "are you ok."
And he's going to inbound the ball. Crisis averted.
Good news
Ken Horton came out of the second half with the team and is in the layup line.
Actually he just went back to the bench and is stretching his leg. Now he's jogging up the sideline. He's smiling and chatting with some people, though he's grimacing as he jogs.
We'll see.
Actually he just went back to the bench and is stretching his leg. Now he's jogging up the sideline. He's smiling and chatting with some people, though he's grimacing as he jogs.
We'll see.
Ken Horton update
Horton left with the team at the half (CCSU up 38-24) with a noticeable limp and a wrap on his right shin.
Potential problem
Another good half for Central came to a crashing halt with 1:03 left and Central up 35-24. Ken Horton took a charge and went down.
And stayed there.
He's now at the end of the bench, and Paul Manwaring is working on his right ankle.
It doesn't APPEAR too serious at the moment, but this would be the biggest development of the year if it's bad.
More ASAP.
And stayed there.
He's now at the end of the bench, and Paul Manwaring is working on his right ankle.
It doesn't APPEAR too serious at the moment, but this would be the biggest development of the year if it's bad.
More ASAP.
Lineup change
Joe Efese started tonight for the struggling Markeys Deans.
Shemik Thompson was the first one off the bench as usual.
Everyone is present and accounted for except Justin Alexander.
Shemik Thompson was the first one off the bench as usual.
Everyone is present and accounted for except Justin Alexander.
Schedule change for the women
Ole Miss won't get to the tournament at St. Peter's that Central is at, so the format is being changed to a 3-day round robin.
Central will now play Samford Wednesday night and St. Peter's Friday afternoon.
The Devils were set to play St Peter's Wednesday night and either Samford or Ole Miss Thursday night.
An answer
First off, I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and holiday season. We're back blogging now, so expect lots of updates as the season heats up.
By the way, while I can't take credit for it, I have the 1,000 point trivia answer.
Ken Horton (68 games) is the fastest to 1,000 points in CCSU's Division I history.
By the way, while I can't take credit for it, I have the 1,000 point trivia answer.
Ken Horton (68 games) is the fastest to 1,000 points in CCSU's Division I history.
A good question
Just wanted to let Matt, who should win our emailer of the year award, know that I'm chasing down his question: How many players got to 1,000 faster than Kenny Horton?
Will let you know when I know.
Will let you know when I know.
New Hampshire wrapup
CCSU coach Howie Dickenman called Wednesday night's effort the best Central has played in a "couple of years."
It was hard to argue. The Blue Devils, seemingly healthy again, appear on the verge of another run like they had to start the year. In fact, they need one. With four more home games to play in this homestand, the time is now to gain back some of the ground lost in the last 2 weeks. The UMass game and the first 2 NEC games at home are all huge, but the Brown game is big because Central needs to rack up wins before the big ones come.
To do that, Ken Horton and Shemik Thompson are going to have to produce like this consistently. But this game showed off Central's depth. Vince Rosario is back healthy and De'Angelo Speech continues to get better.
It's incredibly unfair to do the kind of comparative score exorcises we're all tempted to do, but let's do it anyway: UNH led UConn in the second half. Central just smacked UNH. Just saying. Central should have beaten Dayton and looked great tonight against a team that, on its best night at least, can play with the big boys, too. Things are suddenly looking up again at Detrick.
To see how that happened, let's do another exorcise I call man-to-man.
Markeys Deans: He scored well and efficiently, but didn't play much against UNH's big front line. His production has decreased of late, but when he's the 4th or 5th option, you're in good shape.
De'Angelo Speech: Terrific performance. Six assists, no turnovers and a steal in 26 minutes. He hasn't figured out the offense yet, but he does a bunch of things and provides energy.
Devan Bailey: Four assists, only one turnover, and two blocks. Another example of a player who is limited offensively but finds ways to contribute. A team can't afford too many of those, but a couple of "glue guy" types help any team.
Robby Ptacek: Interesting that he didn't get to the foul line a game after committing a couple of charges, but he played pretty well. Four turnovers, but his three steals led to huge fast breaks. Two in particular came during the the big run that put Central ahead for good.
Ken Horton: Another great effort, including his 1,000th point. Got the ball inside against some big boys in blue, and grabbed 8 boards. On the other end he had 3 blocks. Didn't go crazy with 3-point tries. Really well done.
Vince Rosario: Reports of his demise have been greatly exaggerated. He returned to the rotation and looked like his old self, getting up six shots in 14 minutes.
Shemik Thompson: Howie Dickenman said after the game that he planned on keeping Thompson in the spark off the bench role, and he was a spark Wednesday. He immediately changed the game when he came in about 3 minutes in, and I think you'll continue to see him in this role. It will ruin his career starts numbers, but for now it might be the best for the team, particularly if he's going to play like this. 15 assists and 3 turnovers in the last 2 games.
Mark Laporte: Welcome to the blog young man. The biggest mistake Rosario made in the game was not getting Laporte the ball on that fast break near the end.
Joe Efese: Dickenman begged for more aggression from him after Sunday's game and got it last night. Six points and 4 boards in 11 minutes is a good start.
Chris Baskerville: Good to see him on the floor. Five minutes is a start, and two boards. If he can ever give Central another presence inside, it would be a huge help.
Terrell Allen: A little bit of everything in 14 minutes. As Speech develops into a starter on this team, Allen will have to go into Speech's all-purpose role.
It was hard to argue. The Blue Devils, seemingly healthy again, appear on the verge of another run like they had to start the year. In fact, they need one. With four more home games to play in this homestand, the time is now to gain back some of the ground lost in the last 2 weeks. The UMass game and the first 2 NEC games at home are all huge, but the Brown game is big because Central needs to rack up wins before the big ones come.
To do that, Ken Horton and Shemik Thompson are going to have to produce like this consistently. But this game showed off Central's depth. Vince Rosario is back healthy and De'Angelo Speech continues to get better.
It's incredibly unfair to do the kind of comparative score exorcises we're all tempted to do, but let's do it anyway: UNH led UConn in the second half. Central just smacked UNH. Just saying. Central should have beaten Dayton and looked great tonight against a team that, on its best night at least, can play with the big boys, too. Things are suddenly looking up again at Detrick.
To see how that happened, let's do another exorcise I call man-to-man.
Markeys Deans: He scored well and efficiently, but didn't play much against UNH's big front line. His production has decreased of late, but when he's the 4th or 5th option, you're in good shape.
De'Angelo Speech: Terrific performance. Six assists, no turnovers and a steal in 26 minutes. He hasn't figured out the offense yet, but he does a bunch of things and provides energy.
Devan Bailey: Four assists, only one turnover, and two blocks. Another example of a player who is limited offensively but finds ways to contribute. A team can't afford too many of those, but a couple of "glue guy" types help any team.
Robby Ptacek: Interesting that he didn't get to the foul line a game after committing a couple of charges, but he played pretty well. Four turnovers, but his three steals led to huge fast breaks. Two in particular came during the the big run that put Central ahead for good.
Ken Horton: Another great effort, including his 1,000th point. Got the ball inside against some big boys in blue, and grabbed 8 boards. On the other end he had 3 blocks. Didn't go crazy with 3-point tries. Really well done.
Vince Rosario: Reports of his demise have been greatly exaggerated. He returned to the rotation and looked like his old self, getting up six shots in 14 minutes.
Shemik Thompson: Howie Dickenman said after the game that he planned on keeping Thompson in the spark off the bench role, and he was a spark Wednesday. He immediately changed the game when he came in about 3 minutes in, and I think you'll continue to see him in this role. It will ruin his career starts numbers, but for now it might be the best for the team, particularly if he's going to play like this. 15 assists and 3 turnovers in the last 2 games.
Mark Laporte: Welcome to the blog young man. The biggest mistake Rosario made in the game was not getting Laporte the ball on that fast break near the end.
Joe Efese: Dickenman begged for more aggression from him after Sunday's game and got it last night. Six points and 4 boards in 11 minutes is a good start.
Chris Baskerville: Good to see him on the floor. Five minutes is a start, and two boards. If he can ever give Central another presence inside, it would be a huge help.
Terrell Allen: A little bit of everything in 14 minutes. As Speech develops into a starter on this team, Allen will have to go into Speech's all-purpose role.
Under wraps
This one is long since over, so I'm putting the blog to bed to do postgame stuff. Will have much more later tonight. You'll probably read it tomorrow, unless you're nuts like me and are up late thinking about basketball.
History
With just under 13 minutes left, Ken Horton hit a three to give him 17 tonight and 1,000 for his career. He is the 33rd Blue Devil to reach 1,000 and the second this year (Shemik Thompson). the last time two players did it in one year was 2007, when three did it. Central danced that year.
Nugget of the half
CCSU led 35-10 a second ago, its biggest lead of the year so far. The previous mark was 19 at Army.
Stat of the season
With 3:59 left in the half, UNH has nine fouls and 10 points.
It goes to show that you can't use a game as an indication of a team. But that works both ways. The Wildcats aren't as good at they were at Gampel last month, but they're not this bad either.
And remember, CCSU held FDU to 14 points in the first half less than three weeks ago and lost the game.
32-10 CCSU, 3:59 left in the half.
It's the Shemik Thompson show. He has 12, 4 and 4.
It goes to show that you can't use a game as an indication of a team. But that works both ways. The Wildcats aren't as good at they were at Gampel last month, but they're not this bad either.
And remember, CCSU held FDU to 14 points in the first half less than three weeks ago and lost the game.
32-10 CCSU, 3:59 left in the half.
It's the Shemik Thompson show. He has 12, 4 and 4.
Great start
10 of Central's first 16 points came off turnovers, and the Blue Devils did a brilliant job turning steals into fast breaks on the way to a 16-4 lead at the 12:38 mark.
This UNH team looks totally different from the one that scared UConn.
This UNH team looks totally different from the one that scared UConn.
Two on Vince Rosario
First, to the commenter's question: Vince Rosario is a junior eligibility wise, not a senior.
Second, so much for his injury appearing to be getting worse. He just checked in.
Second, so much for his injury appearing to be getting worse. He just checked in.
Unrelated correction
The other day when talking about the CCSU women I said they lost at the buzzer last year to UNH. That was the season opener at Maine, who hit a three with 5 seconds left. Central beat UNH last year.
My bad.
My bad.
Rosario's status
CCSU's game notes for Wednesday's game have Vince Rosario listed as "out indefinitely" with that hip injury.
I just checked in and the Blue Devils are not sure if he will return this season.
This isn't a season-ending kind of thing for the Blue Devils, but it's always nice to have another shooter available.
I just checked in and the Blue Devils are not sure if he will return this season.
This isn't a season-ending kind of thing for the Blue Devils, but it's always nice to have another shooter available.
Niagara wrapup
Forgive the delay in getting his up, last night's work took longer than expected.
As for the game, well, I asked for it, I got it.
For a while now I've been hinting that Ken Horton needed to put the cape on and go back to being Ken Horton at the end of one of these close games. Sunday afternoon, he did just that. Robby Ptacek had been brilliant and Shemik Thompson played a big part at the end as well, but Horton looked willing to take over the game for the first time in a while, which is what was needed.
Central's defense was lacking at times, especially in the half court as the Purple Eagles got in the back door on too many occasions, but you can't complain about a win too much.
We learned a couple things in the post game press conference that I'll get to below, but there was one big thing we learned above all else.
Central needed to win one of these close games, and it did so. I think home court will make a huge difference going forward. If CCSU gets hot over these next 5, the whole tenor of the season could change again.
Especially if Ken Horton keeps the cape.
Let's go man-t0-man.
Markeys Deans: Couldn't score the ball (missed 10 shots), but managed to contribute in other ways, getting 8 boards, two steals and a block. When Ptacek and Horton are going offensively, he doesn't need to score 20 every night like he had been when those guys were struggling.
De'Angelo Speech: When your fouls are your highest number in a night it's not a great game. Still, he contributed.
Devan Bailey: Solid all-around game. Assists, steals, rebounds and minutes. Did his job.
Robby Ptacek: Brilliant. Attacked the rim, made pullups, got to the line and made free throws. If he can figure out how to do all that without committing as many fouls, particularly offensive ones, he'll be onto something. Still, 23 points and 9 at the line is a great night.
Ken Horton: He played like The Franchise, especially late. What I liked about him (and always have) is that he can pick his spots to take over. He doesn't need to take the ball from Ptacek or Thompson to get his offense. He can let them be hot, then take it back when they cool off, or in this case when Ptacek fouled out. He didn't overkill it with threes, either.
10 rebounds and a huge block late as well. Just a spectacular all-around game. Took 20 shots, but they were mostly within the offense. Not that anyone minds.
"If he wants to take 20 shots, go ahead," Howie Dickenman said after the game.
Shemik Thompson: He said after the game he's been hurt lately, which had something to do with his poor play. But still made sure to mention that he needed to be better, even when banged up, which I like about him. Apparently he's healthy now. Howie said he was going to play him in short spurts, but that he looked good enough to leave him out there longer. And Thompson responded with his best effort. 10 assists, three steals, 1 turnover, four free throws, including the big ones. Fantastic effort by the leader.
Joe Efese: The other thing we learned was that Dickenman isn't holding Efese back because he's still hurt, but because he wants him to be more aggressive. He was brilliant in the morning shootaround, but didn't get going in the game. Dickenman wants him to go out and be aggressive, even if it means he commits some fouls. I'd love to see him send one into the stands and let out a yell Wednesday night. It might kick start him.
Terrell Allen: Five points, two boards, a steal and a block in 12 minutes, including a huge layup (off a great feed from Thompson) late. Kind of took Speech's energy role at least for a night.
As for the game, well, I asked for it, I got it.
For a while now I've been hinting that Ken Horton needed to put the cape on and go back to being Ken Horton at the end of one of these close games. Sunday afternoon, he did just that. Robby Ptacek had been brilliant and Shemik Thompson played a big part at the end as well, but Horton looked willing to take over the game for the first time in a while, which is what was needed.
Central's defense was lacking at times, especially in the half court as the Purple Eagles got in the back door on too many occasions, but you can't complain about a win too much.
We learned a couple things in the post game press conference that I'll get to below, but there was one big thing we learned above all else.
Central needed to win one of these close games, and it did so. I think home court will make a huge difference going forward. If CCSU gets hot over these next 5, the whole tenor of the season could change again.
Especially if Ken Horton keeps the cape.
Let's go man-t0-man.
Markeys Deans: Couldn't score the ball (missed 10 shots), but managed to contribute in other ways, getting 8 boards, two steals and a block. When Ptacek and Horton are going offensively, he doesn't need to score 20 every night like he had been when those guys were struggling.
De'Angelo Speech: When your fouls are your highest number in a night it's not a great game. Still, he contributed.
Devan Bailey: Solid all-around game. Assists, steals, rebounds and minutes. Did his job.
Robby Ptacek: Brilliant. Attacked the rim, made pullups, got to the line and made free throws. If he can figure out how to do all that without committing as many fouls, particularly offensive ones, he'll be onto something. Still, 23 points and 9 at the line is a great night.
Ken Horton: He played like The Franchise, especially late. What I liked about him (and always have) is that he can pick his spots to take over. He doesn't need to take the ball from Ptacek or Thompson to get his offense. He can let them be hot, then take it back when they cool off, or in this case when Ptacek fouled out. He didn't overkill it with threes, either.
10 rebounds and a huge block late as well. Just a spectacular all-around game. Took 20 shots, but they were mostly within the offense. Not that anyone minds.
"If he wants to take 20 shots, go ahead," Howie Dickenman said after the game.
Shemik Thompson: He said after the game he's been hurt lately, which had something to do with his poor play. But still made sure to mention that he needed to be better, even when banged up, which I like about him. Apparently he's healthy now. Howie said he was going to play him in short spurts, but that he looked good enough to leave him out there longer. And Thompson responded with his best effort. 10 assists, three steals, 1 turnover, four free throws, including the big ones. Fantastic effort by the leader.
Joe Efese: The other thing we learned was that Dickenman isn't holding Efese back because he's still hurt, but because he wants him to be more aggressive. He was brilliant in the morning shootaround, but didn't get going in the game. Dickenman wants him to go out and be aggressive, even if it means he commits some fouls. I'd love to see him send one into the stands and let out a yell Wednesday night. It might kick start him.
Terrell Allen: Five points, two boards, a steal and a block in 12 minutes, including a huge layup (off a great feed from Thompson) late. Kind of took Speech's energy role at least for a night.
Central survives
Central wins thanks to Horton and Thompson carrying the Blue Devils over the finish line.
Much more to come later tonight after my desk job is done and stories are written.
Much more to come later tonight after my desk job is done and stories are written.
Mark the time
Robby Ptacek fouls out with CCSU up 4 and 5:25 left. We'll see how this plays out.
It's Horton time for Central.
It's Horton time for Central.
Barnburner
Central hanging on to a 3-point lead with 7:03 left in, dare I say, regulation.
23 for Ptacek, 17 for Horton, who made the play of the year by a Blue Devil early in the half when he reached out for an errant alley-oop pass from Shemik Thompson and put up a floater as he fell out of bounds, which went in.
23 for Ptacek, 17 for Horton, who made the play of the year by a Blue Devil early in the half when he reached out for an errant alley-oop pass from Shemik Thompson and put up a floater as he fell out of bounds, which went in.
Getting going again
Central hanging in, tied at the half at 36. Horton and Ptacek leading Central, which continues to give up too many easy buckets.
Breaking the rule
CCSU coach Howie Dickenman is a big believer in the "Calhoun rule," where a player with 2 fouls in the first half sits for the rest of the half. He's been more lenient with it of late, including today, where he has left Robby Ptacek in with two fouls. It has worked, as Robby has 13 points.
27 all, 3:48 left in the half.
27 all, 3:48 left in the half.
Back and forth
Central has six points off Niagra turnovers in the first eight minutes and has needed them all to stay close during a Purple Eagle assault. They ran crisp offense early to get a lead, then made their way outside to hit their first three tries from distance on the way to a 19-14 edge.
Ken Horton is 3-for-4 for Central, which has a surprising 12 points in the paint. Devils trail 20-18 at the 10:18 mark.
Ken Horton is 3-for-4 for Central, which has a surprising 12 points in the paint. Devils trail 20-18 at the 10:18 mark.
Taking attendance
Vince Rosario is in street clothes, as in Justin Alexander. Everyone else is present and accounted for.
A couple of men's roster notes
It's only 2:17, but I can give you a couple of things I've heard so far today.
Joe Efese should be ready to go extended minutes today, though Vince Rosario may not be.
Also, and I'll ask Howie this at some point soon, but it sounds more and more like Dave Simmons will not be back this year.
Joe Efese should be ready to go extended minutes today, though Vince Rosario may not be.
Also, and I'll ask Howie this at some point soon, but it sounds more and more like Dave Simmons will not be back this year.
Back on board
So I have a mailbag ready to go, but I haven't gotten to it because of desk stuff (you all should check out our upcoming All-Herald section if you know any kids in the area), but I'm back and and ready now for a big week for the Devils. The men start 6 straight at home this afternoon, and the women look to continue their best start in decades today (already up 5-0 on UNH, who nipped them at the buzzer last year).
I'll be checking in throughout the day and will have our wrap up after the men's game tonight.
I'll be checking in throughout the day and will have our wrap up after the men's game tonight.
Albany wrap up
Here we go again.
Two years ago Central lost at Albany at the buzzer after wipiing out a huge second-half deficit. I wrote an impassioned blog that night about how unfair the game can be, as Central had lost at the buzzer for the second consecutive game. My position was, you come from 18 down in the second half on the road, you deserve to win the game.
It's amazing, scary really, how similar last night was to 2008. Central came to Albany coming off a loss at the buzzer in its previous game (though this time it was CCSU's miss, not the opponent's make at the end). Central trailed by 18 in the second half (seriously, the exact same deficit). Last time, Central rallied to take a four-point lead with less than a minute left. This time, the Blue Devils stormed back to take a three-point lead with just over two minutes left. The final that night was 68-67. The final this time was 64-63.
I give you this last similarity not to pick on one player, but just to drive home the EERIE similarities between the last two times Central has been to Albany: Last time, Robby Ptacek, trapped in the corner, committed a turnover with 8 seconds left, giving Albany its last shot. This time, he committed a turnover, an offensive foul, with four seconds left that gave Albany the free throws that sealed it. Really bizarre stuff.
Anyway, that's where the similarities end. Because the mood after the two games is much different. At least mine is.
Two years ago, I felt bad for the Blue Devils. This time, I have to wonder when Central is going to stop giving games away. Perhaps that phrasing is too harsh, but it's time for Central to step up in critical situations and put a game away. The Blue Devils have lost four straight. The last three have been by 2, 2 and 1. And the fourth game, while eventually a rout, Central led in the second half.
Yes Joe Efese has missed most of that time and Robby Ptacek has been banged up. And in the grand scheme of things, only the FDU loss matters. But Central's psyche likely hangs in the balance here. This could quickly start to spiral if the Blue Devils don't get something resembling a killer instinct and put a game away late. It just seems like the losses are feeding off each other. Remember the team that came back from 10 or more down so often early in the year? Where did it go? And more importantly, when is Central going to stop waiting until it's down 10 to start scoring?
The good news is that Central now comes home for six straight at Detrick, a stretch that could define the season. Maybe the luck they've been missing is waiting for the Devils in New Britain. This is the time when Howie Dickenman has to coach and Shemik Thompson has to lead. It's time for Central to win a close game, and it's time to get the spirit back before this year becomes too similar to the last couple.
Plenty of time for a few mailbags and a live chat before the 19th. We just have to pick a time for the chat, and you guys need to keep hitting my inbox at mstraubblog@hotmail.com to get my answers. It might take me a couple days as we have a million things to do this week in the office, but I'll get to everything.
Let's go man-to-man.
Markeys Deans: He was due for a poor offensive game. Didn't score a ton, but had 3 assists and didn't take too many shots. One turnover, which he made up for with a steal. A so-so night.
Ken Horton: Picked it up in the second half, was efficient, led the team in rebounding and had a block. Showed signs of becoming the go-to-guy again. But Central needs more than flashes of the old Kenny. The Blue Devils need Kenny.
Shemik Thompson: The big part of the year is coming, it's time for the leader to start making shots. His turnovers were down, however, just three in 30 minutes.
Devan Bailey: All year I've talked about how he has at worst given Central a bunch of minutes without hurting the team. This time, he had a technical foul that hurt the team. Albany made one of 2 at the line. Central lost by one. Not saying that one play was the difference, but it sure didn't help. Four turnovers, too. Not a good night.
Robby Ptacek: I really hated mentioning the turnover earlier because he was so good. 26 points, aggressive, got to the line and made his free throws.
De'Angelo Speech: Still making a few too many mistakes, but he's being asked to do a lot for a freshman. His energy is still a plus for this team I feel.
Joe Efese: Only played three minutes, but had a block. The question is when can he play more?
Chris Baskerville: As one of my favorite high school coaches says, "zeroes across the board." Seriously, there are 15 different places on the stat sheet in front of me in which a player can put up a number, and in this case they're all 0's. I'm not even picking on him, because he only played three minutes, but it's still odd to see.
Terrell Allen: All zeros except for a foul. Not good, but again, only six minutes. Dickenman went with a short bench tonight.
Justin Alexander: Got in for 40 seconds. It's a start. Everyone tells me he's going to be a player someday, so let him get his feet wet.
Two years ago Central lost at Albany at the buzzer after wipiing out a huge second-half deficit. I wrote an impassioned blog that night about how unfair the game can be, as Central had lost at the buzzer for the second consecutive game. My position was, you come from 18 down in the second half on the road, you deserve to win the game.
It's amazing, scary really, how similar last night was to 2008. Central came to Albany coming off a loss at the buzzer in its previous game (though this time it was CCSU's miss, not the opponent's make at the end). Central trailed by 18 in the second half (seriously, the exact same deficit). Last time, Central rallied to take a four-point lead with less than a minute left. This time, the Blue Devils stormed back to take a three-point lead with just over two minutes left. The final that night was 68-67. The final this time was 64-63.
I give you this last similarity not to pick on one player, but just to drive home the EERIE similarities between the last two times Central has been to Albany: Last time, Robby Ptacek, trapped in the corner, committed a turnover with 8 seconds left, giving Albany its last shot. This time, he committed a turnover, an offensive foul, with four seconds left that gave Albany the free throws that sealed it. Really bizarre stuff.
Anyway, that's where the similarities end. Because the mood after the two games is much different. At least mine is.
Two years ago, I felt bad for the Blue Devils. This time, I have to wonder when Central is going to stop giving games away. Perhaps that phrasing is too harsh, but it's time for Central to step up in critical situations and put a game away. The Blue Devils have lost four straight. The last three have been by 2, 2 and 1. And the fourth game, while eventually a rout, Central led in the second half.
Yes Joe Efese has missed most of that time and Robby Ptacek has been banged up. And in the grand scheme of things, only the FDU loss matters. But Central's psyche likely hangs in the balance here. This could quickly start to spiral if the Blue Devils don't get something resembling a killer instinct and put a game away late. It just seems like the losses are feeding off each other. Remember the team that came back from 10 or more down so often early in the year? Where did it go? And more importantly, when is Central going to stop waiting until it's down 10 to start scoring?
The good news is that Central now comes home for six straight at Detrick, a stretch that could define the season. Maybe the luck they've been missing is waiting for the Devils in New Britain. This is the time when Howie Dickenman has to coach and Shemik Thompson has to lead. It's time for Central to win a close game, and it's time to get the spirit back before this year becomes too similar to the last couple.
Plenty of time for a few mailbags and a live chat before the 19th. We just have to pick a time for the chat, and you guys need to keep hitting my inbox at mstraubblog@hotmail.com to get my answers. It might take me a couple days as we have a million things to do this week in the office, but I'll get to everything.
Let's go man-to-man.
Markeys Deans: He was due for a poor offensive game. Didn't score a ton, but had 3 assists and didn't take too many shots. One turnover, which he made up for with a steal. A so-so night.
Ken Horton: Picked it up in the second half, was efficient, led the team in rebounding and had a block. Showed signs of becoming the go-to-guy again. But Central needs more than flashes of the old Kenny. The Blue Devils need Kenny.
Shemik Thompson: The big part of the year is coming, it's time for the leader to start making shots. His turnovers were down, however, just three in 30 minutes.
Devan Bailey: All year I've talked about how he has at worst given Central a bunch of minutes without hurting the team. This time, he had a technical foul that hurt the team. Albany made one of 2 at the line. Central lost by one. Not saying that one play was the difference, but it sure didn't help. Four turnovers, too. Not a good night.
Robby Ptacek: I really hated mentioning the turnover earlier because he was so good. 26 points, aggressive, got to the line and made his free throws.
De'Angelo Speech: Still making a few too many mistakes, but he's being asked to do a lot for a freshman. His energy is still a plus for this team I feel.
Joe Efese: Only played three minutes, but had a block. The question is when can he play more?
Chris Baskerville: As one of my favorite high school coaches says, "zeroes across the board." Seriously, there are 15 different places on the stat sheet in front of me in which a player can put up a number, and in this case they're all 0's. I'm not even picking on him, because he only played three minutes, but it's still odd to see.
Terrell Allen: All zeros except for a foul. Not good, but again, only six minutes. Dickenman went with a short bench tonight.
Justin Alexander: Got in for 40 seconds. It's a start. Everyone tells me he's going to be a player someday, so let him get his feet wet.
Scouting report
I was trading scouting reports with my new friend Matt who does a blog about UA hoops, and I thought I'd give you his take on the Danes heading into the game Sat. night.
We'll have everything we usually do late at night tommorow, I have to make the paper and write up the CCSU thing.
Anyway, here's Matt's take on UA:
"Logan Aronhalt has been the story of the year, absolutely lighting a few team up when his stroke is falling. We haven't won a game yet when he hasn't gone on extended run where's he's draining from three. The key though is Mike Black, our quick point guard who has been working his way back from injury- we have NO depth at the pg position so we were helpless without him. He's still rusty, but he's almost 100% healthy, and should be able to push the ball. Tim Ambrose has been the whipping boy of the team the last couple year while forcing a lot of shots- but he had no help. This year, with Logan and Black stepping up, Ambrose has played his best ball ever, controlled, efficient, and still able to bully his way to the rim. The front court is youth, youth, youth. Two freshman start, Devlin and Puk, and sophomore Metcalf comes off the bench. None have proven a real threat to score. Devlin has potential to get hot from three, but we've only seen it once. Puk is athletic, but still raw, and Metcalf is a solid rebounder with a handful of post moves."
We'll have everything we usually do late at night tommorow, I have to make the paper and write up the CCSU thing.
Anyway, here's Matt's take on UA:
"Logan Aronhalt has been the story of the year, absolutely lighting a few team up when his stroke is falling. We haven't won a game yet when he hasn't gone on extended run where's he's draining from three. The key though is Mike Black, our quick point guard who has been working his way back from injury- we have NO depth at the pg position so we were helpless without him. He's still rusty, but he's almost 100% healthy, and should be able to push the ball. Tim Ambrose has been the whipping boy of the team the last couple year while forcing a lot of shots- but he had no help. This year, with Logan and Black stepping up, Ambrose has played his best ball ever, controlled, efficient, and still able to bully his way to the rim. The front court is youth, youth, youth. Two freshman start, Devlin and Puk, and sophomore Metcalf comes off the bench. None have proven a real threat to score. Devlin has potential to get hot from three, but we've only seen it once. Puk is athletic, but still raw, and Metcalf is a solid rebounder with a handful of post moves."
Dayton wrap up
Ah, the breaks of basketball. Central has played poorly and won a time or two already this year and tonight plays great against a big name opponent and can't get the W.
So on a night where Central fails to cash in its "get out of the play-in game free" card and I didn't get to meet Triple H, let's, well, as "the Game" would say, break it down.
The cynic will say this was another game in which Central blew a lead and let it a big win slip away, and he or she would be right. To play at Dayton without a starter (Joe Efese) and a rotation guy Vince Rosario, who missed the game with a hip injury) and still have a chance to win is an opportunity you can't miss out on.
The optimist, however, would say "Central was up much of the night at Dayton without Joe Efese or Vince Rosario," and he or she would also be right. That's the fun of sports, you can argue both sides of things and usually be right.
Especially someone like me, who frequently argues with himself about both sides of an issue. If you're a Blue Devil on that plane right now, I think you're crushed you let it get away. But you got some confidence back after the loss to FDU. I think, IF Central can couple tonight's effort with a win at Albany, they will have some major confidence heading into the homestand.
With all that said, let's play a little man-to-man. By the way, to those who ask, I usually just go in order of how the kids are listed on the box score I have in front of me as I do this.
Markeys Deans: Certainly a worthy player to start with. Yeah, he missed the last shot, but his performance was the main reason Central was in the game. 10-for-14, 2-of-3 from deep 8 boards and only one turnover in 32 minutes. Fantastic night.
Ken Horton: He did most of his damage early, which is good and bad. It's bad that he wasn't able to keep his great start going, but also good that his start helped Central get an early lead and confidence. No turnovers, but two missed freebies take points off his grade. Didn't shoot the ball great, but was also deferring a bit to Markeys.
Shemik Thompson: If his steal had led to Robby Ptacek's pass getting to him for a tying layup, it would have been the play of the year. He's struggling with his shot and I've come to accept that his TO total will be higher than you'd like this year because he has the ball so much, but he also had 6 assists and five boards. he'll start making shots eventually. When he does, Central could be on to something.
De'Angelo Speech: His failed box out a few moments before was more than made up for by his great pass to Deans for the would-be game-winner. He's doing a little bit of everything while learning on the fly. No complaints here, despite freshman mistakes.
Robby Ptacek: A phenomenal effort, bad toe and all. No rebounds, but his drives played a key part in Central's comeback late. He's tough as nails and can make an outside shot. That becomes even more of a pressing need if Rosario is out for a while.
Devan Bailey: Five assists and no turnovers in 22 minutes. If he does that, I don't care if he ever takes another shot.
Chris Baskerville: If he gets fully healthy it will be a big boost to the frontcourt, especially without Joe. He didn't do much, but he seems to be getting closer.
Terrell Allen: Filled in admirably on a tough stage. Nothing special, but not much negative about his 21 minutes, which is what you want from a freshman.
Nice to see the rotation growing, even if it is out of need for the moment. We'll figure out what the 10-man team is once everyone is back.
So on a night where Central fails to cash in its "get out of the play-in game free" card and I didn't get to meet Triple H, let's, well, as "the Game" would say, break it down.
The cynic will say this was another game in which Central blew a lead and let it a big win slip away, and he or she would be right. To play at Dayton without a starter (Joe Efese) and a rotation guy Vince Rosario, who missed the game with a hip injury) and still have a chance to win is an opportunity you can't miss out on.
The optimist, however, would say "Central was up much of the night at Dayton without Joe Efese or Vince Rosario," and he or she would also be right. That's the fun of sports, you can argue both sides of things and usually be right.
Especially someone like me, who frequently argues with himself about both sides of an issue. If you're a Blue Devil on that plane right now, I think you're crushed you let it get away. But you got some confidence back after the loss to FDU. I think, IF Central can couple tonight's effort with a win at Albany, they will have some major confidence heading into the homestand.
With all that said, let's play a little man-to-man. By the way, to those who ask, I usually just go in order of how the kids are listed on the box score I have in front of me as I do this.
Markeys Deans: Certainly a worthy player to start with. Yeah, he missed the last shot, but his performance was the main reason Central was in the game. 10-for-14, 2-of-3 from deep 8 boards and only one turnover in 32 minutes. Fantastic night.
Ken Horton: He did most of his damage early, which is good and bad. It's bad that he wasn't able to keep his great start going, but also good that his start helped Central get an early lead and confidence. No turnovers, but two missed freebies take points off his grade. Didn't shoot the ball great, but was also deferring a bit to Markeys.
Shemik Thompson: If his steal had led to Robby Ptacek's pass getting to him for a tying layup, it would have been the play of the year. He's struggling with his shot and I've come to accept that his TO total will be higher than you'd like this year because he has the ball so much, but he also had 6 assists and five boards. he'll start making shots eventually. When he does, Central could be on to something.
De'Angelo Speech: His failed box out a few moments before was more than made up for by his great pass to Deans for the would-be game-winner. He's doing a little bit of everything while learning on the fly. No complaints here, despite freshman mistakes.
Robby Ptacek: A phenomenal effort, bad toe and all. No rebounds, but his drives played a key part in Central's comeback late. He's tough as nails and can make an outside shot. That becomes even more of a pressing need if Rosario is out for a while.
Devan Bailey: Five assists and no turnovers in 22 minutes. If he does that, I don't care if he ever takes another shot.
Chris Baskerville: If he gets fully healthy it will be a big boost to the frontcourt, especially without Joe. He didn't do much, but he seems to be getting closer.
Terrell Allen: Filled in admirably on a tough stage. Nothing special, but not much negative about his 21 minutes, which is what you want from a freshman.
Nice to see the rotation growing, even if it is out of need for the moment. We'll figure out what the 10-man team is once everyone is back.
They got a look
Markeys Deans misses an open 3 that would have won it from the left wing. And I mean open.
Shemik had a tough fallaway from about 10 feet for a putback, but shot it too hard.
Central falls by 2. One more chance to win a "step up" game, that comes vs. UMass in New Britain.
Wrap up to come in a bit, let me write my story for the paper.
Shemik had a tough fallaway from about 10 feet for a putback, but shot it too hard.
Central falls by 2. One more chance to win a "step up" game, that comes vs. UMass in New Britain.
Wrap up to come in a bit, let me write my story for the paper.
One more shot
After a bad foul and another turnover by Dayton, Central gets the ball down 2 with 10 seconds left.
It doesn't look good
The game's been crazy and I've been taking notes, so I haven't been able to blog much.
After a night of great breaks, Central just got a bad one down 2 with less than 30 seconds left. Shemik Thompson got a steal in the backcourt and the ball rolled to Robby Ptacek, who tried to lob it back to Thompson. His pass was stolen, however, and Dayton made 2 free throws to make it 4 with 19.9 to go.
A dumb foul by Dayton however, and CCSU at the line. More to come.
After a night of great breaks, Central just got a bad one down 2 with less than 30 seconds left. Shemik Thompson got a steal in the backcourt and the ball rolled to Robby Ptacek, who tried to lob it back to Thompson. His pass was stolen, however, and Dayton made 2 free throws to make it 4 with 19.9 to go.
A dumb foul by Dayton however, and CCSU at the line. More to come.
Hang tight
I don't want to say Central is getting lucky because the Blue Devils are making shots, but they seem to score every time Dayton is on the verge of getting within striking distance.
Markeys Deans is shooting very, very well and Central has been clutch all night. The Devils are up 36-33 with 15:51 to go. This is about the time the Providence debacle happened, however, so we'll see if Central can stand up to a Flyer run we all assume is coming.
Markeys Deans is shooting very, very well and Central has been clutch all night. The Devils are up 36-33 with 15:51 to go. This is about the time the Providence debacle happened, however, so we'll see if Central can stand up to a Flyer run we all assume is coming.
Good first half
I'll try not to jinx it this time, but I have to report the truth. Central is up six at the half. Twice the Devils have caught big breaks: Markeys Deans his a three at the shot clock horn just as Dayton was making a run, and Shemik Thompson made a shot with one second left in the half.
Central is giving up too many open outside shots, but if the Flyers can't hit them, it's not a problem.
Central finished the half 9-for-16 from the floor, not bad without Joe Efese or Vince Rosario, both out tonight.
Now, the Flyers are going to make some shots. The question is, do the Blue Devils wilt form fatigue and deflation down the stretch, or do they hang tough and find a way to win a huge non-conference game?
I'll let you know.
I'm going to try and check in more in the second half, been doing a bit of everything so far.
Central is giving up too many open outside shots, but if the Flyers can't hit them, it's not a problem.
Central finished the half 9-for-16 from the floor, not bad without Joe Efese or Vince Rosario, both out tonight.
Now, the Flyers are going to make some shots. The question is, do the Blue Devils wilt form fatigue and deflation down the stretch, or do they hang tough and find a way to win a huge non-conference game?
I'll let you know.
I'm going to try and check in more in the second half, been doing a bit of everything so far.
off and running
Turns out I will be able to blog.
We'll see if Central can make a run with Chris Wright having two fouls for Dayton in the first four minutes.
We'll see if Central can make a run with Chris Wright having two fouls for Dayton in the first four minutes.
Checking in
Will write on here likely after the game tonight, not sure if I'll get to live blog during it. We'll see how the night goes.
But we'll do our postgame ritual on here for sure. Judging by the last two big games Central played vs. upper echelon teams, you'd have to expect this to go poorly, but we'll see.
But we'll do our postgame ritual on here for sure. Judging by the last two big games Central played vs. upper echelon teams, you'd have to expect this to go poorly, but we'll see.
Blame me for this one
So FDU was inspired by my halftime joke apparently. Either that or we've gone back in time to last year, when Central really struggled to score. Robby Ptacek is playing hurt and Joe Efese is out, but there should be enough bodies left to score more than 20 points in a half. This was the kind of game Ken Horton had to step up in. I know he was tired, but he needed to at least do more on offense. The same goes for Shemik Thompson. The two were a combined 6-for-21 from the floor... not what you need from your leaders when you're in trouble.
Getting Joe Efese back will be a big help, but someone has to carry the load in the meantime.
The good news is they have two more non-conference road games to go before they get to make some hay at home with six straight. Winning at Albany.
But first things, first. Let's play Central man-to-man.
Markeys Deans: Another solid game, though he did make some mistakes and was a non-factor inside. Offense, good. Everything else, well, it could have been better.
Ken Horton: Faded in the second half trying to keep the big guy off him while trying to carry the offense at the same time. NEEDS to have one of those stretches from the early part of two years ago before he got hurt where he just takes things over when no one else seems to be able to.
Shemik Thompson: He's been so good for so long that we'll cut him some slack for his recent play, but he's another guy that needs to step up.
Devan Bailey: Usually I'd give him credit for eating 12 more minutes, but on this day, someone had to do more than just hold the fort. The game wasn't his fault, but he didn't rescue them, either.
Robby Ptacek: He's back to being aggressive despite his toe issue, but he needs to make some shots now. Too many turnovers, too. But still, you have to be happy to get eight boards from him.
Vince Rosario: Coach Howie Dickenman was trying to show him that defense matters if you want playing time, but I'd like to have seen him get more than a play. My guess is Howie felt he wouldn't be able to keep Scott in front of him at all.
De'Angelo Speech: He's really growing on him. Still does some crazy freshman things on occasion, but he's a shot away from being a really good player right now. And he tends to make up for his mistakes with as many steals as he has turnovers.
Terrell Allen: Still learning the ropes. Not nearly as far along as Speech, but shows flashes.
Getting Joe Efese back will be a big help, but someone has to carry the load in the meantime.
The good news is they have two more non-conference road games to go before they get to make some hay at home with six straight. Winning at Albany.
But first things, first. Let's play Central man-to-man.
Markeys Deans: Another solid game, though he did make some mistakes and was a non-factor inside. Offense, good. Everything else, well, it could have been better.
Ken Horton: Faded in the second half trying to keep the big guy off him while trying to carry the offense at the same time. NEEDS to have one of those stretches from the early part of two years ago before he got hurt where he just takes things over when no one else seems to be able to.
Shemik Thompson: He's been so good for so long that we'll cut him some slack for his recent play, but he's another guy that needs to step up.
Devan Bailey: Usually I'd give him credit for eating 12 more minutes, but on this day, someone had to do more than just hold the fort. The game wasn't his fault, but he didn't rescue them, either.
Robby Ptacek: He's back to being aggressive despite his toe issue, but he needs to make some shots now. Too many turnovers, too. But still, you have to be happy to get eight boards from him.
Vince Rosario: Coach Howie Dickenman was trying to show him that defense matters if you want playing time, but I'd like to have seen him get more than a play. My guess is Howie felt he wouldn't be able to keep Scott in front of him at all.
De'Angelo Speech: He's really growing on him. Still does some crazy freshman things on occasion, but he's a shot away from being a really good player right now. And he tends to make up for his mistakes with as many steals as he has turnovers.
Terrell Allen: Still learning the ropes. Not nearly as far along as Speech, but shows flashes.
Wow
I apologize in advance to the Blue Devils if my joke about FDU's offense ended up being a jinx. Central's lead is down to 6 with 12 minutes left.
Halftime check
FDU can't get its guards going and Central has done a good enough job on the bigs to be up 26-14 at the break.
I'm going to make a prediction: Central will win every game this season in which it holds the opposition to 14 points in the first half.
I'm going to make a prediction: Central will win every game this season in which it holds the opposition to 14 points in the first half.
Checking in
I'll have your full recap, including our man-to-man segment, after the game tonight.
Central leads by 10 at FDU right now despite not even playing well. The Devils are turning the ball over left and right, but are winning with defense. FDU hasn't scored a field goal in about 8 minutes.
Central leads by 10 at FDU right now despite not even playing well. The Devils are turning the ball over left and right, but are winning with defense. FDU hasn't scored a field goal in about 8 minutes.
Finishing up football
As promised, a quick Q and A as I clean out my email during the last quiet week of the basketball season.
I got a couple of questions I've been asked about URI joining the NEC in football beginning in 2013. I'll paraphrase the questions in the interest of time and space.
Q: Can this be the start of a bigger raid by the NEC of the likes of Maine and UNH?
A: I don't see this as the start of a raid per se, but I've been saying for a year (maybe more) now that the CAA as presently constituted won't last. The travel budgets are growing as the economy shrinks, which doesn't make sense. And as northern teams pull out of the football league, it makes less and less sense for the teams that haven't jumped yet to stay.
I can see those teams joining together to form some kind of northern league or, sadly, dropping the sport like NU and Hofstra have done of late. If enough of these teams can't find people to play, it might make more sense to drop the sport.
It's been a while since I've seen URI play so I'll have to research it this summer, but my first instinct is to worry that the Rams will dominate the league. If that happens, I'm not sure how long the marriage lasts.
Q: Could this lead the NEC to go full scholarship?
A: The conventional wisdom out there has been that URI is doing this in part to have an excuse to have fewer scholarships. But I'm not sure it's a permanent move. The NEC has worked hard on increasing its scholarship numbers, however, and I feel that at the very least they'll meet in the middle. The NEC clearly wants to become credible in football, so I can't see it trying to limit growth. Of course URI will have to come down on its number to meet the NEC teams, but I think they're all going back up eventually.
Q: Do I think Stony Brook will come back to the NEC in football?
A: We live in an era where conferences are just groups of teams with no logic to be applied (see TCU to the Big East) but that model doesn't seem sustainable at the lower levels. Stony Brook in the Big South makes less than no sense. The NEC getting a bid to the FCS tournament was a game-changer, and if the NEC can keep attracting bigger name teams like URI, then Stony Brook might want back in. I can't speak to the terms on which they left in the boardroom, but I have learned over the years that money trumps feelings in college athletics, so I wouldn't rule anything out. My only thought is this: How many is too many teams? URI would be 10 (Bryant will be in by then) and you don't want to play anymore league games than that.
The only other option would be to boot the western teams like SFPA (PURE SPECULATION ON MY PART) if you intend on trying to add another couple of teams from around here. But I don't see that happening. I think, in the end, URI is THE move, not the start of many moves.
I got a couple of questions I've been asked about URI joining the NEC in football beginning in 2013. I'll paraphrase the questions in the interest of time and space.
Q: Can this be the start of a bigger raid by the NEC of the likes of Maine and UNH?
A: I don't see this as the start of a raid per se, but I've been saying for a year (maybe more) now that the CAA as presently constituted won't last. The travel budgets are growing as the economy shrinks, which doesn't make sense. And as northern teams pull out of the football league, it makes less and less sense for the teams that haven't jumped yet to stay.
I can see those teams joining together to form some kind of northern league or, sadly, dropping the sport like NU and Hofstra have done of late. If enough of these teams can't find people to play, it might make more sense to drop the sport.
It's been a while since I've seen URI play so I'll have to research it this summer, but my first instinct is to worry that the Rams will dominate the league. If that happens, I'm not sure how long the marriage lasts.
Q: Could this lead the NEC to go full scholarship?
A: The conventional wisdom out there has been that URI is doing this in part to have an excuse to have fewer scholarships. But I'm not sure it's a permanent move. The NEC has worked hard on increasing its scholarship numbers, however, and I feel that at the very least they'll meet in the middle. The NEC clearly wants to become credible in football, so I can't see it trying to limit growth. Of course URI will have to come down on its number to meet the NEC teams, but I think they're all going back up eventually.
Q: Do I think Stony Brook will come back to the NEC in football?
A: We live in an era where conferences are just groups of teams with no logic to be applied (see TCU to the Big East) but that model doesn't seem sustainable at the lower levels. Stony Brook in the Big South makes less than no sense. The NEC getting a bid to the FCS tournament was a game-changer, and if the NEC can keep attracting bigger name teams like URI, then Stony Brook might want back in. I can't speak to the terms on which they left in the boardroom, but I have learned over the years that money trumps feelings in college athletics, so I wouldn't rule anything out. My only thought is this: How many is too many teams? URI would be 10 (Bryant will be in by then) and you don't want to play anymore league games than that.
The only other option would be to boot the western teams like SFPA (PURE SPECULATION ON MY PART) if you intend on trying to add another couple of teams from around here. But I don't see that happening. I think, in the end, URI is THE move, not the start of many moves.
Oh deer
Ok, you have two reminders and the longest post of the year below that I would love for you to read, but since I was just talking about this with a friend I wanted to tell you.
Remember when we first started on this blogging journey together and I said I'd try and tell you an occasional story form the road trips? Many of them I end up unable to tell for various reasons (no, nothing illegal or sordid happens,), but these are the kinds of little memories I'll take with me someday from my first beat. Someday I'll have to redact some names and write one heck of a book.
We're coming back tonight (me and the people I rode with, I wasn't with the team), get around a curve and a deer has taken up residence on 91. Not has run across the road, but has just decided that's where he's going to stay.
So we swerve out of the way (thank God the road was empty) and even as we pass right by, the darn deer never moves. We miss him, but he wasn't even bothered to move. I think I'm more shocked by that than I was scared.
So if you're reading this Bambi, thanks for nothing.
For now, good night my blogging buddies. Let me know your live chat thoughts, send me emails, and read the Providence wrap. Some good stuff in there, at least I hope so. I still need names for some of the recurring features, so send me those as well.
Remember when we first started on this blogging journey together and I said I'd try and tell you an occasional story form the road trips? Many of them I end up unable to tell for various reasons (no, nothing illegal or sordid happens,), but these are the kinds of little memories I'll take with me someday from my first beat. Someday I'll have to redact some names and write one heck of a book.
We're coming back tonight (me and the people I rode with, I wasn't with the team), get around a curve and a deer has taken up residence on 91. Not has run across the road, but has just decided that's where he's going to stay.
So we swerve out of the way (thank God the road was empty) and even as we pass right by, the darn deer never moves. We miss him, but he wasn't even bothered to move. I think I'm more shocked by that than I was scared.
So if you're reading this Bambi, thanks for nothing.
For now, good night my blogging buddies. Let me know your live chat thoughts, send me emails, and read the Providence wrap. Some good stuff in there, at least I hope so. I still need names for some of the recurring features, so send me those as well.
2 quick things
First off, see my Providence wrap up below please, it's by far the most I've had to say after a game. Hopefully it's interesting.
But I wanted to tell you two things. First, Brad Carroll and I are talking about doing another of the live chats. Let me know when you all think is a good time and we'll see what we can do. He's all for running it, which we can do on his site, and I'm always up for debate with my people.
Second, there's some football questions left in my email (mstraubblog@hotmail.com) that I promise to get to this week. Been running around a bit.
But I wanted to tell you two things. First, Brad Carroll and I are talking about doing another of the live chats. Let me know when you all think is a good time and we'll see what we can do. He's all for running it, which we can do on his site, and I'm always up for debate with my people.
Second, there's some football questions left in my email (mstraubblog@hotmail.com) that I promise to get to this week. Been running around a bit.
Providence wrapup
First off, my apologies for not updating more throughout the game. For a nice a job as they've done refurbishing the inside of the DD Center, the guts of the place are much less pretty. Long story short, there were a handful of reporters trying to get internet after the game, never mind during it.
Hope the updates I did on my phone worked. It wouldn't let me type in this body box, so I tried to put a couple of things in the subject lines.
Secondly, I talked to Javier Mojica and Jemino Sobers tonight. Both are doing well. Jemino is coaching is Toronto.
Anyway, let's get to the business at hand. For 23:05, Central looked like a team that could win games in the Big East. The Blue Devils were patient but ran when the chance was there. They held their own on the boards and didn't get discouraged when a couple of shots were blocked early. Nor did they sulk when down 13-2. Instead, the came back to take a 9-0 lead later in the half. They drove the ball without fear, moved the ball without indecision and often shot the ball without a defender nearby. And they did it all without Joe Efese.
It actually looked like Central was going to win going away after it took a 29-20 lead late in the half. Even when Shemik Thompson went out with his second foul at the 4:11 mark of the half, Central survived, going to the break down just one.
Still, and this is gonna sound crazy because of what happened next, but I think that 4:11 was huge. If Central goes to the break up five (what they were up when Thompson sat down), the whole momentum of the game is different. Maybe Central still gets crushed, but I'm not convinced. The Devils were deflated by the way the half ended, and it carried over.
That said, what happened next seemed almost mathematically impossible. After turnovers on its first two possessions, Central still managed to take the lead. And the game was tied with 16:55 to go in regulation.
The numbers that followed are downright amazing. 34-6. 45-14. There was a 16-0 run in what seemed to be about 3 minutes. Just amazing stuff. And for the first time all year, it seemed like the Blue Devils quit. It got to the point where, with about eight minutes left, Howie Dickenman pulled his team because he wanted players who would "play hard."
That added to the tally, since some bench players who probably weren't ready for that level of opponent saw extended minutes. I'm not saying Central was going to come back from 30 down, but there's no way that game should have been 35.
With all that said, and since there are lot of them tonight, and despite the fact that Central was best in the 1-3-1 zone tonight, let's go man-to-man.
Markeys Deans: Was active in the paint, wanted the ball on the block. Struggled with his shot a bit, but more importantly, was involved in those awful eight minutes in which the Devils were destroyed.
Ken Horton: Willing to take shots, tried to get the ball inside and at least get to the line, made some good passes early, and he had a block. But he disappeared when he was needed to try and stem the tide. He had just two points in the second half, and, well, 34-6 happened in part on his watch.
Shemik Thompson: I actually didn't find as much fault in his game as others did. He had six assists to one turnover and added two steals. Yes he struggled on defense in the second half, but so did everyone. Where I'd fault him is this: As the emotional leader he seems to be, it's his job to prevent letdowns like that. I was looking for an Antoine Walker type speech. Just not the wiggle.
De'Angelo Speech: He was fantastic filling in for Efese in the first half, but had four turnovers and no rebounds after the break. I haven't pinned the player I'd compare him to yet, but I like something about Speech. He might kind of fall into that Shane Battier type role. He just is always involved somehow. I don't know that he's ever a great player, but he'll grow into a guy you want on the floor all the time eventually.
Robby Ptacek: At the end of the day a shooter has to make shots, and Ptacek didn't tonight. But there were positives. He was MUCH better even without a good shooting night. Was aggressive, and had a couple of good pump fakes that led to drives. But...... in fact, let's just do this so I don't have to type it. Just imagine that everything I say from here on out ends with "But the last 16:55," or "but the last eight minutes" depending on the player.
Vince Rosario: Had three turnovers, which hurt and were a shame because this was the kind of game Rosario could have been great in, a real shooting contest.
Devan Bailey: This game wasn't the right tempo for Bailey, though he led the second unit in garbage time as "the experienced one." For as long as we've talked about the likes of Thompson and Horton, it's hard not to forget how many young guys this team has.
Chris Baskerville: The good news is he's healthy again. He got a few rebounds and some shots up. But he missed FOUR STRAIGHT free throws. Still, if he can give Central some depth up front, that could be key come the winter.
Terrell Allen: Shot the ball well (3-for-4) had had 3 boards in 14 minutes, but had three turnovers. Another player I think will eventually help, but for now he's probably more effective in short bursts.
Justin Alexander: Welcome to the big-time, kid. He showed glimpses, getting three rebounds, throwing himself into the fire and running well. But goodness gracious, his shot needs some work. Every time I talk to one of the coaches they tell me how hard he works and how much they think of him personally, and they seem convinced he's going to turn into a player. We shall see.
That's all for now folks, I need some sleep very badly. As always, send me questions to mstraubblog@hotmail.com
Hope the updates I did on my phone worked. It wouldn't let me type in this body box, so I tried to put a couple of things in the subject lines.
Secondly, I talked to Javier Mojica and Jemino Sobers tonight. Both are doing well. Jemino is coaching is Toronto.
Anyway, let's get to the business at hand. For 23:05, Central looked like a team that could win games in the Big East. The Blue Devils were patient but ran when the chance was there. They held their own on the boards and didn't get discouraged when a couple of shots were blocked early. Nor did they sulk when down 13-2. Instead, the came back to take a 9-0 lead later in the half. They drove the ball without fear, moved the ball without indecision and often shot the ball without a defender nearby. And they did it all without Joe Efese.
It actually looked like Central was going to win going away after it took a 29-20 lead late in the half. Even when Shemik Thompson went out with his second foul at the 4:11 mark of the half, Central survived, going to the break down just one.
Still, and this is gonna sound crazy because of what happened next, but I think that 4:11 was huge. If Central goes to the break up five (what they were up when Thompson sat down), the whole momentum of the game is different. Maybe Central still gets crushed, but I'm not convinced. The Devils were deflated by the way the half ended, and it carried over.
That said, what happened next seemed almost mathematically impossible. After turnovers on its first two possessions, Central still managed to take the lead. And the game was tied with 16:55 to go in regulation.
The numbers that followed are downright amazing. 34-6. 45-14. There was a 16-0 run in what seemed to be about 3 minutes. Just amazing stuff. And for the first time all year, it seemed like the Blue Devils quit. It got to the point where, with about eight minutes left, Howie Dickenman pulled his team because he wanted players who would "play hard."
That added to the tally, since some bench players who probably weren't ready for that level of opponent saw extended minutes. I'm not saying Central was going to come back from 30 down, but there's no way that game should have been 35.
With all that said, and since there are lot of them tonight, and despite the fact that Central was best in the 1-3-1 zone tonight, let's go man-to-man.
Markeys Deans: Was active in the paint, wanted the ball on the block. Struggled with his shot a bit, but more importantly, was involved in those awful eight minutes in which the Devils were destroyed.
Ken Horton: Willing to take shots, tried to get the ball inside and at least get to the line, made some good passes early, and he had a block. But he disappeared when he was needed to try and stem the tide. He had just two points in the second half, and, well, 34-6 happened in part on his watch.
Shemik Thompson: I actually didn't find as much fault in his game as others did. He had six assists to one turnover and added two steals. Yes he struggled on defense in the second half, but so did everyone. Where I'd fault him is this: As the emotional leader he seems to be, it's his job to prevent letdowns like that. I was looking for an Antoine Walker type speech. Just not the wiggle.
De'Angelo Speech: He was fantastic filling in for Efese in the first half, but had four turnovers and no rebounds after the break. I haven't pinned the player I'd compare him to yet, but I like something about Speech. He might kind of fall into that Shane Battier type role. He just is always involved somehow. I don't know that he's ever a great player, but he'll grow into a guy you want on the floor all the time eventually.
Robby Ptacek: At the end of the day a shooter has to make shots, and Ptacek didn't tonight. But there were positives. He was MUCH better even without a good shooting night. Was aggressive, and had a couple of good pump fakes that led to drives. But...... in fact, let's just do this so I don't have to type it. Just imagine that everything I say from here on out ends with "But the last 16:55," or "but the last eight minutes" depending on the player.
Vince Rosario: Had three turnovers, which hurt and were a shame because this was the kind of game Rosario could have been great in, a real shooting contest.
Devan Bailey: This game wasn't the right tempo for Bailey, though he led the second unit in garbage time as "the experienced one." For as long as we've talked about the likes of Thompson and Horton, it's hard not to forget how many young guys this team has.
Chris Baskerville: The good news is he's healthy again. He got a few rebounds and some shots up. But he missed FOUR STRAIGHT free throws. Still, if he can give Central some depth up front, that could be key come the winter.
Terrell Allen: Shot the ball well (3-for-4) had had 3 boards in 14 minutes, but had three turnovers. Another player I think will eventually help, but for now he's probably more effective in short bursts.
Justin Alexander: Welcome to the big-time, kid. He showed glimpses, getting three rebounds, throwing himself into the fire and running well. But goodness gracious, his shot needs some work. Every time I talk to one of the coaches they tell me how hard he works and how much they think of him personally, and they seem convinced he's going to turn into a player. We shall see.
That's all for now folks, I need some sleep very badly. As always, send me questions to mstraubblog@hotmail.com
Robby redo
I should have mentioned in my breakdown of Robby Ptacek's game last night that Howie Dickenman said he has been missing practice with a broken toe. He played, however, so the rule of "if you play you're ok" tends to apply. Still, I'll give him a break. We'll see if he can go Monday, or if part of the reason for his absence was his foot.
Monmouth wrap up
Well, for as hard as I was on both teams during the game, if you're a member of Blue Devil nation you're happy to be 1-0 in the league today, and you're pointing out that the NEC has done reasonably well in OOC games so far. Next time I get a chance I'm going to take a look at the league as a whole, but for tonight, let's just worry about the team I cover and you follow.
Any game vs. Monmouth is going to be ugly, it's just the way they play. But give Central a ton of credit for fighting through it, particularly after blowing the lead. The Blue Devils didn't put their heads down, instead they charged back and found a way to win, which is especially impressive on a day when Ken Horton couldn't tip the ball in off the rim.
Let's go man-to-man.
Markeys Deans: Terriffic late. He hit the biggest shot of the game, went 4-for-5 at the line had three blocks and seven boards. He turned it over too much and probably tried to dribble too much at various points, but a very solid game overall.
Shemik Thompson: He's like Andy Pettitte, the numbers on the surface can look ugly at times, but all you can remember is the big situations in which he comes up huge. The eight turnovers today were ugly, but he played almost every minute, made some big free throws (and got to the line 8 times, too) and had a steal. He's not pretty for all 40 minutes, but in the last minute there are few players in the NEC you'd rather have with the ball.
Joe Efese: If he wasn't officially back before, he is now. No one in white was better at getting into the middle of the Monmouth zone early, and his game was well-rounded. He scored, rebounded, blocked shots and hit the game's biggest free throw. Very good performance, and did it all while battling a groin injury he first suffered against Army. He said he expected to be fine for Providence, however.
Ken Horton: Played every minute and found ways to contribute on a night where he couldn't finish tip ins, never mind make shots. That shows the type of leadership you need from your best player. He didn't force shots and he didn't get down. He found ways to chip in, especially with his defense and rebounding.
Robby Ptacek: We've said similar things about Ptacek in this space in the past, but it wasn't true today. He never got going in any phase of the game, and Howie Dickenman went in other directions when it appeared obvious that he just didn't have it.
Vince Rosario: Dickenman called him a hired gun after the game, and his role was never more pronounced than it was today. He came in, made a pair of huge shots, then sat down. Quality over quantity. His three in response to Jordan's with just under a minute left was the most underrated play of the game. It must be incredibly tough to come in and be asked to contribute so quickly.
De'Angelo Speech: We'll chalk this up to rust after missing the last three games due to a suspension. As always he did a little bit of everything, but more of those things than usual were negatives this time. Still, for a freshman in his first league game, it's hard to expect much more.
Devan Bailey: The minutes eater. Didn't make a shot, but did some nice things and never hurt Central in 23 minutes. Five rebounds, only one turnover, which he made up for with a steal. There was a time when he and Efese were trading good games and a starting spot. Now they're both playing well. Great sign.
Terrell Allen: Grabbed a couple of boards in six minutes. He probably didn't experience too many defensive struggles like this in high school or AAU ball, so it was good for him to get his feet wet.
And that's a wrap on the NEC opener. The Devils are 1-0 in the league. It doesn't matter how they got there. If I don't talk to you before, I'll check in from Providence.
Any game vs. Monmouth is going to be ugly, it's just the way they play. But give Central a ton of credit for fighting through it, particularly after blowing the lead. The Blue Devils didn't put their heads down, instead they charged back and found a way to win, which is especially impressive on a day when Ken Horton couldn't tip the ball in off the rim.
Let's go man-to-man.
Markeys Deans: Terriffic late. He hit the biggest shot of the game, went 4-for-5 at the line had three blocks and seven boards. He turned it over too much and probably tried to dribble too much at various points, but a very solid game overall.
Shemik Thompson: He's like Andy Pettitte, the numbers on the surface can look ugly at times, but all you can remember is the big situations in which he comes up huge. The eight turnovers today were ugly, but he played almost every minute, made some big free throws (and got to the line 8 times, too) and had a steal. He's not pretty for all 40 minutes, but in the last minute there are few players in the NEC you'd rather have with the ball.
Joe Efese: If he wasn't officially back before, he is now. No one in white was better at getting into the middle of the Monmouth zone early, and his game was well-rounded. He scored, rebounded, blocked shots and hit the game's biggest free throw. Very good performance, and did it all while battling a groin injury he first suffered against Army. He said he expected to be fine for Providence, however.
Ken Horton: Played every minute and found ways to contribute on a night where he couldn't finish tip ins, never mind make shots. That shows the type of leadership you need from your best player. He didn't force shots and he didn't get down. He found ways to chip in, especially with his defense and rebounding.
Robby Ptacek: We've said similar things about Ptacek in this space in the past, but it wasn't true today. He never got going in any phase of the game, and Howie Dickenman went in other directions when it appeared obvious that he just didn't have it.
Vince Rosario: Dickenman called him a hired gun after the game, and his role was never more pronounced than it was today. He came in, made a pair of huge shots, then sat down. Quality over quantity. His three in response to Jordan's with just under a minute left was the most underrated play of the game. It must be incredibly tough to come in and be asked to contribute so quickly.
De'Angelo Speech: We'll chalk this up to rust after missing the last three games due to a suspension. As always he did a little bit of everything, but more of those things than usual were negatives this time. Still, for a freshman in his first league game, it's hard to expect much more.
Devan Bailey: The minutes eater. Didn't make a shot, but did some nice things and never hurt Central in 23 minutes. Five rebounds, only one turnover, which he made up for with a steal. There was a time when he and Efese were trading good games and a starting spot. Now they're both playing well. Great sign.
Terrell Allen: Grabbed a couple of boards in six minutes. He probably didn't experience too many defensive struggles like this in high school or AAU ball, so it was good for him to get his feet wet.
And that's a wrap on the NEC opener. The Devils are 1-0 in the league. It doesn't matter how they got there. If I don't talk to you before, I'll check in from Providence.
That should do it
Markeys Deans hits a leaner in the lane with 27.2 seconds left, 54-50 Central, and the Devils will hang on.
I'll check in later tonight with a full recap.
I'll check in later tonight with a full recap.
Wow
Ok so Davis hit a three for Monmouth with 1:11 left to put the Hawks up four. But Vince Rosario hit a three on the next trip, and Joe Efese hit one of two at the line with 5.4 left to send it to OT tied at 45.
Efese's 3-point play opened OT and Thompson later made 2 to put Central up 50-46 with 3:47 left.
Efese's 3-point play opened OT and Thompson later made 2 to put Central up 50-46 with 3:47 left.
Not good
Central has 3 points in the last 10 minutes or so and now trails 42-40 with 1:38 left.
This would be an awful, awful loss.
This would be an awful, awful loss.
Almost done
less than six minutes left, 38-32 Central. CC just committed its 20th turnover, and a Blue Devil pass just hit a girl in the front row. Central and Monmouth is always ugly, but if the Devils win no one will care.
Grinding away
Sorry I was away for a bit, it's crazy down here today. Central up 38-32 with just under eight minutes left. There's a lid over the CCSU basket, but they're getting multiple chances inside, that's all you can ask for.
Halftime
Thankfully, because it means we get to not watch the teams try and play offense against these defenses for a minute.
They combined to go 14-for-44 from the field and 3-16 from three in the half.
Central had 10 turnovers against the Monmouth zone, but held a good rebounding edge, 21-15.
Joe Efese had 9 for Central, while Ken Horton had 6 points and 5 boards to go with 3 blocks.
Central leads 24-20 at the break.
They combined to go 14-for-44 from the field and 3-16 from three in the half.
Central had 10 turnovers against the Monmouth zone, but held a good rebounding edge, 21-15.
Joe Efese had 9 for Central, while Ken Horton had 6 points and 5 boards to go with 3 blocks.
Central leads 24-20 at the break.
Hanging on to the lead
3:55 to go in the half, Joe Efese's 9 points leads CC, which has a 17-11 lead despite nine turnovers and 5-for-15 shooting.
Pulling away, for now at least
Joe Efese scores 5 straight Central points and Markeys Deans gets a dunk on a break from Shemik Thompson as Central builds a 14-6 lead past the halfway mark of the half.
It's still ugly, just not AS ugly.
It's still ugly, just not AS ugly.
Ugly start
It must be Central and Monmouth.
The Devils started 0-for-4 from the field and had 3 turnovers in the first 4:11, but trailed just 3-2.
Horton just stuck a 3 from the left wing, and Central had a 7-4 lead roughly seven minutes in. More in a bit.
The Devils started 0-for-4 from the field and had 3 turnovers in the first 4:11, but trailed just 3-2.
Horton just stuck a 3 from the left wing, and Central had a 7-4 lead roughly seven minutes in. More in a bit.
Getting ready to tip
It's the usual lineup for the Blue Devils: Shemik Thompson and Robby Ptacek in back of Markeys Deans, Joe Efese (back in the starting lineup) and Ken Horton.
Devils in the home white, same unis (they'll get new ones next year most likely, details on that in a bit), Monmouth in the regular road blue, I believe same as last year's as well.
Devils in the home white, same unis (they'll get new ones next year most likely, details on that in a bit), Monmouth in the regular road blue, I believe same as last year's as well.
I didn't forget about you my blogging buddies
Saying hi after a long holiday weekend. Hope you and yours had a wonderful holiday. Will check in from the game Saturday when/if I can.
We'll do our usual postgame stuff here, probably later at night.
We'll do our usual postgame stuff here, probably later at night.
Penn St. wrap
Well, I think all told, the score was pretty representative of the game. I think Central deserved better than the 27-point gap it once faced, but I think Penn St.'s 2nd half start was worthy of a double-digit win.
Central MUST figure out its zone defense, it was ugly for a stretch. Penn St. moved the ball perfectly, getting to the middle of it, which allows you to force the zone to shift and usually opens up a man. The Blue Devils will have to do a better job of denying that first move to the middle, whether it's a drive or a quick pass to the foul line.
If the Blue Devils can avoid foul trouble and make some outside shots the next time they play one of these games, they'll be in better shape. They certainly showed they can score the ball, especially in transition, against a BCS school.
I'd have loved to have seen Howie Dickenman call a time out when the score was still salvageable, but I don't think it would have mattered.
Btw, if you read this tonight, Chaminade is tied with Michigan State at half. Anything can happen in this great sport, so don't count Central out in some of these bigger games later in the year or, potentially, in March.
With that said, it's time to go man-to-man. (I really need Bill Raftery to do a voice over for me for this). Bill, if you're out there, help a young guy out!
Markeys Deans: Probably the best player on the floor for Central. Did a little bit of everything, and can score inside and out. If he can find a way to stay out of foul trouble against bigger men, Central will be fine. Wasn't great defensively in the second half, but no one was.
Ken Horton: Couldn't get his 3-point shot going, and couldn't figure out a way to escape the swarm of bigs that attacked him when he went inside. Moved the ball well (three assists) and was solid on defense (3 blocks), but Central will never win one of these "play up" games if Horton can't score. If he's not going to be effective inside, he must make jumpers. He did neither tonight.
Shemik Thompson: He scored (18 points) he distributed (six assists) he rebounded (seven) and he defended (three steals). If he'd made another outside shot or two and got to the line a bit more, it would have been an incredible night.
Robby Ptacek: Turned it over a couple too many times, but he was aggressive, which is nice to see. Didn't shoot the ball well, but tried to drive it a few times and had a couple of steals. Him making some outside shots, especially open ones, is a key to winning one of the three big non-conference games left on the schedule.
Vince Rosario: Filled in reasonably well in that he didn't turn it over, but couldn't make a shot. If he's going to take over that Vinny "Microwave" Johnson role (man I'm old) he has to come in and make some shots early. He seems to feed off his own momentum, and it seems like 2 makes can lead to five. On the other side of that coin, however, one miss can lead to three.
Joe Efese: Welcome back, Joe. Solid offensively and had a block. Now must work on his interior game, both rebounding and defense. But after a horrid start to the year, great for Devils fans to see him going again.
Chris Baskerville: The good news is he's back in the lineup. We'll see if he can help provide some depth up front.
Terrell Allen: His usual come in, play hard for a few minutes, cause some havoc and sit down routine. Interesting to see how that role works once De'Angelo Speech comes back for the Monmouth game.
Justin Alexander: Nice to see him get to see the floor. Someday, everyone associated with the Devils thinks, he'll be a player.
Hoping to keep getting comments on this feature. I have been, so we'll keep doing it. Please keep it up. I'm having a blast writing about a fun team here, so I hope you're enjoying all of this stuff, too.
Send me some questions at mstraubblog@hotmail.com. With no more football to write about, I need some new topics. Your questions will be good fodder.
Central MUST figure out its zone defense, it was ugly for a stretch. Penn St. moved the ball perfectly, getting to the middle of it, which allows you to force the zone to shift and usually opens up a man. The Blue Devils will have to do a better job of denying that first move to the middle, whether it's a drive or a quick pass to the foul line.
If the Blue Devils can avoid foul trouble and make some outside shots the next time they play one of these games, they'll be in better shape. They certainly showed they can score the ball, especially in transition, against a BCS school.
I'd have loved to have seen Howie Dickenman call a time out when the score was still salvageable, but I don't think it would have mattered.
Btw, if you read this tonight, Chaminade is tied with Michigan State at half. Anything can happen in this great sport, so don't count Central out in some of these bigger games later in the year or, potentially, in March.
With that said, it's time to go man-to-man. (I really need Bill Raftery to do a voice over for me for this). Bill, if you're out there, help a young guy out!
Markeys Deans: Probably the best player on the floor for Central. Did a little bit of everything, and can score inside and out. If he can find a way to stay out of foul trouble against bigger men, Central will be fine. Wasn't great defensively in the second half, but no one was.
Ken Horton: Couldn't get his 3-point shot going, and couldn't figure out a way to escape the swarm of bigs that attacked him when he went inside. Moved the ball well (three assists) and was solid on defense (3 blocks), but Central will never win one of these "play up" games if Horton can't score. If he's not going to be effective inside, he must make jumpers. He did neither tonight.
Shemik Thompson: He scored (18 points) he distributed (six assists) he rebounded (seven) and he defended (three steals). If he'd made another outside shot or two and got to the line a bit more, it would have been an incredible night.
Robby Ptacek: Turned it over a couple too many times, but he was aggressive, which is nice to see. Didn't shoot the ball well, but tried to drive it a few times and had a couple of steals. Him making some outside shots, especially open ones, is a key to winning one of the three big non-conference games left on the schedule.
Vince Rosario: Filled in reasonably well in that he didn't turn it over, but couldn't make a shot. If he's going to take over that Vinny "Microwave" Johnson role (man I'm old) he has to come in and make some shots early. He seems to feed off his own momentum, and it seems like 2 makes can lead to five. On the other side of that coin, however, one miss can lead to three.
Joe Efese: Welcome back, Joe. Solid offensively and had a block. Now must work on his interior game, both rebounding and defense. But after a horrid start to the year, great for Devils fans to see him going again.
Chris Baskerville: The good news is he's back in the lineup. We'll see if he can help provide some depth up front.
Terrell Allen: His usual come in, play hard for a few minutes, cause some havoc and sit down routine. Interesting to see how that role works once De'Angelo Speech comes back for the Monmouth game.
Justin Alexander: Nice to see him get to see the floor. Someday, everyone associated with the Devils thinks, he'll be a player.
Hoping to keep getting comments on this feature. I have been, so we'll keep doing it. Please keep it up. I'm having a blast writing about a fun team here, so I hope you're enjoying all of this stuff, too.
Send me some questions at mstraubblog@hotmail.com. With no more football to write about, I need some new topics. Your questions will be good fodder.
Signing off for now
Central is making it respectable again, finding Deans and getting him going again. Unfortunately for Central, it's too late.
I'm going to finish up my writing, then I'll be back with the wrap up stuff we've been doing on here that I hope you're enjoying.
I'm going to finish up my writing, then I'll be back with the wrap up stuff we've been doing on here that I hope you're enjoying.
It got worse
The Nittany Lions made their first 11 shots of the second half to turn this one into a laugher. Ken Horton is getting pushed to the perimeter by bigger players and Central can't stop PSU from making sharp passes to get the ball inside.
It's 67-42 with just over 8 minutes left in the game.
It's 67-42 with just over 8 minutes left in the game.
Forget boxing out
There hasn't been a rebound to get after the break. PSU started the second half 8-for-8, just carving Central's zone defense with ease. Jeff Brooks had an impressive spin move to get an easy basket, and it's 56-31 with under 15 left in the half.
I think Howie Dickenman waited way too long to call a timeout in the half, but I'm not sure it would have mattered the way this is going.
I think Howie Dickenman waited way too long to call a timeout in the half, but I'm not sure it would have mattered the way this is going.
At the half
Taran Buie, who is actually Talor Battle's half brother, took over the game late in the half. scoring nine points in the final 4:37 of the half as the Lions took a 38-26 lead to the break with a 15-6 run to end the half.
Howie Dickenman went away from the "Calhoun rule" and put Ken Horton back in with 2 fouls and Central got right back in the offensive flow. We'll see if the Devils can make an early run with Deans and Horton back on the floor to start the 2nd half. But they MUST rebound, and MUST make Penn St. miss some shots, or it won't matter.
Howie Dickenman went away from the "Calhoun rule" and put Ken Horton back in with 2 fouls and Central got right back in the offensive flow. We'll see if the Devils can make an early run with Deans and Horton back on the floor to start the 2nd half. But they MUST rebound, and MUST make Penn St. miss some shots, or it won't matter.
Battle of attrition
Foul trouble has Central thin up front, and it's starting to take affect. The Devils now trial 30-21, playing without both Markeys Deans and Ken Horton with 2 each.
The Blue Devils have missed 5 of their last 6 shots as well. 30-21, under 4 to go in the half.
The Blue Devils have missed 5 of their last 6 shots as well. 30-21, under 4 to go in the half.
Yeah, I should have mentioned
Ken Horton picked up his second foul with just under 8 minutes left in the half. Terrell Allen in up front with Efese.
Good news and bad
Markeys Deans will likely sit the rest of the half after getting his 2nd foul of the half, but Central keeps running its way to points.
PSU is just 8-for-21 from the floor, while Central is 7-for-16. The Nittany Lions have missed their last 5 3-point tries, and Central has to do a better job of defending that shot.
Also, 6 early turnovers are hurting the Blue Devils.
The rebounds are just about even, a feat against a bigger team, but Central has given up 4 offensive boards for 6 points.
It will be key for Joe Efese to play well for Deans the rest of the half.
7:33 left in the half and he's at the line. He makes 1 and it's 20-18 Penn St.
PSU is just 8-for-21 from the floor, while Central is 7-for-16. The Nittany Lions have missed their last 5 3-point tries, and Central has to do a better job of defending that shot.
Also, 6 early turnovers are hurting the Blue Devils.
The rebounds are just about even, a feat against a bigger team, but Central has given up 4 offensive boards for 6 points.
It will be key for Joe Efese to play well for Deans the rest of the half.
7:33 left in the half and he's at the line. He makes 1 and it's 20-18 Penn St.
Hanging right in
By the way, if you're on Comcast this game is on 270 if you have HD. Not sure about Cox.
Anyway, we're at the second TV timeout and Central looks much better. When the Blue Devils can rebound and run they can score almost at will. They got some good shots early in the half court and couldn't hit, or they'd be ahead right now.
Penn St. clearly wants to keep this thing slow, which might actually help the short-handed Devils in terms of staying fresh.
18-15 PSU, 10:05 let in the half.
Anyway, we're at the second TV timeout and Central looks much better. When the Blue Devils can rebound and run they can score almost at will. They got some good shots early in the half court and couldn't hit, or they'd be ahead right now.
Penn St. clearly wants to keep this thing slow, which might actually help the short-handed Devils in terms of staying fresh.
18-15 PSU, 10:05 let in the half.
Well that's better
After Penn St. started on a 9-0 run (I use that term loosely since it took more than 4 minutes), Central finally got its break going. Shemik Thompson hit a 13-footer as the trailer on a feed from Ken Horton on a 3-on-1, and Markeys Deans just scored on a semi-break and will go to the line after the first TV timeout of the night.
It's 9-4 with the free throw pending for Deans. Central has really struggled with its shot early (started 0-for-4) but is getting open shots, a great sign.
FT good, but Brooks hits a 3 right back, it's 12-5.
It's 9-4 with the free throw pending for Deans. Central has really struggled with its shot early (started 0-for-4) but is getting open shots, a great sign.
FT good, but Brooks hits a 3 right back, it's 12-5.
Getting ready to watch the game
Will have thoughts throughout and a story afterwords, as well as our usual blogging stuff.
Box out and this could be interesting for Central. Don't and it won't be.
Devan in for Efese again.
Box out and this could be interesting for Central. Don't and it won't be.
Devan in for Efese again.
It's official
I've mentioned that this was likely coming for some time, but it's now official. URI joins the NEC for football starting in 2013.
"We are thrilled to welcome the University of Rhode Island to the Northeast Conference football family,” Noreen Morris, NEC Commissioner, said in a statement. “The Conference is united in its commitment to the long term growth of NEC football. As such, the NEC has made great strides in recent years, leading to our first appearance in the NCAA FCS playoffs. The addition of URI further strengthens the league and begins an exciting new chapter in the NEC’s development.”
Rhode Island will begin competing in the NEC in the 2013 season. The Rams will remain an associate football member of the Colonial Athletic Association in 2011 and 2012.
"We are thrilled to welcome the University of Rhode Island to the Northeast Conference football family,” Noreen Morris, NEC Commissioner, said in a statement. “The Conference is united in its commitment to the long term growth of NEC football. As such, the NEC has made great strides in recent years, leading to our first appearance in the NCAA FCS playoffs. The addition of URI further strengthens the league and begins an exciting new chapter in the NEC’s development.”
Rhode Island will begin competing in the NEC in the 2013 season. The Rams will remain an associate football member of the Colonial Athletic Association in 2011 and 2012.
Hoops wrap for Saturday night
First off, congratulations to Shemik Thompson on becoming the 32nd player in CCSU history to reach the 1,000-point plateau.
It certainly is a different year than 2009-2010 and I don't just mean in terms of wins and losses. The Blue Devils couldn't throw the ball in the ocean from the deck of a boat last year, but have now scored 80 or more in back-to-back games for the first time since the 07-08 season.
Central has now won 23 in a row when scoring 80 or more, but the number seemed unattainable for a while. With this more uptempo pace they've been on of late, however, the Blue Devils might be able to put up bigger numbers more consistently. Part of it is pace, but part of it is having Ken Horton back. He's freeing up other guys to play less pressure-packed games. Oh, and he's good. Let's not forget that.
The other interesting thing is the wild mood swings these games are taking. Central has trailed in all three games by 10 or more in the first half. Against Hartford, it chipped away. Against Army and again last night (or at least long ago tonight as I type this), the Blue Devils simply exploded. Saturday night it was a 32-10 run over the final 10 minutes of the first half that turned an 11-point hole to an 11-point halftime lead. This coming off a 50-point half vs. Army.
As in the Army game, Central slowed down after the break. UMBC cut the lead to 3 midway through the second half, but Central was able to slowly build the lead back up.
I put a Blue Devil breakdown in the paper. Going to try to get a preview for the PSU game in the paper Sunday for Monday.
But for now, let's do our new feature sweeping the blogosphere. Let's go man-to-man. Coach Howie Dickenman only went with 8 tonight (De'Angelo Speech is out until the Monmouth game), so it won't take long.
Shemik Thompson: Not a great shooting night, but was 5-of-10 with 13 points in the second half as Central fought to hang on. Another example of his grit. Plus, on a night where he gets to 1,000, we can't say anything bad here.
Markeys Deans: I asked you guys to be patient with him, and Deans made me look smart. Didn't shoot too much, but scored quite a bit. 10 boards, 5 offensive.
Ken Horton: Ho hum, Yawn. 24 and 11 with 2 blocks. Don't allow yourself to get spoiled. This kid is special in the NEC. Now let's see what he can do against the big boys.
Robby Ptacek: I guess the slump is over. 6-of-10 is great, though I wonder when the last time he went 1-for-3 at the line was. No turnovers. Impressive night.
Devan Bailey: Got his first start of the year tonight and, well, he certainly wasn't boring. Scoring? Good. 2-for-3, hit a 3. Defense? 3 blocks is great but 5 fouls isn't. 3 turnovers in 28 minutes as well. I wouldn't be sure if it was a good enough night to get another start except....
Joe Efese: 5 minutes, a rebound and a turnover. Icky. Too soon to see if this is a sophomore slump, some early struggles, some sort of injury or just a lack of comfort with the new lineup, but it hasn't been a good start for Efese. Clearly he wasn't able to continue the momentum from last year. Now we'll see if he can make new momentum.
Vince Rosario: Hit a couple of gree throws late and is starting to figure out how to contribute when his shot isn't falling. No turnovers in 24 minutes, and he got a steal and four rebounds. His success comes when he's making threes, but this wasn't a bad night when he wasn't.
Terrell Allen: Got a quick foul, only saw three minutes.
Overall: Not the depth you want to see, but but the main men played very well. This game is not unwinnable Monday, but it will take a GREAT effort. We'll see what happens.
It certainly is a different year than 2009-2010 and I don't just mean in terms of wins and losses. The Blue Devils couldn't throw the ball in the ocean from the deck of a boat last year, but have now scored 80 or more in back-to-back games for the first time since the 07-08 season.
Central has now won 23 in a row when scoring 80 or more, but the number seemed unattainable for a while. With this more uptempo pace they've been on of late, however, the Blue Devils might be able to put up bigger numbers more consistently. Part of it is pace, but part of it is having Ken Horton back. He's freeing up other guys to play less pressure-packed games. Oh, and he's good. Let's not forget that.
The other interesting thing is the wild mood swings these games are taking. Central has trailed in all three games by 10 or more in the first half. Against Hartford, it chipped away. Against Army and again last night (or at least long ago tonight as I type this), the Blue Devils simply exploded. Saturday night it was a 32-10 run over the final 10 minutes of the first half that turned an 11-point hole to an 11-point halftime lead. This coming off a 50-point half vs. Army.
As in the Army game, Central slowed down after the break. UMBC cut the lead to 3 midway through the second half, but Central was able to slowly build the lead back up.
I put a Blue Devil breakdown in the paper. Going to try to get a preview for the PSU game in the paper Sunday for Monday.
But for now, let's do our new feature sweeping the blogosphere. Let's go man-to-man. Coach Howie Dickenman only went with 8 tonight (De'Angelo Speech is out until the Monmouth game), so it won't take long.
Shemik Thompson: Not a great shooting night, but was 5-of-10 with 13 points in the second half as Central fought to hang on. Another example of his grit. Plus, on a night where he gets to 1,000, we can't say anything bad here.
Markeys Deans: I asked you guys to be patient with him, and Deans made me look smart. Didn't shoot too much, but scored quite a bit. 10 boards, 5 offensive.
Ken Horton: Ho hum, Yawn. 24 and 11 with 2 blocks. Don't allow yourself to get spoiled. This kid is special in the NEC. Now let's see what he can do against the big boys.
Robby Ptacek: I guess the slump is over. 6-of-10 is great, though I wonder when the last time he went 1-for-3 at the line was. No turnovers. Impressive night.
Devan Bailey: Got his first start of the year tonight and, well, he certainly wasn't boring. Scoring? Good. 2-for-3, hit a 3. Defense? 3 blocks is great but 5 fouls isn't. 3 turnovers in 28 minutes as well. I wouldn't be sure if it was a good enough night to get another start except....
Joe Efese: 5 minutes, a rebound and a turnover. Icky. Too soon to see if this is a sophomore slump, some early struggles, some sort of injury or just a lack of comfort with the new lineup, but it hasn't been a good start for Efese. Clearly he wasn't able to continue the momentum from last year. Now we'll see if he can make new momentum.
Vince Rosario: Hit a couple of gree throws late and is starting to figure out how to contribute when his shot isn't falling. No turnovers in 24 minutes, and he got a steal and four rebounds. His success comes when he's making threes, but this wasn't a bad night when he wasn't.
Terrell Allen: Got a quick foul, only saw three minutes.
Overall: Not the depth you want to see, but but the main men played very well. This game is not unwinnable Monday, but it will take a GREAT effort. We'll see what happens.
Wrapping up football
After a long night in the office, I'm back to break down the night.
We'll do a couple of football thoughts here, then I'll make a separate post for hoops.
Not much to say about the game itself today. Central did what it had to against a badly overmatched team. The defense looked its best of the year bar none, but the competition was such that I'm not sure it mattered much.
What did matter to the players is that they have won the NEC, or at least a share of it. And the really good news? Gunnar Jespersen is back to lead the offense next year.
There will be expectations, and with them, pressure. The Blue Devils will have 25 seniors next year and return many of the big pieces from this team, so anything less than an NEC title would be considered a disappointment next year.
Check Sunday's Herald for a recap and Monday's paper for a follow up.
We'll do a couple of football thoughts here, then I'll make a separate post for hoops.
Not much to say about the game itself today. Central did what it had to against a badly overmatched team. The defense looked its best of the year bar none, but the competition was such that I'm not sure it mattered much.
What did matter to the players is that they have won the NEC, or at least a share of it. And the really good news? Gunnar Jespersen is back to lead the offense next year.
There will be expectations, and with them, pressure. The Blue Devils will have 25 seniors next year and return many of the big pieces from this team, so anything less than an NEC title would be considered a disappointment next year.
Check Sunday's Herald for a recap and Monday's paper for a follow up.
Over and out
SFPA misses the 2-pt try, and trails 23-13 with 2:30 left. That should do it. I'm going to go do my postgame requirements, will try and check in later this afternoon, but will DEFINITELY check in after hoops tonight.
Final notes on the football seniors before I go: The 15 seniors get their 30th win, tied for most by a class in history, and their 17th in the last 2 years, the best 2-year run in school history. They were also part of Central's no 14-game home winning streak, third-longest in the country. That could go to 2nd, however, as Montana, currently first at 23, was losing last I checked.
Final notes on the football seniors before I go: The 15 seniors get their 30th win, tied for most by a class in history, and their 17th in the last 2 years, the best 2-year run in school history. They were also part of Central's no 14-game home winning streak, third-longest in the country. That could go to 2nd, however, as Montana, currently first at 23, was losing last I checked.
Hmm, hang on for a minute
After a Central punt, SFPA marches 87 yards for a score with 2:24 left. All-important 2-pt try pending.
SFPA on the board
The best drive of the game for the Flash leads to a Dan Conley one-yard score. 23-7, less than nine minutes left.
By the way, great call by the SFPA staff to kick. Too many coaches botch the math on this. You have to go 7-8-8 down by 23. If you go for 8 first and miss, you need 3 more scores. Never go for two until you absolutely have to.
Unless you're Jeff McInerney. He goes for 2 all the time. My thoughts on that are frequently mentioned in this space.
By the way, great call by the SFPA staff to kick. Too many coaches botch the math on this. You have to go 7-8-8 down by 23. If you go for 8 first and miss, you need 3 more scores. Never go for two until you absolutely have to.
Unless you're Jeff McInerney. He goes for 2 all the time. My thoughts on that are frequently mentioned in this space.
Turnover
On 4th down at SFPA's 28, Gunnar Jespersen (who looked injured two plays prior but stayed in) was hit as he threw. The ball flew nearly straight up, and was picked off.
12:43 left int he fourth, SFPA ball on its own 41. With the way the Red Flash threw the ball late in the first half, you have to be on what CCSU coach Jeff McInerney calls "Red Alert" right now.
12:43 left int he fourth, SFPA ball on its own 41. With the way the Red Flash threw the ball late in the first half, you have to be on what CCSU coach Jeff McInerney calls "Red Alert" right now.
Here we go again
45 yard long one from Gunnar to P.J. Borawski to start the 4th quarter. Central driving up 23-0.
U-G-L-Y
SFPA tries to punt from inside its own 10, but the snap is high. Andrew Penksa wisely just kicked the ball out of the back of the end zone once he got it, giving Central a safety and a 23-0 lead.
I'm still here
Sorry, I was catching up on my writing here. Nothing to report so far in the third, just a trade of punts. Central now seems content to run some clock, which should help move this thing along immensly. Central has it near midfield, five minutes left in the third.
That's a wrap
On the half at least.
Josue Paul catches one for about 50 yards, but is called for offensive pass interference with 2 seconds left in the half. CC takes a knee after that, and takes a knee to get to the break up 21-0.
Josue Paul catches one for about 50 yards, but is called for offensive pass interference with 2 seconds left in the half. CC takes a knee after that, and takes a knee to get to the break up 21-0.
Not so fast Red Flash
New Britain's Chris Linares breaks up a 4th down pass (SFPA badly wanted a pass interference call but didn't get it) to kill the drive with less than a minute left in the half. Still 21-0.
A surprise
It turns out Central has a punter! If this was your first CCSU game, you wouldn't know it.
Even bigger news? SFPA just gained 3 first downs in 3 plays! They're driving by throwing the ball, too. Not even the running game!
Even bigger news? SFPA just gained 3 first downs in 3 plays! They're driving by throwing the ball, too. Not even the running game!
How about this math?
Kevin Woolfolk's short TD run, followed by Joe Izzo's XP being blocked gives Central the wildest 21-0 lead ever. To review, the Devils have a field goal and three TDs, but had 2 XP's blocked and failed on a a 2-pt try.
Oh, and SFPA then went 3-and-out. But they gained 3 yards this time, bringing their totals to 20 plays, 7 yards.
Oh, and SFPA then went 3-and-out. But they gained 3 yards this time, bringing their totals to 20 plays, 7 yards.
Here we go again
I feel like I should just tell you when the Red Flash DON'T go 3-and-out.
Through 20 minutes of action, they have run 17 plays and have four total yards. 4. They're averaging a little less than a yard every four plays.
In other words, going by their average yards per play, if they started possessions with a 1st and 1 instead of a 1st and 10, they still wouldn't make a first down.
Through 20 minutes of action, they have run 17 plays and have four total yards. 4. They're averaging a little less than a yard every four plays.
In other words, going by their average yards per play, if they started possessions with a 1st and 1 instead of a 1st and 10, they still wouldn't make a first down.
And again
The Flash stop Central 3 times inside the SFPA 5. Joe Izzo kicks from 28 and hits.
14:18 to go in the half, 15-0 CC.
14:18 to go in the half, 15-0 CC.
A stop for the Flash
But not before Central gets downright disrespectful. The Blue Devils went for it on 4th down and long just over midfield, going deep but coming up short.
SFPA takes over near midfield, but continues to be unable to move the ball AT ALL.
Just under 3 minutes left in the first 12-0 Central and it's about to take over the ball. SFPA got this punt away at least.
SFPA takes over near midfield, but continues to be unable to move the ball AT ALL.
Just under 3 minutes left in the first 12-0 Central and it's about to take over the ball. SFPA got this punt away at least.
This is ugly
Rush's 2nd blocked kick of the day gives Central the ball near midfield. This one was a punt.
SFPA has run 11 plays and has 3 yards.
SFPA has run 11 plays and has 3 yards.
Long ball!
As I wrote that, Gunnar hit Paul again for a 49-yard strike.
2 plays later, Jespersen scores his 2nd of the day, a 1-yard dive, and Central's fake XP fails. 7:00 exactly left in the first, and it's 12-0.
2 plays later, Jespersen scores his 2nd of the day, a 1-yard dive, and Central's fake XP fails. 7:00 exactly left in the first, and it's 12-0.
right back at it
After a stop, Central takes over and goes 13 yards on the first play, Gunnar to Josue Paul. CC ball at the 50.
Capitalizing on the situation
Central's Gunnar Jespersen caps a 7-play, 51-yard drive with a 21-yard touchdown run. SFPA nearly ran a blocked XP back for 2, but Central finally got the stop. 11:09 to go. 6-0.
Good start
Loud crowd today sees Central start with a bang. The Devils force SFPA to a 3-and-out, then block a punt (partially by Alondre Rush).
Central ball at its own 49.
Central ball at its own 49.
Time to blog the game
Looks like we're going to start this one late since the Senior Day ceremony ran long.
A cold but gorgeous late-fall day.
Back in a few when this thing starts. SFPA not even on the field yet.
A cold but gorgeous late-fall day.
Back in a few when this thing starts. SFPA not even on the field yet.
A couple of notes
Wanted to check in now, since I won't be near my cpu Friday. Will be blogging as always from the football game Saturday.
Should be an interview I did with Howie Dickenman on the Herald's web site Friday night, check it out for his thoughts on the upcoming road games.
Talked to Jeff McInerney, who reports no injuries of note heading into the final football game of the year.
The Devils are motivated by this co-championship thing, so I think they will play hard on Senior Day. Expect a lot of points and a big win.
The men's hoops team has a big weekend. Saturday at UMBC is one of those road games that doesn't do much for them if they win, but hurts to lose. I think they get it done.
Monday is a taller order. I noticed today that Penn St. isn't a big favorite over Fairfield, so that's an interesting one to watch. If the Stags play well at Happy Valley, maybe Central can, too. That's one of those wins that gets you a 14 or 15 come March.
I think the schedule is really well done this year. There are big names that CCSU can be competitive against. Pick a couple of them off, and wow. The year gets REALLY interesting.
Of course, I'm getting WAY ahead of things. I couldn't even get Howie to talk much about Monday. Saturday comes first, and that's the right approach. Really nice win to get Saturday. Win in Baltimore and play well Monday and it's a very good weekend.
Finally, to that commenter below: I believe I did a small piece on P.J. earlier this year, but you're right that he deserves another mention. Speaking of locals deserving mention, I hope you'll all take the time to read my piece on Jeff Marino. Not because I wrote it, but because his story is wonderful. Couldn't be a nicer kid, too.
Talk to you all Saturday.
Should be an interview I did with Howie Dickenman on the Herald's web site Friday night, check it out for his thoughts on the upcoming road games.
Talked to Jeff McInerney, who reports no injuries of note heading into the final football game of the year.
The Devils are motivated by this co-championship thing, so I think they will play hard on Senior Day. Expect a lot of points and a big win.
The men's hoops team has a big weekend. Saturday at UMBC is one of those road games that doesn't do much for them if they win, but hurts to lose. I think they get it done.
Monday is a taller order. I noticed today that Penn St. isn't a big favorite over Fairfield, so that's an interesting one to watch. If the Stags play well at Happy Valley, maybe Central can, too. That's one of those wins that gets you a 14 or 15 come March.
I think the schedule is really well done this year. There are big names that CCSU can be competitive against. Pick a couple of them off, and wow. The year gets REALLY interesting.
Of course, I'm getting WAY ahead of things. I couldn't even get Howie to talk much about Monday. Saturday comes first, and that's the right approach. Really nice win to get Saturday. Win in Baltimore and play well Monday and it's a very good weekend.
Finally, to that commenter below: I believe I did a small piece on P.J. earlier this year, but you're right that he deserves another mention. Speaking of locals deserving mention, I hope you'll all take the time to read my piece on Jeff Marino. Not because I wrote it, but because his story is wonderful. Couldn't be a nicer kid, too.
Talk to you all Saturday.
Quick update
Checking in from the women's game, which Central leads by eight early.
Want to give you a rundown on the next couple of days. I'll have what I think is going to be a really nice feature on Jeff Marino as well as the final football preview of the season. Of course, the game coverage itself.
We'll have the men's games Saturday and Monday as well. Hoping to try something extra for Monday's game, but let me see how things are looking.
In the meantime a quick men's note: Freshman De'Angelo Speech will miss two more games after what coach Howie Dickenman called a "team issue" then return later next week. I think that's the Monmouth game, I'll have to check when I get a chance.
Dickenman didn't give specifics, but said Speech's issue "wasn't serious" and that he is expected back after the Penn St. game.
Want to give you a rundown on the next couple of days. I'll have what I think is going to be a really nice feature on Jeff Marino as well as the final football preview of the season. Of course, the game coverage itself.
We'll have the men's games Saturday and Monday as well. Hoping to try something extra for Monday's game, but let me see how things are looking.
In the meantime a quick men's note: Freshman De'Angelo Speech will miss two more games after what coach Howie Dickenman called a "team issue" then return later next week. I think that's the Monmouth game, I'll have to check when I get a chance.
Dickenman didn't give specifics, but said Speech's issue "wasn't serious" and that he is expected back after the Penn St. game.
NEC Marathon thoughts
A quick summation, then I have to run an errand before the big ones this afternoon and tonight.
Would have posted this sooner, but I was watching Northeastern absolutely steal a game from SIU.
Monmouth: Love the effort, but that's about it. The Hawks can't shoot and aren't great inside despite some size. Make them shoot, hope they don't goad you into a 48-46 game and you beat them.
RMU: Looked GREAT for 30 minutes, then the offense sputtered out. Velton Jones is a player, but he occasionally forgets that Karon Abraham is on his team. I was impressed with their new bigs, I might have too quickly assumed they would be weaker there with all the graduations.
If they can figure out ways to get Abraham the ball (and have him be less cold than he was today until the end) they'll be fine. Still can't put them higher than 4th for now, but 3rd seems in reach.
Would have posted this sooner, but I was watching Northeastern absolutely steal a game from SIU.
Monmouth: Love the effort, but that's about it. The Hawks can't shoot and aren't great inside despite some size. Make them shoot, hope they don't goad you into a 48-46 game and you beat them.
RMU: Looked GREAT for 30 minutes, then the offense sputtered out. Velton Jones is a player, but he occasionally forgets that Karon Abraham is on his team. I was impressed with their new bigs, I might have too quickly assumed they would be weaker there with all the graduations.
If they can figure out ways to get Abraham the ball (and have him be less cold than he was today until the end) they'll be fine. Still can't put them higher than 4th for now, but 3rd seems in reach.
Never question my dedication!
I just want you to know I'm up at 5:43 a.m. my time prepping to watch Stony Brook-Monmouth, then RMU-Kent St. Partly to see the NEC teams for my and, hopefully, your benefit, and partly because I am a sick, sick man.
Army wrap up
What a wild night!
First, a couple of nuggets. The last time Central scored 100 was that regular season final shootout with SHU a couple of years ago. This was the most points for Central since Tristan Blackwood's 40-point game against SHU during the 2006-2007 season. Central scored 103 that night. Before those two games, you had to go back to the 4OT game at Detrick vs. LaSalle.
This is the 6th time Central has scored 100 points under coach Howie Dickenman, and the Blue Devils are 5-1 in those games.
This was the 2nd most points scored by a Dickenman team in regulation, the most being 107 against LIU in the 01-02 season.
Ok, onto tonight.
Crazy, crazy game. Let's break it down.
What worked
1) He's baaaaaack: Remember earlier tonight when I wrote that someone was questioning Ken Horton? Yeah forget that. He was tremendous. Even had some blocks on a night where no one played defense.
2) Resilience: Central fought through an incredible shooting performance by the other team. Lots of times a team kind of gives up when that happens, but Central rallied. The same is true after they built a lead late and Army erased it. On the road, that might be a better sign. Central fought the home team off.
3) Plus-minus: Central only had nine turnovers, but forced 15 and blocked two shots. It adds up to a win.
What needs work
1) Defense: While Army deserves credit for making so many shots, some of them could have been defended better.
2) Dependents: Central got a little too 3-point happy, even if it did make one shy of half of them.
3) Keep going: This is a great start, but we'll know more in 2 weeks.
Matt goes man-t0-man
(we NEED a better name for this. PLEASE email me ideas).
Ken Horton: 34 and 9, 11-of-15 from the floor. Not much else to say.
Shemik Thompson: Pressed a bit early, but was fantastic as the game went on. One turnover in 40 minutes. Oh, and he played 40 minutes.
Joe Efese: Foul trouble and a lack of chances hurt him. Perhaps we forgot that he's still just 2 games past his freshman year. There will be setbacks.
Markeys Deans: The good: he was much better offensively. The bad: Foul trouble limited his minutes.
Robby Ptacek: His "ridiculous" shooting from the preseason as Howie Dickenman called it is gone, but he got rebounds and earned trips to the line. Nice to see him find ways to help when his shot is gone.
Vince Rosario: He wasn't as good as he was vs. Hartford, but his timing was impeccable. Great clutch shooting. 4 boards and 4 assists as well.
Terrell Allen: Ate minutes without hurting the team.
Devan Bailey: Likewise.
De'Angelo Speech: Didn't make the trip, no word as to why. Will see what I can find out this week.
First, a couple of nuggets. The last time Central scored 100 was that regular season final shootout with SHU a couple of years ago. This was the most points for Central since Tristan Blackwood's 40-point game against SHU during the 2006-2007 season. Central scored 103 that night. Before those two games, you had to go back to the 4OT game at Detrick vs. LaSalle.
This is the 6th time Central has scored 100 points under coach Howie Dickenman, and the Blue Devils are 5-1 in those games.
This was the 2nd most points scored by a Dickenman team in regulation, the most being 107 against LIU in the 01-02 season.
Ok, onto tonight.
Crazy, crazy game. Let's break it down.
What worked
1) He's baaaaaack: Remember earlier tonight when I wrote that someone was questioning Ken Horton? Yeah forget that. He was tremendous. Even had some blocks on a night where no one played defense.
2) Resilience: Central fought through an incredible shooting performance by the other team. Lots of times a team kind of gives up when that happens, but Central rallied. The same is true after they built a lead late and Army erased it. On the road, that might be a better sign. Central fought the home team off.
3) Plus-minus: Central only had nine turnovers, but forced 15 and blocked two shots. It adds up to a win.
What needs work
1) Defense: While Army deserves credit for making so many shots, some of them could have been defended better.
2) Dependents: Central got a little too 3-point happy, even if it did make one shy of half of them.
3) Keep going: This is a great start, but we'll know more in 2 weeks.
Matt goes man-t0-man
(we NEED a better name for this. PLEASE email me ideas).
Ken Horton: 34 and 9, 11-of-15 from the floor. Not much else to say.
Shemik Thompson: Pressed a bit early, but was fantastic as the game went on. One turnover in 40 minutes. Oh, and he played 40 minutes.
Joe Efese: Foul trouble and a lack of chances hurt him. Perhaps we forgot that he's still just 2 games past his freshman year. There will be setbacks.
Markeys Deans: The good: he was much better offensively. The bad: Foul trouble limited his minutes.
Robby Ptacek: His "ridiculous" shooting from the preseason as Howie Dickenman called it is gone, but he got rebounds and earned trips to the line. Nice to see him find ways to help when his shot is gone.
Vince Rosario: He wasn't as good as he was vs. Hartford, but his timing was impeccable. Great clutch shooting. 4 boards and 4 assists as well.
Terrell Allen: Ate minutes without hurting the team.
Devan Bailey: Likewise.
De'Angelo Speech: Didn't make the trip, no word as to why. Will see what I can find out this week.
Wowzas
After Army put on probably the best shooting exhibition Central will see this year, the Blue Devils scored 22 points in the final 5:02 of the half to take a 50-45 lead to the break.
Army made 7 of its first 9 triples in the game, built a double-digit lead, but the Blue Devils rallied with some great shots of their own. And a bevy of free throws. Central shot 20 free throws in the half, making 15. Ken Horton has 18 points at the break. I believe his career high is 33 at Albany 2 years ago.
Army made 7 of its first 9 triples in the game, built a double-digit lead, but the Blue Devils rallied with some great shots of their own. And a bevy of free throws. Central shot 20 free throws in the half, making 15. Ken Horton has 18 points at the break. I believe his career high is 33 at Albany 2 years ago.
Checking in before the Army game
I'll have some nuggets and hopefully another breakdown player-by-player like we did the other night after the game tonight.
Wanted to give you some thoughts from my guy Matt here, quickly becoming our best basketball commenter. We'll have to have some kind of award. The "Hud trophy" or something.
Speaking of which, I haven't checked out the CCSU message boards out there in cyber space in some time, mostly for time reasons, so please email me at mstraubblog@hotmail.com and let me know what you think about various things.
Matt (yes that's his real name, and no he's not me) checked in with a few things. First, he asked why I thought turnovers would be a problem for this team.
Answer: Because it has been for some time. Perhaps they can limit it, and I think they will, but until they do it consistently, I think you have to think of it as such. Remember, just because you're experienced doesn't mean you can't make mistakes. Do I think the vets will do a better job than the other night? Yes. But I think this team will have a bit of a bug in that regard going forward. We'll see if I'm wrong.
And by the way Matt, you didn't give me credit for getting the lineup exactly right (making me 1-for-3 in basketball predictions so far this year). Give Markeys Deans a break, it was a bad game, yes, but he's a much better player than that. Two of those ugly leaners, if my memory serves, were at the end of the clock, too.
There are two other reasons I think this is the lineup that sticks: 1) Vince Rosario's skills are better served off the bench. 2) I don't think they'd be a good defensive team, especially against bigger teams, with him in the starting lineup and Robby Ptacek the de facto '3'.
Wouldn't shock me if there's a change in the starting lineup tonight as coach Howie Dickenman might want to make a statement to Deans that he has to be better than that, but I think your starting five from Saturday night is the first five for much of the year.
Matt also said he thought Ken Horton "stopped working" against Hartford. I don't agree at all. The comparison I used was to a kid sticking his toe in the pool to see how cold the water was. he was timid, yes. But he got much better as the game went on, getting 5 boards in the second half. Put that through to a whole game and that's 10 boards. If he averages 10 boards a game, CCSU Nation will be doing backflips.
His biggest weakness, I thought anyway, was his conditioning, which surprised me. He looked winded at times and his shots were flat, a sign of weak legs. I think as he continues to work into game shape things will get better for him, and the Devils.
Matt loved De'Angelo Speech's night and so did I. I thought in some ways he was their best player. Loved the energy he provided.
Remember before the year I said this could be a lot like 2007 in that the Devils might take some lumps early as they find a rotation. I don't think they'll start 2-9 like that team (I think that was the number), but don't expect perfection for some time.
Finally, a thought or two on Army, which opened the year by pulling away from Vassar in the second half. The Black Knights shot a LOT of 3's in that game, with long-range shots accounting for nearly half their attempts. They also pounded the offensive glass, something Central fell victim to at the hands of Hartford.
Unless they make a lot of them early at home, I can't see the Black Knights having an easy time with Central tonight. I expect a better night from Horton and a stronger showing on the boards. Being on the road, Central won't get as many free throws as it did Saturday, however.
It all adds up, I think, to a five-point Central win. We'll see if I can go 2-for-4.
Wanted to give you some thoughts from my guy Matt here, quickly becoming our best basketball commenter. We'll have to have some kind of award. The "Hud trophy" or something.
Speaking of which, I haven't checked out the CCSU message boards out there in cyber space in some time, mostly for time reasons, so please email me at mstraubblog@hotmail.com and let me know what you think about various things.
Matt (yes that's his real name, and no he's not me) checked in with a few things. First, he asked why I thought turnovers would be a problem for this team.
Answer: Because it has been for some time. Perhaps they can limit it, and I think they will, but until they do it consistently, I think you have to think of it as such. Remember, just because you're experienced doesn't mean you can't make mistakes. Do I think the vets will do a better job than the other night? Yes. But I think this team will have a bit of a bug in that regard going forward. We'll see if I'm wrong.
And by the way Matt, you didn't give me credit for getting the lineup exactly right (making me 1-for-3 in basketball predictions so far this year). Give Markeys Deans a break, it was a bad game, yes, but he's a much better player than that. Two of those ugly leaners, if my memory serves, were at the end of the clock, too.
There are two other reasons I think this is the lineup that sticks: 1) Vince Rosario's skills are better served off the bench. 2) I don't think they'd be a good defensive team, especially against bigger teams, with him in the starting lineup and Robby Ptacek the de facto '3'.
Wouldn't shock me if there's a change in the starting lineup tonight as coach Howie Dickenman might want to make a statement to Deans that he has to be better than that, but I think your starting five from Saturday night is the first five for much of the year.
Matt also said he thought Ken Horton "stopped working" against Hartford. I don't agree at all. The comparison I used was to a kid sticking his toe in the pool to see how cold the water was. he was timid, yes. But he got much better as the game went on, getting 5 boards in the second half. Put that through to a whole game and that's 10 boards. If he averages 10 boards a game, CCSU Nation will be doing backflips.
His biggest weakness, I thought anyway, was his conditioning, which surprised me. He looked winded at times and his shots were flat, a sign of weak legs. I think as he continues to work into game shape things will get better for him, and the Devils.
Matt loved De'Angelo Speech's night and so did I. I thought in some ways he was their best player. Loved the energy he provided.
Remember before the year I said this could be a lot like 2007 in that the Devils might take some lumps early as they find a rotation. I don't think they'll start 2-9 like that team (I think that was the number), but don't expect perfection for some time.
Finally, a thought or two on Army, which opened the year by pulling away from Vassar in the second half. The Black Knights shot a LOT of 3's in that game, with long-range shots accounting for nearly half their attempts. They also pounded the offensive glass, something Central fell victim to at the hands of Hartford.
Unless they make a lot of them early at home, I can't see the Black Knights having an easy time with Central tonight. I expect a better night from Horton and a stronger showing on the boards. Being on the road, Central won't get as many free throws as it did Saturday, however.
It all adds up, I think, to a five-point Central win. We'll see if I can go 2-for-4.
One quick NEC note
Please read my total breakdown of the last 24 hours you'll see below, I put a lot into it and I think you'll find some informative things there.
But I wanted to pass this along before I finally get some sleep: The Mount lost by 15 to Dayton tonight, trailing by 9 at the half in what was a competitive game until the 10-minute mark. If I'm right about Central being better, this could mean that the Blue Devils could make some noise out there. Also, Penn St. only beat Lehigh by 14.
Both of those teams will be better by the time Central plays them, but who knows? I'll say this: If Central were to win one of them, even if the team they beat ends up having a bad year in its league, it would certainly be enough to keep Central out of the now 2 play in games if it were to eventually win the NEC.
But, I'm getting about 30 games ahead of myself now.
Ok, bed time. You should have plenty to digest here. Thanks as always for reading.
But I wanted to pass this along before I finally get some sleep: The Mount lost by 15 to Dayton tonight, trailing by 9 at the half in what was a competitive game until the 10-minute mark. If I'm right about Central being better, this could mean that the Blue Devils could make some noise out there. Also, Penn St. only beat Lehigh by 14.
Both of those teams will be better by the time Central plays them, but who knows? I'll say this: If Central were to win one of them, even if the team they beat ends up having a bad year in its league, it would certainly be enough to keep Central out of the now 2 play in games if it were to eventually win the NEC.
But, I'm getting about 30 games ahead of myself now.
Ok, bed time. You should have plenty to digest here. Thanks as always for reading.
A wild 24 hours
Ok, now that I have time and a net connection at the same time, let's go through a crazy 24 hours of CCSU sports.
We'll start with Friday night's huge win for the women. It was an ugly game and Hartford is way, way down from where they've been, but it's still a great win for Central since a bad Hartford team is supposed to beat a good Central team.
I thought Central's defense was tremendous, and I was impressed with the poise the younger players showed. I was surprised coach Beryl Piper went with Jessica Babe over Rachel Chandler, but it worked out, as Babe hit the biggest shot of the game.
Justina Udenze was fantastic, her best all-around game in blue if you ask me. She wasn't good at the line, but made the two she needed. You also had to love the offensive rebounding of Leanne Crockett, who does everything reasonably well, making her a tough guard.
We'll see if the women can build on this momentum. If so, it could be a good year. Lose the next two and it's gone, however. That's what this team did too much of last year. Win a good one, lose a bad one.
From there I came home and wrote a follow, then (after a brief rest) went to the office to help with my desk duties before heading to Mohegan for the men's game. Therefore I didn't get to follow the football game too much. Too bad nothing happened, huh?
Gunnar Jespersen was fantastic, and Central's offense is really clicking in a way where you wonder if they won't have a huge year next year with most everyone back. The question will be, can they find a defense in the meantime?
If Central were still alive for the playoff berth (yes, I know they can win a co-championship with a win next week) I'd be crushing coach Jeff McInerney for his decision to go for 2 in double OT. But on the road, the saying goes, you play for the win. Also, well, Coach Mac is a little crazy at times.
I forget who it was who said this to me at the hoops game tonight, so I apologize for not crediting them: Mac is the FCS version of Les Miles, LSU's gambler of a coach. Mac goes for it on fourth down, goes for 2 when the book says go for 1, etc. But 90 percent of the time, it works out for him. And the win gives Central a shot at that co-title, which I know the players are excited about, so good for them. I've given you my opinion on it, so there's no need to harp.
Which gets us to the main event of the weekend, the men's basketball game. First, since I don't know how much this got discussed after the fact, but the reason the pre game show had trouble on the radio was because all of press row (at least on one side of the floor) went out for some reason. As I understand it, SHU lost the end of their broadcast, at least on radio, etc. It was a wild scene watching everyone scramble to fix it. I mention all this because I thought it was interesting, and because I was sad that my interview with Marc Robbins was only heard online. I thought we did a pretty good breakdown while filling the extra time between games. I'm trying to get the hang of radio, I hope I'm giving you guys good insight.
Since it's nearly 2 a.m., I'm going to give you some quick one sentence thoughts on some players. Maybe we'll turn this into a feature, but only if I can think of a fresh way to do it. The whole "grades" thing is played out. But a quick thought on the team. Coming from 14 down is very impressive, regardless of the opponent. Central's full court defense was very good, and the Blue Devils got to the line at will, something they did not do last year.
Shemik Thompson was brilliant. After sitting out much of the first half with 2 fouls, he did everything a senior point guard should do down the stretch. Big 3, clutch free throws. Even stepped in for Vince Rosario after the game when Rosario grew shy when asked to talk about his game. It seems like a silly point and they laughed about it, but it showed leadership.
If he is healthy and poised, it's a good year for Central.
Ken Horton was timid. I had written the word in my story before Howie Dickenman said it in his post game press conference. I likened it to a kid who puts his toe in the water at first to see how cold it is. As the game went on, Horton got more aggressive, getting 5 boards in the second half. He also went down low and earned some free throws late. I think his numbers will shoot up as he gets his legs and, more importantly, his confidence.
Robby Ptacek was missing confidence, but he can make free throws with his eyes closed. If he keeps driving and drawing fouls, he can be effective even when missing shots. But he MUST play better D.
Joe Efese: I think he had 5 blocks. A good start, but he must do more on the other end. I think he and Kenny have to feel each other out a little more. Had 5 turnovers. Not Ok.
Markeys Deans: The effort was there, but the game was not. He has to be the "x-factor" type yes, but he must also make a few shots. He forced a couple tonight he shouldn't have.
Vince Rosario: Simply, the reason CCSU is 1-0. He was aggressive and made shots, a great combination. Must work on his postgame interviews, however.
De'Angelo Speech: The box score won't show how well the freshman performed. He rebounded, played solid defense, got to the line hit a big shot and drew fouls. Not a bad start at all.
Terrell Allen: A small sample, but showed he belonged at this level.
Devan Bailey: Hit a nice jumper from the wing and missed a three. Two turnovers in 17 minutes, however. He did have three assists. So overall a positive contribution.
Overall, I'd say the offensive rebounds allowed were a big problem, as was the turnover bug. But I have a feeling those will be the 2 bug-a-boos all year. Central can defend and has some scorers. Let's see how the Devils look when they play well.
We'll start with Friday night's huge win for the women. It was an ugly game and Hartford is way, way down from where they've been, but it's still a great win for Central since a bad Hartford team is supposed to beat a good Central team.
I thought Central's defense was tremendous, and I was impressed with the poise the younger players showed. I was surprised coach Beryl Piper went with Jessica Babe over Rachel Chandler, but it worked out, as Babe hit the biggest shot of the game.
Justina Udenze was fantastic, her best all-around game in blue if you ask me. She wasn't good at the line, but made the two she needed. You also had to love the offensive rebounding of Leanne Crockett, who does everything reasonably well, making her a tough guard.
We'll see if the women can build on this momentum. If so, it could be a good year. Lose the next two and it's gone, however. That's what this team did too much of last year. Win a good one, lose a bad one.
From there I came home and wrote a follow, then (after a brief rest) went to the office to help with my desk duties before heading to Mohegan for the men's game. Therefore I didn't get to follow the football game too much. Too bad nothing happened, huh?
Gunnar Jespersen was fantastic, and Central's offense is really clicking in a way where you wonder if they won't have a huge year next year with most everyone back. The question will be, can they find a defense in the meantime?
If Central were still alive for the playoff berth (yes, I know they can win a co-championship with a win next week) I'd be crushing coach Jeff McInerney for his decision to go for 2 in double OT. But on the road, the saying goes, you play for the win. Also, well, Coach Mac is a little crazy at times.
I forget who it was who said this to me at the hoops game tonight, so I apologize for not crediting them: Mac is the FCS version of Les Miles, LSU's gambler of a coach. Mac goes for it on fourth down, goes for 2 when the book says go for 1, etc. But 90 percent of the time, it works out for him. And the win gives Central a shot at that co-title, which I know the players are excited about, so good for them. I've given you my opinion on it, so there's no need to harp.
Which gets us to the main event of the weekend, the men's basketball game. First, since I don't know how much this got discussed after the fact, but the reason the pre game show had trouble on the radio was because all of press row (at least on one side of the floor) went out for some reason. As I understand it, SHU lost the end of their broadcast, at least on radio, etc. It was a wild scene watching everyone scramble to fix it. I mention all this because I thought it was interesting, and because I was sad that my interview with Marc Robbins was only heard online. I thought we did a pretty good breakdown while filling the extra time between games. I'm trying to get the hang of radio, I hope I'm giving you guys good insight.
Since it's nearly 2 a.m., I'm going to give you some quick one sentence thoughts on some players. Maybe we'll turn this into a feature, but only if I can think of a fresh way to do it. The whole "grades" thing is played out. But a quick thought on the team. Coming from 14 down is very impressive, regardless of the opponent. Central's full court defense was very good, and the Blue Devils got to the line at will, something they did not do last year.
Shemik Thompson was brilliant. After sitting out much of the first half with 2 fouls, he did everything a senior point guard should do down the stretch. Big 3, clutch free throws. Even stepped in for Vince Rosario after the game when Rosario grew shy when asked to talk about his game. It seems like a silly point and they laughed about it, but it showed leadership.
If he is healthy and poised, it's a good year for Central.
Ken Horton was timid. I had written the word in my story before Howie Dickenman said it in his post game press conference. I likened it to a kid who puts his toe in the water at first to see how cold it is. As the game went on, Horton got more aggressive, getting 5 boards in the second half. He also went down low and earned some free throws late. I think his numbers will shoot up as he gets his legs and, more importantly, his confidence.
Robby Ptacek was missing confidence, but he can make free throws with his eyes closed. If he keeps driving and drawing fouls, he can be effective even when missing shots. But he MUST play better D.
Joe Efese: I think he had 5 blocks. A good start, but he must do more on the other end. I think he and Kenny have to feel each other out a little more. Had 5 turnovers. Not Ok.
Markeys Deans: The effort was there, but the game was not. He has to be the "x-factor" type yes, but he must also make a few shots. He forced a couple tonight he shouldn't have.
Vince Rosario: Simply, the reason CCSU is 1-0. He was aggressive and made shots, a great combination. Must work on his postgame interviews, however.
De'Angelo Speech: The box score won't show how well the freshman performed. He rebounded, played solid defense, got to the line hit a big shot and drew fouls. Not a bad start at all.
Terrell Allen: A small sample, but showed he belonged at this level.
Devan Bailey: Hit a nice jumper from the wing and missed a three. Two turnovers in 17 minutes, however. He did have three assists. So overall a positive contribution.
Overall, I'd say the offensive rebounds allowed were a big problem, as was the turnover bug. But I have a feeling those will be the 2 bug-a-boos all year. Central can defend and has some scorers. Let's see how the Devils look when they play well.
A delay
I have LOTS to say about a wild Friday night in Detrick and what will be a crazy Saturday, but internet issues and tons of work to do required me to shelve those thoughts.
I'll try and get them all in before the game Saturday, but I might have to do a weekend wrapup type post later on.
For now I'll ask you to check the women's story out in the paper and the follow story to come, and remind you that you won't find more thorough coverage of the boys in blue (though I think they'll be in white Saturday since they wore blue last year at the Connecticut 6) anywhere than you will in the Herald. Game story will be in Sunday's paper, blog posts, follows when I can and a look at the Army game as well.
Long story short, keep it locked here, on our web site and in the paper for lots of Blue Devil stuff in the next 72 hours.
I'll try and get them all in before the game Saturday, but I might have to do a weekend wrapup type post later on.
For now I'll ask you to check the women's story out in the paper and the follow story to come, and remind you that you won't find more thorough coverage of the boys in blue (though I think they'll be in white Saturday since they wore blue last year at the Connecticut 6) anywhere than you will in the Herald. Game story will be in Sunday's paper, blog posts, follows when I can and a look at the Army game as well.
Long story short, keep it locked here, on our web site and in the paper for lots of Blue Devil stuff in the next 72 hours.
Checking in
Just wanted to pass along a couple of nuggets.
1) No injuries or absences to report for Saturday's football game. Can't remember if I passed that along.
2) We'll be at the women's game tonight, so check out all our coverage.
3) In the meantime, check out the interviews Brad and I shot on our web site. And thanks to the players who bared with us while we figured it all out. I think they came out well.
4) Of course we'll be at the men's game Saturday at Mohegan Sun. Will hope to blog from both basketball games at some point. But we'll have lots of stuff. Only injury I know of is Chris Baskerville, who coach Howie Dickenman told me last week "might" be out for a week or two, which, if my math is right, could leave him out for the first two games.
Will blog about injuries ASAP from the Arena.
Ok, football preview to write, so let me run. But I'll give you the gist: We find out what kind of coach Jeff McInerney is today.
1) No injuries or absences to report for Saturday's football game. Can't remember if I passed that along.
2) We'll be at the women's game tonight, so check out all our coverage.
3) In the meantime, check out the interviews Brad and I shot on our web site. And thanks to the players who bared with us while we figured it all out. I think they came out well.
4) Of course we'll be at the men's game Saturday at Mohegan Sun. Will hope to blog from both basketball games at some point. But we'll have lots of stuff. Only injury I know of is Chris Baskerville, who coach Howie Dickenman told me last week "might" be out for a week or two, which, if my math is right, could leave him out for the first two games.
Will blog about injuries ASAP from the Arena.
Ok, football preview to write, so let me run. But I'll give you the gist: We find out what kind of coach Jeff McInerney is today.
Catching up
Hope everyone enjoyed the preview section in today's paper. Well, I don't care if you enjoyed it as long as you bought one! Ha, of course I'm kidding.
Huge thanks to Brad Carroll for making me look good by laying out the whole thing in a way that looks great. Hopefully the info in it (the stuff I wrote) is good, too.
Also thanks to Anthony Della Calce for picking up some of the work for me.
Brad and I filmed a bunch of interviews for the web site today with the local hoopsters, so check that out.
One mailbag today:
I was asked for a quick rundown on the ladies. Well check out the preview!
Ok ok, for now I'll give you the 3-sentence version.
Everyone (including Gabby Oglesby) is back. Central was picked 7th by the coaches, but that's too low in my opinion. A top 4 finish is the goal for the girls, who have good forward play from Kerrianne Dugan and Leanne Crockett and Justina Udenze in the post.
The season will come down to guard play. If Alexzandria Dowdy can run the point and they find a 2-guard, it should be a good year.
Huge thanks to Brad Carroll for making me look good by laying out the whole thing in a way that looks great. Hopefully the info in it (the stuff I wrote) is good, too.
Also thanks to Anthony Della Calce for picking up some of the work for me.
Brad and I filmed a bunch of interviews for the web site today with the local hoopsters, so check that out.
One mailbag today:
I was asked for a quick rundown on the ladies. Well check out the preview!
Ok ok, for now I'll give you the 3-sentence version.
Everyone (including Gabby Oglesby) is back. Central was picked 7th by the coaches, but that's too low in my opinion. A top 4 finish is the goal for the girls, who have good forward play from Kerrianne Dugan and Leanne Crockett and Justina Udenze in the post.
The season will come down to guard play. If Alexzandria Dowdy can run the point and they find a 2-guard, it should be a good year.
TV stuff
2 additions to the schedule for TV purposes.
Feb. 9 vs. Bryant is on the TV package, meaning MSG, Cox and the Fox College sports thing.
Also, the doublheader on Feb. 26 at LIU is on the NEC package, and now starts in the morning. Boo.
Feb. 9 vs. Bryant is on the TV package, meaning MSG, Cox and the Fox College sports thing.
Also, the doublheader on Feb. 26 at LIU is on the NEC package, and now starts in the morning. Boo.
Update
to one of the Q and A's from below.
I spoke to a league source who told me the Gridiron Classic is "now defunct."
That's what I'd been told before, but since I got that question I wanted to double check for you. So no, there will be no postseason for the football team this year.
Hoops? Could be a different story.
I spoke to a league source who told me the Gridiron Classic is "now defunct."
That's what I'd been told before, but since I got that question I wanted to double check for you. So no, there will be no postseason for the football team this year.
Hoops? Could be a different story.
The mailman is back
Ok, I guess that's Karl Malone, who I never liked, so I need a different nickname. We'll work on that.
In the meantime, two questions I'm going to tackle today.
JJ asks about the Gridiron Classic, and says he was hearing rumblings that it was coming back, and that the NEC's 2nd place team would go.
I can tell you that it was my understanding that the GC was dead now that the NEC had the auto bid to the FCS playoffs. I can also tell you that no one at Central has breathed a word about it, which you'd think they'd do to plug the importance of their remaining games if it were an option.
I have contacted the league, and will update you when I know something.
2 more from loyal reader Matt, who we'll have to get some kind of award as one of my most frequent questioner.
Q:The lineup you presented in your blog is one that I've been suggesting they'll use all summer long. However, I see no way they can match up defensively with NEC teams because just about every team will use a 3-guard lineup. Neither Horton, Efese or Deans can guard on the perimeter, plus it takes away our shot blocking ability if Horton has to do that. Is there any talk of going with a 2-3 zone when we go "big"? I admit I'm not a fan of the zone d when you have the type of athleticism that we appear to have, but it would allow us to go big.
Just wondering if you have a different thought or any different knowledge?
A: Central used a zone more in the last couple of years than I can ever remember prior, but I don't think they need to that often. First off, any lineup you find will be shifting frequently. Devan Bailey will play a lot, Vince Rosario will play a lot, the other bigs will see time, and Terrell Allen and Mr. Speech might try and work their way in as well.
To your point, however, Markeys Deans is a tough matchup on the other end. He'd beat up a guard and he can step back and shoot against a bigger forward. And if you put a real big guy on him, he has enough handle to get by a time or two as well. So I don't think teams would be able to go 3 guards for long stretches against him and Ken Horton. A guard would have to defend one or the other, which would go poorly for them.
Coach Howie Dickenman told me his defensive plan this year was going to be "make you do something else." In other words, take away the strength of the other team whenever possible. Some of that could come by forcing the other team into a matchup battle.
Of course, by Saturday Devan Bailey could be the starting third guard again.
2) How does Joe Efese look? In my ten years of following CCSU, I've never seen a kid improve from November-March as much as he did last year. Is he still improving every day? The idea that we can dump the ball down to him a few times a game and get some offense makes me giddy. If every player on the floor can be an offensive threat (which is VERY possible), it will stop any in-game stretches where we struggle, despite any sort of foul trouble, injuries, etc.
May I suggest reading the feature about him I've written that will likely be in our preview section? If not I'll get it out there some way. And did I mention that the CCSU preview section will appear in Wednesday's paper?
I'll say this for now: I think depth could be an issue, as I see eight consistent players and I'd like to see that number closer to 9 or 10. At the very least I'd like to see a couple of guys who you feel confident could play when called upon if the Devils do get in foul trouble or the injury bug hits again.
Secondly, shooting can go cold. I believe it's contagious, which can lead to a couple of guys having bad nights. I completely agree that Central has enough weapons to think the 50-point nights are over, but let's also not turn this team into the Suns either. I think they're going to do well, but let's not pretend this is the perfect team yet. I do agree that the offense is going to be greatly improved, however.
In the meantime, two questions I'm going to tackle today.
JJ asks about the Gridiron Classic, and says he was hearing rumblings that it was coming back, and that the NEC's 2nd place team would go.
I can tell you that it was my understanding that the GC was dead now that the NEC had the auto bid to the FCS playoffs. I can also tell you that no one at Central has breathed a word about it, which you'd think they'd do to plug the importance of their remaining games if it were an option.
I have contacted the league, and will update you when I know something.
2 more from loyal reader Matt, who we'll have to get some kind of award as one of my most frequent questioner.
Q:The lineup you presented in your blog is one that I've been suggesting they'll use all summer long. However, I see no way they can match up defensively with NEC teams because just about every team will use a 3-guard lineup. Neither Horton, Efese or Deans can guard on the perimeter, plus it takes away our shot blocking ability if Horton has to do that. Is there any talk of going with a 2-3 zone when we go "big"? I admit I'm not a fan of the zone d when you have the type of athleticism that we appear to have, but it would allow us to go big.
Just wondering if you have a different thought or any different knowledge?
A: Central used a zone more in the last couple of years than I can ever remember prior, but I don't think they need to that often. First off, any lineup you find will be shifting frequently. Devan Bailey will play a lot, Vince Rosario will play a lot, the other bigs will see time, and Terrell Allen and Mr. Speech might try and work their way in as well.
To your point, however, Markeys Deans is a tough matchup on the other end. He'd beat up a guard and he can step back and shoot against a bigger forward. And if you put a real big guy on him, he has enough handle to get by a time or two as well. So I don't think teams would be able to go 3 guards for long stretches against him and Ken Horton. A guard would have to defend one or the other, which would go poorly for them.
Coach Howie Dickenman told me his defensive plan this year was going to be "make you do something else." In other words, take away the strength of the other team whenever possible. Some of that could come by forcing the other team into a matchup battle.
Of course, by Saturday Devan Bailey could be the starting third guard again.
2) How does Joe Efese look? In my ten years of following CCSU, I've never seen a kid improve from November-March as much as he did last year. Is he still improving every day? The idea that we can dump the ball down to him a few times a game and get some offense makes me giddy. If every player on the floor can be an offensive threat (which is VERY possible), it will stop any in-game stretches where we struggle, despite any sort of foul trouble, injuries, etc.
May I suggest reading the feature about him I've written that will likely be in our preview section? If not I'll get it out there some way. And did I mention that the CCSU preview section will appear in Wednesday's paper?
I'll say this for now: I think depth could be an issue, as I see eight consistent players and I'd like to see that number closer to 9 or 10. At the very least I'd like to see a couple of guys who you feel confident could play when called upon if the Devils do get in foul trouble or the injury bug hits again.
Secondly, shooting can go cold. I believe it's contagious, which can lead to a couple of guys having bad nights. I completely agree that Central has enough weapons to think the 50-point nights are over, but let's also not turn this team into the Suns either. I think they're going to do well, but let's not pretend this is the perfect team yet. I do agree that the offense is going to be greatly improved, however.
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