#12 Ohio State 79 , #16 Michigan State 68 (Final)

[Golferdow01]

Dow, I think you're exactly right. Matta saw Sullinger nearly hit the MSU player with the ball and yanked him.

As I reflected on the game, it seemed that Matta was making a statement to his players: if you want to play when the game matters, play smart.

Wasn't it against Indiana that JJ has a similar outburst?

Also, Dials made the ill-advised reach-in foul on the perimeter with maybe 4-5 minutes left (for his 4th) and found a seat on the bench.

It almost seemed like Matta was sending a message to the team with Sullinger and Dials: I will take my chances with intelligent play, even if it means keeping more talented players on the bench. Dials could have come in with 2 minutes to go. he didn't.

This is a message that can resonate for years with younger players.

It's a message that we've grown accustomed to from coaches like Woody and Tressel. It's a message that can pay dividends with Matta.

You and I both saw it.

I was very ticked that Dials committed three fouls on the perimeter. He has no business being that sloppy out there. Eventually it will cost us a game in on of the tourneys.

 

[OSUBasketballJunkie]

I was very ticked that Dials committed three fouls on the perimeter. He has no business being that sloppy out there. Eventually it will cost us a game in on of the tourneys.

I don't think anyone wants to see Dials pick up 2 fouls 20 + feet away from the basket. I view those two fouls as just being to agressive on covering the screens.


scout.com (free)

2/25/06

Pics from the big win over MSU.

 

[Golferdow01]

I view those two fouls as just being to agressive on covering the screens.

I do as well, but unfortunately it's difficult to teach an old dog new tricks. He's been doing this most of the season.