Life in the Red Group

Posted by: huskerhawk on February 9, 2012 12:39PM CST BAM

Posted by: loperbanana on February 9, 2012 12:46PM CST Sam Keller was in the system 2 years. While he was only available to play 1 year, he was voted Scout team player of the year by his peers when he redshirted. So it's not like he was just tossed out there and the others were told "this is your leader".

Posted by: Robka on February 9, 2012 12:49PM CST Your reaching for that comparison. I wish the best 4 Doc, but he has not been able to recruit well enough. If Doc had the new arena 2-3 yrs ago, he might have had a better chance getting players, but I don't know how patient dr. Tom can b? GO BIG RED!!!

Posted by: Titan1899 on February 9, 2012 12:54PM CST T.O. said he wanted DOC to stay around to get a chance to play and recruit in the new arena.....Will T.O. have a change of mind?

Posted by: 4BigRed on February 9, 2012 12:54PM CST Sounds more like Doc's obituary... Key word in those descriptions is "embarrassing". (Great contribution, hh, right on topic.)

Posted by: The StepnRaZor on February 9, 2012 12:54PM CST BLACK BEAN TACOS!!!!

Posted by: The StepnRaZor on February 9, 2012 12:56PM CST That was a pretty dang good BAM!!!... but you forgot the over exuberant use of exclamation points at the end. But hey, who am I to tell a man how to BAM!!!?

Posted by: 4BigRed on February 9, 2012 12:56PM CST Titan, I remember him saying that, but wouldn't that be "too little, too late"? If it didn't work, then you've maybe wasted another couple of years we could have been installing a new system. JMO

Posted by: Titan1899 on February 9, 2012 12:58PM CST 4Bigred......I agree hopefully T.O. realizes this but on the other hand T.O. is pretty true to his word so it could be interesting.....

Posted by: 4BigRed on February 9, 2012 12:58PM CST BLACK BEAN TACOS actually makes more sense than BAM. Or change BAM to DUH - they mean the same thing but might be easier to spell with the silent H. Stepn, shouldn't you be taking your voice lessons for American Idol? ;>)

Posted by: JamesoN on February 9, 2012 1:05PM CST I like Doc Sadler, been behind the guy his whole time here, especially last year, however look at our talent level now compared to his first year. We are worse now than we were then! Sure the league may be a little harder now, but heck if you hold a team to 50 points a game you should be able to win every game with a decent offense. However all we ever heard was play good defense you will win games, well we sure as heck haven't won many games recently. You need to compare our offense to the defense on the 07 fb team.

Posted by: Titan1899 on February 9, 2012 1:08PM CST What we need is a Center, we havent had a good big man in years maybe even centuries

Posted by: Titan1899 on February 9, 2012 1:10PM CST Now could be a great chance to get a new coach in here and start fresh for the new arena. Change isnt a bad thing and NU needs a change at the helm

Posted by: 4BigRed on February 9, 2012 1:10PM CST Titan, agree, but would add "sturdy" Center. We get plenty but they all break down.

Posted by: The StepnRaZor on February 9, 2012 1:12PM CST Hire Jerry Tarkanian.

Posted by: bigcajunhusker on February 9, 2012 1:14PM CST Tip to T.O. -- Get Brad Stevens at Butler on the phone and offer him ANYTHING he wants to get him to rebuild (or is it just build?) a basketball program here. Give Stevens a commitment that he will get WHATEVER it takes in terms of resources. Make the call now.

Posted by: The StepnRaZor on February 9, 2012 1:17PM CST Hire Patrick Ewing. He'll get us a center.

Posted by: BO-urNe sUpremacy on February 9, 2012 1:19PM CST is willis reed still around?

Posted by: Old School on February 9, 2012 1:22PM CST One thing TO will probably not do in this situation is give an ultimatum for wins. Why not? Because he knows there is a likelihood that the team has suffered so many key injuries and setbacks they simply cannot field a competitive team anymore. In football, it was acknowledged the talent was adequate and not performing. Now, if he wants to hold Doc accountable for the entire spectrum of events, he can certainly do that....Doc should've recruited better, had more numbers, etc., etc. But you will not see a repeat of "if you win out you keep your job".

Posted by: BO-urNe sUpremacy on February 9, 2012 1:23PM CST "This Looks Familiar", yep, when fans start tossing out names for new coaches, the comparison is confirmed.

Posted by: HUSKER!!!! POWER!!!! on February 9, 2012 1:24PM CST bch...Absolutely. Smart guy and a good guy. Put a staff with that you're looking good for a long time. He's one guy I'd be very excited about. I couldn't agree more. TO needs to be interested and engaged. He wanted to kick his feet up and let Doc run but I think we all know being an AD isn't that simple and you have to be open-minded, in touch with people and know that there are moves you have to be willing to make.

Posted by: HUSKER!!!! POWER!!!! on February 9, 2012 1:27PM CST Or maybe I should say you have to be willing to make if necessary. Looking at the leadership and direction of the team I think it's reached that point. Both sides need to move on to improve.

Posted by: Ray in Bellevue on February 9, 2012 1:28PM CST Osborne will wait until the end of the season before he evaluates Doc. At that time, he will give him some guidelines for next season which he must meet to keep his job. Osborne will be very deliberate in this process, especially after giving him that contract extension. I just don't see Doc getting fired right now.

Posted by: BO-urNe sUpremacy on February 9, 2012 1:35PM CST ray ray, <---La Suprema, my new GFF, whadya think?

Posted by: Old School on February 9, 2012 1:46PM CST BCH - you remember who Brad Stevens AD is don't you?

Posted by: huskerfever on February 9, 2012 1:51PM CST its not like we have a tradition of winning in Basketball......... whats the sudden demand for excellence all about?

Posted by: BO-urNe sUpremacy on February 9, 2012 1:53PM CST hf, lol, for real!

Posted by: TheGov21 on February 9, 2012 1:58PM CST @bigcajunhusker Why would Brad Stevens come to Nebraska? He's turned down better offers to stay at Butler. Plus his AD is Barry Collier, remember him. I'm sure Collier has some experience with that decision.

Posted by: Big Wave Dave on February 9, 2012 2:11PM CST I like doc. But....a coach could still take 10 of the top local Nebraska basketball kids in the state and present a vastly better product than this.

Posted by: BO-urNe sUpremacy on February 9, 2012 2:16PM CST Yes, this looks all too familiar, as in, '07 "fuhball". The tipping point draws near, the writing is evermore on the wall. When we start seeing articles pop up involving chancellors, the school prez, etc, we will know the time has come. Oz is still playing it somewhat cool right now, but growing fan unrest has sounded the alert within his mind: he awaits the opportune time to accelerate the process which inevitably spells Doc's doom all the while giving the appearance of diplomacy. Koolaid drinkers, too, feel the the heat. They typically have no solid opinion of their own, but test the waters, play both sides of the fence, but mostly the side that feels the secure. They criticize the "naysayers", appear to hold fast to the status quo, but when change is clearly the order of the day, they quickly join and disappear for a time within the ranks of said "naysayers" and reemerge discreetly when it is safe to say they supported the change all along. As with Cali, so with Doc: history repeats itself.

Posted by: Herringbone on February 9, 2012 2:17PM CST We need better basketball talent on the court. For whatever reason, Doc has not been able to identify that talent and recruit them to Lincoln. IMO, basketball is 99% ability and 1% coaching. Bring in a coach with assistants that can recruit and we'll start winning.

Posted by: mike5790 on February 9, 2012 2:30PM CST We need an undercover alumni investigation. We need to know how much Kentucky is paying their players versus how much USC is paying their players, and shoot for a happy medium? Wait, was that my internal typing, or did I just type that out loud?

Posted by: Blackshirtbacker on February 9, 2012 2:36PM CST I asked this very question earlier today, if this was starting to feel like 2007 with the football program. I was not trying to take a shot at Coach Sadler, or be mean spirited. It just feels like 2007. The reason for it is not so much the losing, but the way NU is losing. Big losses, and it appears the guys are not playing that hard anymore. Just like in 2007 with the football program.

Posted by: Ray in Bellevue on February 9, 2012 2:38PM CST El Supremo Hey, you should have fun with that!

Posted by: BO-urNe sUpremacy on February 9, 2012 2:39PM CST La Suprema!

Posted by: Sabretooth on February 9, 2012 2:39PM CST Shaka Smart, head coach at VCU. Born in Wisconsin and went to Kenyon College in Ohio. Young guy, lots of talent, can win games in the tourney as well. Call him up and make him an offer he can't refuse.

Posted by: TheGov21 on February 9, 2012 2:43PM CST @Sabretooth Smart has turned down offers from better schools. News flash to everybody!!!!!! Nebraska basketball isn't an attractive job. Yes it's a Big 10 school, but no history and no recruiting base. Nebraska isn't going to get a top flight up and coming coach. Just like they couldn't get Bill Self, Mike Fox, or any of those guys. Brad Stevens, Chris Mack, and Shaka Smart aren't coming here.

Posted by: husker brian on February 9, 2012 2:50PM CST Scott Spinnelli is the name to watch. A top assistant to Mark Turgeron at T AM and now Maryland, was at NU for 3 years (04-06?) and landed some of the better players the past 12 years (Maric, Joe McCray, etc.) And is known as a very good recruiter. Got some good kids at T AM as well. He would come to NU, he reportedly loved his time in Lincoln.

Posted by: taco on February 9, 2012 2:52PM CST Tomo is getting old and i wonder about some of his decisions. Doc could be coach at NU until Tomo retires. give Doc 5 of the best recruits in the nation and we will still be and play like we do now. it's his style of coaching that is the problem. nice guy...bad coach. bring in a good coach and you would see this current BB team win some games...not bad players....just being held back by the way they are coached. JMO... GO BIG TO BE CONTINUED

Posted by: Ray in Bellevue on February 9, 2012 2:52PM CST We all wish Doc well, but he still has to win games, especially at home. If there was some hotshot recruiting class waiting in the wings, it might be differant. Getting the big man just didn't pan out, either. And, while the transfer of Spencer here has been an asset, it wasn't enough to overcome the overall lack of talent. There seemingly just isn't much hope for improvement, even with the new facilities. It reminds me of Anderson's situation and the Erstad hire. We need to get a differant cook in the kitchen and try to resurrect this bottom feeder called mens basketball. Is that even possible?

Posted by: Ray in Bellevue on February 9, 2012 2:55PM CST El Supremo plus La Suprema equals a hot night in the old town.

Posted by: BO-urNe sUpremacy on February 9, 2012 2:56PM CST si'

Posted by: Sabretooth on February 9, 2012 2:57PM CST @TheGov21, All you can do is ask if he says no, well at least you tried. Not saying he would come, but what does it hurt to ask? He would be coming into one of the better basketball conferences with a school that has state of the art facilities. Granted Nebraska doesn't have a basketball tradition but there are some coaches out there that would accept that challenge.

Posted by: Ray in Bellevue on February 9, 2012 3:01PM CST El Supremo After you get yourself back together, don't you think Brian Rosenthal has laid out a pretty bleak picture. I wonder if he knows something more than he's telling? Is the handwriting that plain on the wall, or just journalistic speculation?

Posted by: BO-urNe sUpremacy on February 9, 2012 3:01PM CST VCU, Virginia Commonwealth U, never heard of it until now. Amazing how may small colleges out there playing good ball.

Posted by: TheGov21 on February 9, 2012 3:04PM CST @Sabretooth I'm not saying that you don't ask. By all means ask. But I guess my comment was toward those out there that think Brad Stevens or Smart WILL be the next coach.

Posted by: BO-urNe sUpremacy on February 9, 2012 3:09PM CST ray, Hmmm, hard to tell what the journalists may know. A flurry of hoops articles though this week, somebody's stirring the pot. I'm currently a casual fan in that I watch about 15 mins of Husker hoops per year and that pretty much is all I need to see. I say the writing is on the wall, not sure what Brian Rosenthal knows, could ask him.

Posted by: Sabretooth on February 9, 2012 3:17PM CST Getting the right guy can work wonders. Just look at the mess that Baylor was in when Scott Drew took over, coming off 1 player killing another, the coach breaking all sorts of rules, then trying to blame the deceased player. He took that mess at a school that is hard to recruit to and had little basketball tradition and they are a top 10 team today

Posted by: PT Husker on February 9, 2012 3:24PM CST I think we are about to expose the myth of bricks and mortar attracting talent. Perhaps the challenge of competing in the BIG would be attractive some coaches but the kids are not coming to a school where they are 2nd fiddle to the football team. Just ask Kansas.

Posted by: PT Husker on February 9, 2012 3:27PM CST I expect many to point out exceptions to my remarks and there are some for sure. But it don't happen often.

Posted by: Trashman on February 9, 2012 3:28PM CST Sabre Definitely. When I think of a program that was "destroyed" in a sport....look no further than the Baylor men's basketball team. Like I said in a previous thread, the apathy towards our men's basketball is making it seem harder than it is to develop even a "modest" program here. An occasional tourney bid (1 every 4 years or so?) is not asking for too much I don't think. A win in the dance would surely follow suit eventually.

Posted by: BO-urNe sUpremacy on February 9, 2012 3:30PM CST PT, Omg, all last year, or whenever it was, when the plans were being hashed out for this new arena deal, I kept saying, "just because you have a new shiney building doesnt mean you will have a good team." I was nearly called a "troll" over it which cost me some sleep. Time to say, "I told ya so", I guess. Anyway, tOSU has a great FB and BB program, MI usually, shall I go down the list?

Posted by: PT Husker on February 9, 2012 3:32PM CST go ahead Bo, it won't take long.

Posted by: Sabretooth on February 9, 2012 3:33PM CST Here is another name, but it does have some baggage with it, Larry Eustachy. He had a drinking problem that forced him from Iowa St. but he has Southern Miss at 20-4 this year.

Posted by: BO-urNe sUpremacy on February 9, 2012 3:34PM CST FL, FSU, Mizzou, ND, Louisville.....

Posted by: PT Husker on February 9, 2012 3:35PM CST And most that you come up with will not have the stature in the State that NU football has. Don't get me wrong. I would love to be proved wrong but history suggests it won't happen.

Posted by: taco on February 9, 2012 3:35PM CST T.Osborne has to know that Doc is not the coach to take us to the next level. will be interesting to see what he does. thinking Doc will stay until his contract expires. T.O always gets what he wants...teamed with state senator Ernie Chambers years ago to oppose any gambling in Ne. (no casinos) guess the only thing that did not go his way is when he was beaten by D. Heineman in 2006 for governor of Ne in a race he was the big favorite. i respect Tom for who he is and what he has done..but please do whats right for NU and the state of Ne...FIRE DOC NOW

Posted by: PT Husker on February 9, 2012 3:42PM CST Not many places have the fan passion for their football team like NU does. first of all we would share the fans in Omaha with Creighton. Can you see the fan base talking NU basketball year around? Even if they are consistanly winning. Good basketball players must have egos to be successful and I just don't see them coming here consistantly. But like I said, I would love to be wrong.

Posted by: BO-urNe sUpremacy on February 9, 2012 3:43PM CST wiscy, oregon, msu, unc, hmmm, baylor now, ksu, miami FL, byu, VA... all these teams run either very good or respectable FB and BB progs.

Posted by: BO-urNe sUpremacy on February 9, 2012 3:47PM CST TX, aTm....

Posted by: BO-urNe sUpremacy on February 9, 2012 3:50PM CST PT, people go to watch arena football, they'd come out for GOOD husker hoops, np t'all.

Posted by: BO-urNe sUpremacy on February 9, 2012 3:52PM CST PT, yer supposed to be the koolaid guy here, I'm not comfortable in this role...

Posted by: PT Husker on February 9, 2012 3:54PM CST If they are winning. there probably is some pent up passion waiting to come out for sure. Making it happen is another matter altogether. Winning consistantly that is.

Posted by: Trashman on February 9, 2012 3:55PM CST PT It's not about talking basketball "year around"....just talking about it during the season in a positive light more often. But we need a reason to. No one is confusing the love of sports here. But there's no excuse as to why the team can't be "occasionally good". That equals a tourney birth here and there. I think we are kind of slanting the expectations.

Posted by: taco on February 9, 2012 3:56PM CST PT..many BB players pick the COACH they would like to be coached by to become a better BB player.. bring in a good well known coach and the players will come....so will the Husker fans. GO BIG TAKE THAT TO THE BANK.

Posted by: PT Husker on February 9, 2012 4:01PM CST Well, we would be breaking about 30 years of tradition if it does happen. Not saying it can't. Maybe Tom is the guy to make it happen. At least he has committed some resources to it. Which has not happened since they built the Bob.

Posted by: NU1995 on February 9, 2012 4:03PM CST sorry bourne...I don't like yours as much. Too 'modelish?' The other seemed more real and pure. ;-)

Posted by: BO-urNe sUpremacy on February 9, 2012 4:04PM CST 1995, guess she's all mine then, I'll try to cope...

Posted by: BO-urNe sUpremacy on February 9, 2012 4:04PM CST model....citizen.

Posted by: Trashman on February 9, 2012 4:05PM CST I mean hell, look at the number of comments here.....way more than normal and by a variety of posters. Bo-Bru said he's watched 15mins of NU basketball in his life and even he's a little ticked off that some semblance of a decent product can't be put out there. I know enough from going to a lot of games during the Nee era that the "house" can get packed and rowdy. But there has to be a sniff of something developing in the program. And the "crowds not showing good support" is overblown. I researched comparable teams last year to NU. Similar team basketball prestige with similar records at the time. Some, like Oregon and LSU, have had even more success. Small crowds with fairly unsuccessful teams. In fact, NU was about 3rd or 4th in attendance outta the 6 team small sampling I looked into.

Posted by: boomboom on February 9, 2012 4:05PM CST if you build it they will come

Posted by: BO-urNe sUpremacy on February 9, 2012 4:07PM CST 15 mins/year, when they had Cookie I watched more since they played better that year.

Posted by: BO-urNe sUpremacy on February 9, 2012 4:12PM CST FYI, <----Denise Milani, mega model, Google image her for more...

Posted by: ABNU on February 9, 2012 4:25PM CST a coaching change is coming, how do I know? Tom doesn't do things like openly say he talked to Erick Strickland about possibly joining NU down the road unless he is trying to send a message to sadler. the message is get ready to be fired. I can promise everyone here, doc will be fired after the season. you can't let a guy who says they guarded as good they possibly could stay in a position like that. he is obviously so frustrated he is delusional at this point

Posted by: boomboom on February 9, 2012 4:29PM CST when even Vincefo says Tom has some tough choices to make............

Posted by: PT Husker on February 9, 2012 4:39PM CST So, the ladies are in a battle for the conference lead. Anybody know if they are on TV tonight?

Posted by: Wrestler on February 9, 2012 4:41PM CST In fact, NU was about 3rd or 4th in attendance outta the 6 team small sampling I looked into. Way too small a sampling, to ascertain much of anything from that pool of results? But better than D1 FB, for BCS crap system of who plays for NC championship game of sampling of two? So I commend you for that Trash, as you're 3 times greater than they are? But the exponential function of times greater than BCS system is nothing to get too excited about as in just thrice? So my advice Trash, is to strive for greater samplings to drawn conclusions, as that wouldn't fly in a university project and of course the results for greater sampling to meshing with standard deviations would also enhance the greater distancing yourself from the BCS crap system, also? While time consumption required is more vast in the accomplishment, Green Tea will soothe your anxieties of impatience, for the placating of such an undertaking? Good luck! Samplings of eye candy prospects might be more exhilarating a task, don't you thing? Just a thought? Hope all is well with you Trash? Half past 6 am Fri. here in HK and got quota? No samplings required? Go Pot Bellied Pigs! Just having fun, my Big Dog friend? GBR! Zhou Da Hong!

Posted by: taco on February 9, 2012 4:45PM CST abnu..no more experments with coaching...hire a proven coach, a top notch guy for a top notch school (NU).... the players and fans deserve the best money can buy. quit throwing all this money away on bad hires and get the best.

Posted by: ABNU on February 9, 2012 4:52PM CST taco, well said, with the kind of money Nebraska can pay, we need to get someone who can make sure this new arena stays packed and whoever the coach is will pay for themselves. lets get a big name who can bring in the top HS talent, and at least get all the good players from in state!!!! we can't even keep our homegrown players

Posted by: fleaflicker on February 9, 2012 4:55PM CST If you're the best would you come to Nebraska? I know the "IN" thing to do anymore is to just throw more $$$ at problems and they'll get solved. I'm not so sure that Doc is a bad coach......maybe he needs a raise and a contract extension and more patient fans.

Posted by: BO-urNe sUpremacy on February 9, 2012 4:55PM CST PT, BTN.com and Husker Sports Network.

Posted by: ABNU on February 9, 2012 5:14PM CST flea, 6 years and they are worse than when he got here, not a good sign

Posted by: fleaflicker on February 9, 2012 5:19PM CST ABNU.....just as KU probably won't play for a NC in football I doubt that NU will even win a B1G conference championship. But I could be wrong.....who would you pick to be our new basketball coach?

Posted by: PT Husker on February 9, 2012 5:24PM CST Hey flea, I assume you are a Chadron Alum as well as me.

Posted by: ABNU on February 9, 2012 5:25PM CST flea I agree we probably won't even win the big 10, but we can compete and make it to the NCAA's now and then like when Nee was here, I see no reason why we can't especially with a new arena, I don't think we can get a top coach or anything like that, but if we are paying on the lower end of the scale for bball coaches, we should expect what we have been getting, which is subpar performance, I don't always think money wins all either, I just want to be respectable. NU bball will never be king around here, so I know that makes it hard to find a great coach, I miss danny nee

Posted by: PT Husker on February 9, 2012 5:29PM CST How many times did nee make the dance and how long was he here. It seems his best accomplishment was winning the NIT. which is not terrible

Posted by: fleaflicker on February 9, 2012 5:35PM CST PT.....I attended CSC but did not graduate. I was there from '72-'74. I saw Danny play quite a few games when he was there.

Posted by: PT Husker on February 9, 2012 5:39PM CST was the Pink Panther still going strong then? and who could forget Bimbos

Posted by: Trashman on February 9, 2012 5:48PM CST Wrestle Very true on sample size....but I remember that the time I spent was more than I really had planned. There were definitely some consistencies I saw w/ declining attendance unless playing a rival and team's records. I'm glad I wasnt graded on the project, but it was decent for LITR material.... PT Nee was here from 1986-2000. He made the Big Dance 5 times.

Posted by: PT Husker on February 9, 2012 5:51PM CST thanks trash.

Posted by: fleaflicker on February 9, 2012 5:52PM CST Pink Panther, 120 Bar, Country Club, the Cliffs........get's a little foggy just thinking about those places :)

Posted by: PT Husker on February 9, 2012 5:58PM CST 120 was the cowboy bar when I was there. I went to the 77. did spend a little time with Moon at the country club however. LOL

Posted by: bignick45 on February 9, 2012 6:02PM CST I dont think it would be fair to let Doc continue to be our coach. He had more than enough chances to prove his talents as a coach he has not. It nebraska bb and has never had clout but with the new arena going up its gunna be like a pro basketball setting. Maybee we can get a good big time coach to come here and get great players and our bb team can start making some real money for the university. Reality says not going to happen Doc is overpaid to loose the same should be expected from all of our coaches your paid to win and Doc has never put a good team on the court ever with that new arena players will be in aww when then walk in the arena, I think its going to be a great addition to the state of nebraska and the city of lincoln Nothin but good things

Posted by: HuskyHusker on February 9, 2012 6:05PM CST I think Doc has been here long enough. Nebraska fans need something to stay excited about during the period between football and football seasons. When I go on the web to see Nebraska's result's, it's not to see the score but to see who they lost to tonight. It's rare that I am surprised to see a win. I like Doc, he just isn't getting the job done.

Posted by: cstxfn on February 9, 2012 6:38PM CST Anyone remember back when they tried to hire Bill Self who was at Illinois (I think) at the time? Was that before they hired Barry Collier from Butler? Collier seemed like a good hire at the time, so did Doc for that matter. I don't know why Nebraska has such a tough time with the basketball program. They were a lot like A&M in mediocrity until the Ags finally got the right guy in Billy Gillispie to energize the sport. Mark Turgeon did well to keep it going after Gillispie split, but the new fellow, Kennedy is having a tough time now. Not many programs out there can be as consistently good as Kansas, Kentucky, etc. despite the coaching changes. The Huskers still looking for "Mr. Right" and it's hard for fans to be very enthusiastic with disappointment year in and year out. I'm not hollering for anyone to get fired, just would like to see some reason to hope for better, or to hear a reason why it can never happen. I can't blame the fans for not buying season tickets under the circumstances that are currently in place. After there is a considerable upgrade in the product, the ticket sales are sure to improve.

Posted by: Wecandoit! on February 9, 2012 6:53PM CST Everyone talking about the talent level diminishing is exactly right. I was at the Texas-Nebraska 2007 game when Kevin Durant came here the one time before he went pro. That was a 180-degree different team than now (mostly Barry Collier recruits). Texas was a dam good team that year and we lost a heartbreaker at the end - BUT we competed. Also was at the Texas A&M game that year in Lincoln when A&M had Gillespie and was a juggernaut on offene with Acie Law and co. Again, another heartbreaking loss. But my point is we were at least competitive in almost all games then. We stole a few nice wins along the way. But there's no team chemistry any more. I don't give a dam what Doc said last night. This team has QUIT on him. Not to go the he said/she said route here, but a friend of mine knows a couple players on the team pretty well and they don't really care for Doc at all. Now I know a lot of guys genuinely do like him and he's not a bad guy. Drawing a comparison to the 2007 football team like Brian did, this team is doing the same exact thing: giving up. The heat is going to be on Osborne so bad from everyone alike that he is going to be forced into letting go of Doc even if he personally wants to give him another year. That's just my opinion. Seems like things are "gravitating" in that direction, to "mediocrity" .. and beyond.

Posted by: rev.redd on February 9, 2012 6:53PM CST Here is a little diversion for those not much interested in the demise of Doc. Pretty cool uniforms. And how about that corn helmet?

Posted by: LosSantosKid on February 9, 2012 6:57PM CST i wasn't real thrilled with the extension, but i supported Doc. all the tough bounces aside, he generally did more with less than even i expected. but we have more things going for us now and need more talent and higher coaching ability now. i would not be upset if Connie took over both the stellar and contending Women's program along with replacing Doc for the season's conclusion starting today. i would in fact consider it a blessing. i could see her with a Sweet 16 Ladyskers team and also maybe getting the Men Conf. Tourney eligible. i kid you not. she's a better coach, better recruiter and overall just more appealing...GBR think about it in a critical way.

Posted by: LosSantosKid on February 9, 2012 7:01PM CST Drawing a comparison to the 2007 football team like Brian did, this team is doing the same exact thing: giving up. -- that has indeed happened.

Posted by: LosSantosKid on February 9, 2012 7:03PM CST rev, we should try that one on homecoming this year...1 time. that's cool. great marketing. see how it goes from there. if it inspires...? GBR

Posted by: LosSantosKid on February 9, 2012 7:06PM CST BUT DROP THE HUSKERS LOGO ! just the N. i can't stand dollar bill's 'Huskers marketing makeover...to this day.

Posted by: rev.redd on February 9, 2012 7:08PM CST LSK, plenty of other looks that are more than curious...like the JoPa Helmet. I doubt you would approve.

Posted by: big red 1 on February 9, 2012 7:19PM CST Rev> I like that helmet. pretty cool looking to me. The Joe Pa I will pass on.

Posted by: LosSantosKid on February 9, 2012 7:45PM CST rev...combine that one with this concept and now you're talking: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:GrouchonoseglassesSPK.jpg

Posted by: LionsFan on February 9, 2012 7:46PM CST Hey -- Is anyone listening to the Lady Husker BBall game? I'm not near a radio and would like to know the score.

Posted by: LosSantosKid on February 9, 2012 7:52PM CST halftime 32-12...wolverines. oy

Posted by: LionsFan on February 9, 2012 7:56PM CST Thanks, LSK! Yikes. A little let down from the Purdue game?

Posted by: rev.redd on February 9, 2012 7:58PM CST Ladies shooting 4/30 for 13% and 1/15 from 3 point range. I think the refs put a weighted ball into play.

Posted by: Red Respect on February 9, 2012 8:15PM CST Lady Huskers taking their usual shots and bricking almost everything. It is very abnormal, so nobody calling for heads. Women have managed to come back from deficits (although 41-14 with 15 minutes remaining is questionable), and will live to play (and win) another day. Great young talent and chemistry, but perhaps too long of a layoff?

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 8:18PM CST As someone who's been driving this bus for around 3 years, I just have one thing to say... Please form an orderly, single-file line. Have the exact fare ready when boarding. Find a seat as soon as possible. Secure your belongings before we start moving and keep them there until we reach our destination. Also please be respectful of those around you. Finally, thank you for riding the "it's time to fire Doc Sadler" Express, even if you're several years behind the curve. I completely understand, as there are many older folks on here that are absolutely resistant any type of sudden/unexpected change.

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 8:20PM CST Also, if anyone starts that whole "let's hire Phil Jackson" garbage, I will internet fight you through the computer, I swear to God.

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 8:21PM CST One more thing, before I return to the basement... f*** Wheat Thins.

Posted by: Nuke1970 on February 9, 2012 8:22PM CST Big difference. Doc is a nice guy. Caliclown wasn't.

Posted by: big red 1 on February 9, 2012 8:23PM CST Bobby Knight !!

Posted by: big red 1 on February 9, 2012 8:29PM CST A top name coach who can recruit and gets the most out of his players. Whose with we ???

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 8:32PM CST Ok, this needs to be said. Shout-out to Country Husker's avatar. Ay dios mio.

Posted by: LionsFan on February 9, 2012 8:35PM CST Come on Huskers!!! Charging back! Whew!!

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 8:38PM CST Speaking of alluring avatars... remember that one with the girl, the jean shorts, and the tractor? You're welcome Husker Nation (NSFW). Not safe for WIFE. Don't open that link while she's around. Otherwise, totally open that at work, your boss might give you a promotion.

Posted by: Trashman on February 9, 2012 8:39PM CST Sabado! Yes! I knew you would return. This is great news. Diaz for a medical redshirt?

Posted by: Red Respect on February 9, 2012 8:49PM CST Ladies back within 10 with 2:20 to play.

Posted by: PT Husker on February 9, 2012 8:50PM CST Where the heck you been SG???

Posted by: PT Husker on February 9, 2012 8:52PM CST Doc Must have left at halftime.

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 8:53PM CST Maaaaaaaaan, I had just about given up. I was here a whole 20 minutes and Trash didn't appear. You're lucky I decided to make one last pass through. I figured you and PT had gone to bed. Not together... but... aww f*** it... you know what I mean.

Posted by: PT Husker on February 9, 2012 8:53PM CST I assume he was helping coach. LOL

Posted by: big red 1 on February 9, 2012 8:54PM CST Sabado> Long time no hear!!

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 8:55PM CST Can you guys believe that Wisconsin is redshirting this guy? Who the hell does that anymore? What is this the 1960s? Do they play on the JV team then? What gives? Redshirts. Pfffffft.

Posted by: BobB on February 9, 2012 8:58PM CST Brian, very interesting look at Callahan vs Sadler. I can't imagine why TO had to extend Doc's contract so far. Was someone trying to hire Doc? $3.3 million dollars is Doc's payoff - almost as much as Callahan's. Collier at least resigned - a real gentleman!? Basically, he can't recruit any better than Collier, maybe even worse. I like Doc as a person. But, at his salary level, he has to be more than a nice guy, he has to produce. If he can't, then TO or the next guy has to get a coach that can recruit B1G-level players. We only need three a year for goodness sakes. I don't expect NU to win the B1G - not in the near future anyway, but at least look like we can play in the league.

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 9:00PM CST ... and this kid (also at Wisconsin) must be a special needs student. There's no way any level-headed person would say this... "MADISON, Wis. -- Freshman guard George Marshall announced on Wednesday his intention to redshirt the 2011-12 season for the Wisconsin men’s basketball team. “I just looked at this season and came to the conclusion that a fifth year in this program will be more beneficial than what is potentially a season with limited minutes,” George said prior to Wisconsin’s game vs. Colgate. “I asked myself if it was worth playing this season, when I could possibly be playing a lot of minutes as a fifth-year senior.”"

Posted by: Trashman on February 9, 2012 9:01PM CST Sabado I tend to mosey in at opportune times. This is one of them with Mr. Sadler. Any thoughts on a possible replacement? Be quick, it may get "bingo-ish" in here shortly.

Posted by: Sabretooth on February 9, 2012 9:02PM CST Hey it's sing along time with Sabado again. P.s. Did you hear the latest Phil Jackson rumor?

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 9:06PM CST PT... Just haven't had any time for internet sports talk. Besides the same things have been said (over and over) for like the last 4 years (UNL sports in general). So I'm using this time to earn enough money to buy an island. Or a spaceship. Maybe Canada. Nah, probably a spaceship.

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 9:07PM CST br1... You still predicting a "top-half" finish this year? You wily fox you.

Posted by: Bucky Badger on February 9, 2012 9:08PM CST Sab. Shirt em if ya got em.

Posted by: Trashman on February 9, 2012 9:08PM CST Sabado What were those "star ratings" on that 1st guy? Never seen numbers like that recently on a Sadler recruit. And That is good that Marshall decided to redshirt playing behind Jordan Taylor. It seems WI has ample depth.

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 9:08PM CST Sabre... Sacto Kings were ROBBED!! ROBBED I say!!

Posted by: PT Husker on February 9, 2012 9:10PM CST Can I go for a ride?

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 9:11PM CST Trash... I wish I could nail you down on your exact reasoning for hating the redshirt so hard. Sooooo.... is it the highly-rated, or crappy players that should be redshirted. Doesn't really matter, you KNOW I'll find someone to fit the opposite of what you say.

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 9:12PM CST PT... DEFINITELY. We'll throw a tailgate on Jupiter.

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 9:14PM CST Can you guys believe that Syracuse would have the gall to REDSHIRT (ewww, I don't even like TYPING that word) a player that was RANKED 65TH IN THE COUNTRY!! Absurd. No wonder they suck this season.

Posted by: PT Husker on February 9, 2012 9:14PM CST I'm in. we could stop and get some moon chese.

Posted by: Trashman on February 9, 2012 9:15PM CST Holy crap.....D-Bucky even popped in for a little fun! What a nice night. Anyway, I did hear Doc is redshirting Gallegos to build depth and experience for the walk-ons...

Posted by: big red 1 on February 9, 2012 9:16PM CST Sabado> To much of the red kool aid. Was dilelusional.

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 9:18PM CST Trash... Throw names in a hat, pick one out. There's a good chance that coach will do better than Sadler/Collier.

Posted by: Trashman on February 9, 2012 9:20PM CST Sabado You are finding some pretty decent basketball schools to validate the "redshirt" with. Maybe we should look into all the guys LSU redshirted in football and compare them to Bowling Green? Funny how that "depth" thing works....

Posted by: Trashman on February 9, 2012 9:23PM CST SG That's kinda what I've been saying while you were saving for your spaceship!

Posted by: big red 1 on February 9, 2012 9:25PM CST I still like the Bobby Knight idea.

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 9:27PM CST Stupid Purdue Boilers! Don't you know that when you suck, you shouldn't redshirt a guy? Especially a guy that's 6'8", when you only have one upperclassman that's 6'8" or taller.

Posted by: big red 1 on February 9, 2012 9:29PM CST Sabado> I never thought we would be this bad this fast. We have fell considerably from last year.

Posted by: GBR in Texas on February 9, 2012 9:30PM CST Evenin' boys...long time no see Sabado!

Posted by: Trashman on February 9, 2012 9:34PM CST Purdue sucks?

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 9:37PM CST br1... Meh. When you fail to bring in any talent it's kinda hard to be good from year to year. I think the difference between the disaster of a couple years ago, and last year, was the play of Lance Jeter. I thought we were gonna struggle this year without him (especially if Spencer wouldn't have cleared academically). But then I watched the first few games with Bo and it didn't feel right. He seems like a bit of a cancer to me. B**ching at teammates and whatnot when they don't pass him the ball. So really, what are you left with? A team without a leader that anyone respects and guys playing for themselves. That might work for a few wins on a talented team, but here it's a complete meltdown.

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 9:38PM CST GBR.. What up man!

Posted by: Tennessee-Husker87 on February 9, 2012 9:39PM CST I don't follow b-ball much now, but the pictures of Doc make him look like a whipped man ... I can't remeber the why or how we ran Mo Iba off after several NCAA appearances (all one and done) ... seems to me that we beat the non-conference shedule that we were supposed to, won 20 games per season, was competitive in conference play with the likes of Danny Manning, Billy Tubbs & W. Tisdale and Norm Stewart, and at least made a tournament appearance. If they're spending nearly two hundred mil on a new facility ... the team ought to be climbing back to that level of 'mediocrity.

Posted by: Sabretooth on February 9, 2012 9:39PM CST Now Sabado, you are starting to sound like Skip Baseless. Kings choked like Linda Lovelace.

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 9:41PM CST Trash... I mean 15-9 (5-6) and muddled in the bottom at 7th place with a group of other teams sounds about like a Husker season. Does it not? So... you tell me. Does Purdue suck?

Posted by: GBR in Texas on February 9, 2012 9:45PM CST I haven't seen enough of this basketball team to really offer a valid opinion but I can say that what I have seen this year , for the most part, hasn't been very pretty. Hard to watch at times. Sabado...not much, just tryin' to find a job so I can retire here in Texas.

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 9:46PM CST So other than Doc getting fired, what's the topic these days? I bet everyone is excited to see Watson as OC at the 'Ville. Right? Yeah, thought so. Especially considering how awesome the offense was this year without him. I mean, FINALLY, we have a guy that makes sense in his play calls.

Posted by: fleaflicker on February 9, 2012 9:47PM CST GBR.......did you get my message?

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 9:48PM CST GBR... A little late on the draw, but I guess this means you didn't move to New Mexico? And PT failed to find you something in Nebraska? Or are you trying to get BACK to Texas? Is that "double bonus" thing you were trying to score still in play?

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 9:49PM CST Sabre.. The Pats choked. The Kings WERE ROBBED!!

Posted by: Trashman on February 9, 2012 9:50PM CST SG I would say no. You think you could take any of NU's last 10 years worth of teams and only lose by 3 at tOSU this year? They'll prob be on the bubble this year. Been going to the tourney with regularity for many years back to the Keady days. Non-comparison.

Posted by: Sabretooth on February 9, 2012 9:50PM CST Lets just say the football team has a lot of room to grow. IMO this is going to be the year that will determine if we are on the right path or not

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 9:51PM CST flea... OH LAWD!! What the hell is that avatar?? That's hilarious. Someone should do that with Suh and send it to Sipple.

Posted by: Trashman on February 9, 2012 9:54PM CST SG That Beck is a funny guy huh? Sabre Couldn't agree more. This season will tell a lot.

Posted by: GBR in Texas on February 9, 2012 9:54PM CST Sabado...it's still in play, but only until next Thursday. Still in Texas, I've got a final interview in Nebraska on Monday. flea...haven't seen it, I'll take a look.

Posted by: Sabretooth on February 9, 2012 9:55PM CST The SMF Kings would have won if Christie didn't have to seperate his crazy wife from everyone in the stands or Vlade didn't flop like a fish or if Weber could hit a shot that mattered. CHOKED I SAY!!!!!!!!

Posted by: BUCK4NU on February 9, 2012 9:56PM CST Good luck coach with your interview, hope it all works out.

Posted by: PT Husker on February 9, 2012 9:56PM CST SG good to yak for a few. Hope to see you back again soon. Nite all.

Posted by: fleaflicker on February 9, 2012 9:58PM CST Sabado....that was the pic with the Xmas card Bo sent me. The cat's name is Dirk.

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 9:58PM CST Trash... Doc always did that garbage. They beat KSU WITH Beasley. They beat Texas with a PLETHORA of much more talented players. Getting within 3 points is baby sh!t alongside what Doc Sadler has done!

Posted by: Sabretooth on February 9, 2012 9:59PM CST Where at in Nebraska Coach?

Posted by: Trashman on February 9, 2012 10:00PM CST PT Leave SG alone. He's busy researching the Northwestern's and Rutger's of the world trying to find a meaningful redshirt on a crummy team.....

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 10:01PM CST GBR... Good luck man. I hope you cash-in on that.

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 10:02PM CST PT... Later on man.

Posted by: GBR in Texas on February 9, 2012 10:04PM CST Night PT... Thanks BUCK. flea...nope, no message. I got the request but there wasn't anything attached to it.

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 10:07PM CST Trash... So basically I'm limited to teams in BCS conferences that haven't played in or won an NCAA tournament game? Those are some bulls--t stipulations.

Posted by: Trashman on February 9, 2012 10:07PM CST SG I say Purdue makes the dance. What's the bet?

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 10:08PM CST Trash... Just admit it. Your irrational hatred of the redshirt is goofy as hell. I'll sit here and wait.

Posted by: Trashman on February 9, 2012 10:11PM CST SG I think we're proving my point.

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 10:13PM CST Trash... Pssssssssshhhh. Bet? The odds are highly in your favor. Mostly because college basketball is pathetic this year and for some reason the rep of the Big 10 is highly inflated. They're going to get a ridiculous amount of teams in (which makes NU's bottom-dwelling status all that much more hysterical... seriously, you have to laugh). I'll bet you this, if we can also bet that at least 10 Pac-12 teams WON'T get into the tourney.

Posted by: GBR in Texas on February 9, 2012 10:13PM CST Sabre...check the inbox.

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 10:14PM CST By the way, I can't say it enough.. I HATE HATE HATE THE BIG TEN CONFERENCE!!

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 10:17PM CST Everything about the Big Ten sucks. I can't even think about anything good they offer, because so much of the sucky clouds the few good.

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 10:18PM CST Ok, I'm all fired up now. But the library is closing, and I gotta get back to the van before the warden gets mad. Don't want to lose soap privileges. Later guys!! I love you!!

Posted by: GBR in Texas on February 9, 2012 10:22PM CST Trash...who put the 'hex' on the ladies? Did I see that right, they lost to Michigan? At home!

Posted by: fleaflicker on February 9, 2012 10:22PM CST GBR.....should be there now.

Posted by: Trashman on February 9, 2012 10:22PM CST SG I've told you many times....the redshirt is fine with plenty of depth. With no depth, you're treading water. NU basketball's least worry at this point/or last years point/or the year before's point should be redshirting guys....

Posted by: Sabretooth on February 9, 2012 10:24PM CST Nite Sabado, Coach, reply back to you.

Posted by: Sabado Gigante on February 9, 2012 10:26PM CST Trash.. Doc can barely manage a rotation of 7. What the hell would he do with all 13? BYE!!!

Posted by: GBR in Texas on February 9, 2012 10:26PM CST flea...I'll take a look.

Posted by: Sabretooth on February 9, 2012 10:28PM CST Coach, the men put the hex on the ladies tonight. The men left so much bad mojo there last night and damaged the rims with all the bricks they shot.

Posted by: Trashman on February 9, 2012 10:37PM CST SG Doc? So you're concerned about redshirting....but Doc couldn't handle that many of em? Wha? I guess you validated why I never advocated any redshirts under Doc? Good chat per usual. See you at the "Hole" with BR1.....he owes.

Posted by: GBR in Texas on February 9, 2012 10:43PM CST flea...got it, response enroute. Good info, thanks. Sabre...you might be right.

Posted by: GBR in Texas on February 9, 2012 10:50PM CST Bedtime for me guys, maybe tomorrow. Night all.

Posted by: BobB on February 9, 2012 11:01PM CST Ladies lose to Michigan. It appears that NU has a Wolverine phobia.

Posted by: MercilessOne on February 10, 2012 12:31AM CST Ugh. We never should have fired Danny Nee.

Posted by: Bloozman on February 10, 2012 6:48AM CST Look at it this way, instead of calling it a buyout, just realize we're paying Doc not to coach anymore!

Posted by: swanychargers on February 10, 2012 7:18AM CST Ban the Bam!!!

Posted by: mike5790 on February 10, 2012 7:45AM CST Saber, Shaka Smart is on the fringes of a rumor for the Wizards. If you think that the VCU job isn't better than half of the big-time conference job (which would include Neb), you don't know basketball. Money may be a factor, but I think he's looking at (what appear to be) bigger and better things than Neb MBB. Although one could argue that, with Diaz, Neb versus the Wizards might result in the kind of stalemate that could usher in the Apocalypse... it would be a coup to get a guy like that at Neb. Not to say we shouldn't try, maybe the most we could hope for right now is a guy like Lue. First things first, we need to find a soft spot for Doc to land. Merciless, no, but hindsite is 20-20, we thought we were going to take the next step up... you know those teams that dare to dream the dream that is the round of 32.

Posted by: LosSantosKid on February 10, 2012 8:00AM CST swany, seriously, you should be docked 3 "!" marks and 9 letters for a year with an avie like that...ban swany ?

Posted by: LosSantosKid on February 10, 2012 8:19AM CST First-year Illinois athletic director Mike Thomas and Nebraska's Tom Osborne, whose school has been in the league for less than a year, both said they believe the champion will eventually be determined by a four-team playoff. "If you were able to develop a two-game, four-team scenario that would give the masses a feeling that we're getting a better sense of a true national champion, I think that's a good thing," Thomas said. Osborne noted that the NFL has its highest seeds play at home in the playoffs and doing the same thing in college would solve travel concerns for at least some of the fans. "I think if a team is ranked higher and has done better in the regular season, it makes some sense to play on their home field even though it may be a cold-weather environment and then play the championship game in a neutral site," Osborne said. But Osborne, who won three national championships as coach of the Huskers, knows no plan will satisfy everyone. "Everyone who looks at the plus-one model realizes that if you have four teams in play, you're still going to have the fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth teams saying we got a bad deal, we should be one of those four teams," he said. "So there'll be continual unrest until you have some kind of a much larger playoff." http://espn.go.com/college-football/story/_/id/7552662/big-ten-considering-four-team-playoff-format-amid-bcs-scrutiny

Posted by: Old School on February 10, 2012 8:35AM CST So, T.O. wakes up this morning realizing he has to do the part of the job he truly hates.....managing the mob. You see, he knows that despite his commitment to his coach to be patient, build facilities, work it through.....the glib one-liners rule the roost because they will overwhelm you (and they buy the tickets). He would agree with me that he probably has never seen a coach have everything he touches turn to lead quite as it has for Doc and these players. Truly Kafkaesque. So, sadly, I do see it slipping away from Doc, but not for any of the 190 reasons listed here. Question - now that you've thrown the whole thing under the bus, what to you want to do with the rest of the season? Most here probably don't care.... I'm going to let the players and coach know I still support them because they have devoted an unreal amount of their lives trying to make this work....and it will be a shame if they are discarded at this point. Truly wrong. B-Richardson, T-Mac, B-Ubel, would you like to come back and speak to the team in the future? No? Why not? Not even about perseverance, effort, .... No one asked you say? No, we were viewed as an embarrassment.....and that's the worst thing you can do...then you disappear . A non-entity. I'm overly dramatic you say? We'll see. Yeah, thats the part T.O. hates the most...if you keep creating then burying sections of your history, you're doomed to never developing any kind of tradition going forward.

Posted by: PT Husker on February 10, 2012 8:56AM CST I am not sure that Houdini could extracate himself from the mess that has become Nebraska Basketball. Doc possesses many of the qualities that Tom wants in a coach. But it is also painfully obvious that he is struggling for answers. I have said many times that the Basketball gods have dealt him a crappy hand and lots of it is not of his making. But it appears that more is wrong than injuries etc. It appears that the choices have been basicly removed for TO. Unfortunate but true.

Posted by: Old School on February 10, 2012 9:20AM CST PT - I'm still taking the position that injuries have been the downfall...with other issues a distant second. Connie Yori's team has often been used to compare...however she was one injury from a potentially bad slide. Their most important player, Kelsey Griffin, is lost for the season, and they predictably struggle that year. However, the bench gets to develop, chemistry improves, no one panics. Kelsey comes back the next year, and shazzam....32-2. We recruit well from that, but tank the next year (many seniors gone), no one panics, bench develops, recruits develop, shazzam.....2012 looking good. But, if Kelsey DOESN'T come back from her injury, You may only go 22-10, no sweet 16, don't get quite the same class, THEN you tank the next year (even worse, because you didn't get the same recruiting numbers), and it's very possible we'd still be struggling this year. All because of ONE injury persisting longer than expected. Connie (read: every coach) knows how it goes.....she's even said so this season. Now, I do understand that the inertia of the moment may be unstoppable, but I stop short of mocking Doc's decisions....they've been totally logical with the hand he's been dealt. Enough so that I don't think the extension was unreasonable at the time.

Posted by: drivebyposter on February 10, 2012 9:33AM CST Hey PT. Are you still without nicotine in you?

Posted by: PT Husker on February 10, 2012 9:34AM CST School, I agree with you on the extension so there is at least 2 of us that think that way. :). I have also been disappointed in Bo Spencer. But thats probably not fair. And yes, with Diaz in the lineup part time we were at least competing. Hopefully the last 6 games go better. Or is it 5? In any event I am not optimistic about that happening Sipple said the Kids looked embarresed and defeated on the floor. IMO only they can do something about it.

Posted by: PT Husker on February 10, 2012 9:36AM CST DBP, Struggling with that a bit. Somebody needs to fire my coach.

Posted by: Old School on February 10, 2012 9:39AM CST I'm talking to myself here, but here's another factor with recruiting no one has mentioned. The change to the B1G was acknowledged as affecting football from a strategic, personnel standpoint. Also, it can somewhat change where and who you recruit (Texas kids not quite as keen on B1G, etc.) So, Bo et al have to shift to other areas for kids who want B1G action, etc. So, we'll adjust, it might take a season or two. Doc's essentially in the same boat (without oars). I think his strength for recruiting matched up better for B12, but now we're in the B1G. Only, he has no time to develop things....he's on the clock. Was talking to a physician friend who's a Michigan alum, and he had an interesting take on NU. He said MU was in the same boat when Beilein came 4 years ago, and he essentially worked the B1G states for second tier players (Novak, Robinson, etc.) that were spurned by the elite programs, but wanted a "back door" into the league. Four years later, depth, talent, competitive in the league again. I was hoping Doc would catch a break to begin a process like that, but alas.....

Posted by: drivebyposter on February 10, 2012 9:41AM CST PT, No struggling allowed. The coach has laid it out for you. You just need to execute. Ignore the "I quit pain." The pain you will endure by resuming will be worse. So to you I say 'FIRE DOWN'

Posted by: Old School on February 10, 2012 9:49AM CST PT - what's your take on Bo? He is a fiery, take no prisoners guy, isn't he. I mean, he really got after Fox a few times last game. But, my take is he's the type that gets angry when the frustrations grow....so he tends to "lose it" rather than hang his head. I hope he can channel that the next few games...and lead.

Posted by: Sabretooth on February 10, 2012 9:58AM CST Old School, You are making it sound like Diaz was the next coming Bill Russell when he was healthy, which he was far from. Diaz did have a handful of really good games, but for the most part he was an average player for a lower D1 school. He is listed at 6'11'' but always seemed to play much smaller. He doesn't know how to establish himself down in the low post, takes to many fall away shots, and was overly passive. Also remember the fact that he put off treatment for his feet while he tried out for the Puerto Rican National team and if he made that team, he wouldn't have returned to Nebraska. So you are saying that Doc didn't know in advance or have a back up plan? Nieman's knees are shot and Almedia had knee surgery over the summer and his conditioning wasn't the best begin with so the injuries were no surprise coming into this season. Since this is Doc's 6th year, he should have had a back up plan but Doc hasn't developed a player, has no depth, and the chemistry is lacking. I don't agree with Sipple much, but he did have a good column today, I suggest you give that a read.

Posted by: dusty roads on February 10, 2012 10:27AM CST if we keep Bo around, maybe we can become a basketball school?

Posted by: Old School on February 10, 2012 10:27AM CST Someone earlier gave a so-called analysis of our players. Of course that was to prove our lack of "talent" Here's my observations, with a decided slant toward the potential I see in each which has been beat down by the circumstances. B-Rich - one of my favorite players. Marginal D1??? Are you kidding? One of the best defensive points in B12 or B1G....pressures full-court 30+ minutes and plays super half court. Only gets scored on when he's helping out. Offensively can get anywhere with the ball....I attribute his lack of scoring to confidence issues. The only critique of Doc is he not only needs to tell him to shoot, he needs to tell him to take over....not Bo. Bo - Fiery guy, athletic, perfect complement to Richardson, but needs to let Richardson run the show. Dribbles to much, but he can create and finish shots. Thankful he's here. Can lead this team down the stretch just from force of personality....but has to learn to coax the weaker players not bludgeon them. B. Ubel - Solid no. 4, shoots well outside. Decent rebounder. Was hoping they'd run some sets for him outside when he's on bigger player. Hurt the most by Diaz's absence. Diaz - Only a junior!! One of the top 5 posts in the B1G, even when hurting. MVP on the team because his presence changes the landscape. Good passer. Weak, but he has started to fill out some. Passive personality, but tougher than you think...has played in a lot of pain. If he could make it to his senior year, he would've been exactly what Doc needed, a project that grew to be a good senior player (similar to Maric) Talley- talented offensive player, when healthy....3 pointers or on the drive. Needs better shot selection re: the clock. Decent rebounder, but really could really be a good offensive rebounder if he could get his leg healthy. Still isn't 100%, and only looked about 70% last game. Couldn't take guys off the bounce like he usually could. Tony Mac - Mystery man, but very athletic. Streaky shooter, sometimes bad shot selection. Runs well. Good for the whole half if he hits his first shot. Drifts on defense. Decent rebounder. Many times guards the most talented guy on the other team...so has potential on D if he forces the issue. No one seemed to notice he was only about 50% last game. Couldn't hardly jump, and it altered his shot terribly. Couldn't have happened at a worse time, I was looking for him to have a big game against Michigan. He could've taken advantage of them. All in all, I've grown to like and appreciate the talent we have....we are not a barren team.

Posted by: PT Husker on February 10, 2012 10:34AM CST Sabre, I am not defending Doc but what backup plan would you suggest with the resources available to him? Diaz gave him a reasonable inside out option as he was a fairly good passer and could score some if not respected by the other team. His guards seem almost unwilling to penetrate and aren't effective if they do. Yes the talent he has at his disposal is not good so that could be on him and his recruiting. And his style of play may not appeal to some kids so that is also an issue. I hope he does a Barry Collier and resigns but I won't hold my breath for that to happen. Mind you, I am not saying that the end should not be coming at the end of the season. And I also think that if the seniors can't or won't play then put in the young kids ready or not. But, even though I agree that the end should be now, (end of season) I am not putting it all at Doc's feet. I projected 6 - 4 for the last 10. With a modestly healthy Diaz the odds were at least fair of it happening. But then again others need to step up which is not happening. Suffice it to say I do not envy the next coach.

Posted by: Sabretooth on February 10, 2012 10:45AM CST PT, As I have said a number of times, Nebraska's roster is made up of mostly guards and swingmen. Doc should have adjusted the offense to suit the players he does have available. Run an uptempo offense since you have no low post presence. Right now, our offense has no idea what they want to do. There is a lack of aggression in the offense which hurts something Nebraska has been doing this year which is free throw shooting. Hard to get to the line if you don't attack the basket

Posted by: Old School on February 10, 2012 10:46AM CST Sabre - Bill Russell he's not, but he's as important to this team as Russell was to his. I, too, was amazed at how weak he was as a freshman, but he has grown on me, probably because he keeps coming back. It also finally hit me how much he improves the team when he's there....night and day. So, I can't change him into DeShaun Thomas or Cody Zeller, but he did have some decent outings in the B12 against some pretty salty teams. How? Big man with a soft touch around the basket. (Sometime too soft, but there it is). Yeah, Doc's plan to have 3 big posts to share the load to make one 40 minute player didn't work out. If it did, he'd be a genius, but just because it didn't doesn't make it illogical, or wrong headed. He could've passed on Nieman and Almeida because of the injuries, but there was enough of a chance he had to take it. Again, hoping he could get 10 minutes from each of them was probably not outlandish at the time. The back up plan is where we're at.... Ubel shifts inside and the next (healthy) guy moves up. He would've loved for that to be Elliason, but it didn't work out that way. Maybe your next coaching selection will have all these contingencies taken care of, but I doubt it, at least for a few years.

Posted by: BUCK4NU on February 10, 2012 10:54AM CST Old School Here is how I would rate the players you did. B-Rich I agree he is a solid D1 player with good skills but totaly lacks confidence. Why, I can't say, but if he hasn't got it by his 5th year he never will. Needs to be able to take over a game but hasn't show many times that he will. I do like him alot. Great kid. Bo-OK player would be a perfect compliment if B-Rich was the confident player we need. As it is his turn over to asst ratio is bad for any gaurd. I had hopes he would be much better than he is. Ubel is an OK forward, and a good Offensive rebounder. Acxtually leads the BIG in O-rebounding per game. Very weak around the basket, and gets schooled defensively alot. Even when DIaz is playing. The kid has worked really hard to get stronger. It is easy to see that he has put on alot of size since he got here. Diaz. He might only be a JR, but has not improved enough in his time here. Yes his feet hurt and I feel bad for him but as was stated he would not have come back had he made his national team anyway. Tally I have not been impressed with. Even when healthy he didn't play really good defense and in the system Doc plays he needs to do that. He doesn't make really good descisions with the ball alot either. stops his dribble in traffic, and get hung up alot. Tony Should be the baest player we have but has never really developed. Gets lazy on D. And my question would be was he hurt or was he just doging it. I would like to think he was hurt, but then why not gove some young guys in there that are healthy. I will ad one more. C-Walker. He is by far the best rebounder we have. Sees the ball coming off the rim and gets to where it is going. Wish he had more offensive ability. He would be the best player on the court if he did. I understand you see potential, and I would agree, but after 6 years I would say Doc and his staff have not been able to develope any player.

Posted by: PT Husker on February 10, 2012 10:56AM CST Old School Do you feel lonesome? I do.

Posted by: Sabretooth on February 10, 2012 11:03AM CST Don't feel lonesome PT. I'm glad to see people with passion about our basketball program. We all want our basketball program to be all it can be and there is nothing wrong with a good, healthy, respectful debate.

Posted by: BUCK4NU on February 10, 2012 11:04AM CST Old school I have a question for you. If Fox is the best player we have to come off the bench since Diaz went down, what does that say to you about the other kids we have there? He is only listed at 6'4 and 195, so he is not in there because of his size or his blazing speed or his scoring ability.

Posted by: Old School on February 10, 2012 11:06AM CST Sabre - It's sooooo easy to say run up tempo, but you run the risk of getting stomped if your personnel isn't designed for it. Just because they're guards and swingmen doesn't mean they're automatically suited to run. You have to be good enough rebounders to get the defensive board and go. Good enough 3 point shooters to shoot early in transition if you don't get a lay up. And, for now , a lot of the teams we see are bigger and just as fast. So, you have to SHORTEN THE GAME by running the clock. If you are not the most talented team on the floor that night, any coach in america (Self, Roy Williams, Calipari, etc.) will use the clock to his advantage.

Posted by: BUCK4NU on February 10, 2012 11:12AM CST My other problem is that with the recruits he has signed I don't see us as any better next year. The only two people on the team that seem to be able to handle the ball will both be gone, and your inside game is most likely be gone.

Posted by: Sabretooth on February 10, 2012 11:15AM CST So as opposed to how the offense is running now passing the ball around the perimeter and taking jump shots as the clock runs down? Nebraska is not a great shooting team and if you give the opposing team a chance to set their half court defense they struggle even more

Posted by: BUCK4NU on February 10, 2012 11:22AM CST Sabre I don't mind that they try and slow the game down, but it is the way they do it. As you say they pass the ball around the perimitter until 8 seconds is left on the clock then they take a desperation shot. You can run through offensive sets and try to score but it doesn't seem like they do. I don't know how many times I watched someone make a pick and roll to the basket with very little D and nobaody even looked to see if it was there. Happened the entire Michigan game. Even a 10 year old kid behind me was asking his dad why we don't try to get the ball to the guy going to the hoop! LOL

Posted by: Old School on February 10, 2012 11:23AM CST Buck - It says next 2 guys who he was planning to be there are injured. It says he's the next guy on the bench. It says he's on the team because he was the best walk on option at the time for the scholarship players to play against. It says that if he sticks beyond this year, Doc was hoping his game would grow and maybe become a role player by year 4 or 5. When Michigan emptied it's bench the other night, there were some Fox type players out there too. (not the guy who hit 3 threes, but the guy who about broke the backboard from 15 feet) It's not as uncommon as you think for programs in a building mode, holding scholarships open for later. Look, my second oldest played against Fox too, and I'm as surprised as anyone he's on the roster. Solid NAIA, DII type guy. But somehow he got the chance (probably by his own determination and Doc's unfortunate need) is a good shooter, fundamentally sound, so he finds himself on the floor. If we get enough scholarship recruits his time will pass. If not, I'll support him too.

Posted by: PT Husker on February 10, 2012 11:30AM CST Well dudes, I see nobody saying that Doc's time here is not over. Or should be. But I also see the reason for misplaced (in hindsight) optimism. Lets use b Rich as an example. Doc has begged him to step up because he see the potential. It has only happened on rare occasion. Coach or player? Any coach is an easy target when things go south but the problems are not all of his making. So I am wishing Doc good luck and God Speed.

Posted by: BUCK4NU on February 10, 2012 11:37AM CST Old School several of the kids that were on the floor late in the game for us were scholarship players. Doc has 13 kids on schollarship. He isn't holding any back. I think you misunderstand what I am saying. I support him, I support all these kids. There is no reason not too. I am just passed supporting a guy that just hasn't shown that he can recruit good enough tallent that a kid like Fox is able to see the floor, except at the end of a game. He also doesn't seem to be able to coach it either IMO. If you have been to as many games as I think you have, then you have to see that the recruiting is not what it should be. Small schools are getting better athletes than us, and why? I'm not saying we should be able to get even a top 100 player right now. But we should be able to get 1 or even 2 in the next 100.

Posted by: Old School on February 10, 2012 11:42AM CST Buck - I think you're eval of the team talent is good reasonable, and makes sense to me. I did forget about Walker, but you covered him well. The most significant thing I can critique on the offensive side re: scoring is our lack of confidence, and that is not that surprising. I would just like B-Rich, Ubel, Walker, and anyone else be ready to receive the ball ANTICIPATING to shoot. It's a split second thing, but I know we can shoot because we've had some good moments this season. Sabre - I agree on having a one-on-one contest late in the shot clock is not the way it's done. I think that's what Richardson is talking about when he said people get selfish. The guy with the ball gets a little panicky with 10 sec and we quit moving and settle for a ball screen. Watch Northwestern run the clock....still screening and cutting with 10 sec left. But of course, Carmody has his talent set up for that....since Princeton. We, on the other hand, don't have a beavy of 3 point shooters, but pieced together guys who have been working on a post-heavy half court system. I do understand where Doc is coming from when he basically says their retooling things on the move. You just don't decide to run Princeton (or any half court back screen system) with all the nuances in a couple of weeks during the season. You don't have enough practice time to develop it well (I'm assuming everyone hear wants it run to precision).

Posted by: Sabretooth on February 10, 2012 11:46AM CST Have you heard of Sheldon Jeter? 6'6'' 190 lbs G/F class of 2012. Ranked #1 recruit in Pittsburgh area. Cousins with Lance Jeter. Did come to Lincoln to hang with Lance and the team, shoot around the Bob. Arkansas, Temple, Seaton Hall, Wisconsin, and St Joe's all showing interest and have offers. He has interest in Nebraska, but Nebraska hasn't offered.

Posted by: Sabretooth on February 10, 2012 11:51AM CST The thing with the offense though is it hasn't been just this year. Doc's offense has struggled since he got here. No real improvement in 6 years

Posted by: Old School on February 10, 2012 12:02PM CST Buck - I feel your pain for the program, and this has been a mind numbing, grueling stretch. I am basically responding to the glib, no-thought, throw out the bums mentality. No offense intended to you or other enlightened persons. Also, I do love the game (dare I say more than football) and marvel at the abilities of today's coaches and players. So, I get tired of seeing coaches and players ripped. Somehow, the beauty of the game speaks to me, even when we are imploding. It all goes away when I see Fox double down in time on D (he's struggling to move with elite speed) but he gets there in time.....boxes out and gets a rebound against Tim Hardaway. I feel good for him. And the score doesn't matter right then....Next possession he gets a little bold and tries to take his man to the basket....and gets picked :( Bo gives him an earful, but I'm pulling for him that he doesn't' lose his confidence...and builds on it next time. Every player is like that to me....I really love them all...especially when they they have to compete against several thousand in the stands and in the media.

Posted by: BUCK4NU on February 10, 2012 12:15PM CST Old school I think you and I are closer than either of us realize. I have always loved basketball, and appreciate the game. I did see those plays with Fox. I also apreciate that he is trying. My son also played against him, although he is a few years younger,and you are correct in what he would be good at. NAIA or DII. He does all the things you would like to see your "athletes" do. I do believe that also comes back to coaching.

Posted by: PT Husker on February 10, 2012 12:26PM CST didn't he transfer from Western Missu State and walk on?

Posted by: Old School on February 10, 2012 12:28PM CST Buck - I'm probably a little slow on the uptake re: lack of depth issue, but yeah, I don't understand how Fox can get ahead of Rivers or Josiah Moore, except he must think the game better at this point, especially on D. Those two seem to have a good pedigree on paper, but they're a long way from home in a tempest that keeps getting worse. You have to have a strong constitution to want to step into the fight. It probably works in Fox's favor to be "home" and have some family and friend support.

Posted by: Old School on February 10, 2012 12:42PM CST PT - Northwest MO in Marysville. I thought he was a walk on, but maybe he got some $$ love from Doc. Now, I know he had some knee problems, so if that is still limiting him, maybe Doc was originally planning to use him more on the perimeter, but the speed isn't there, thus the move inside. As long as you have enough offensive options on the floor, someone like him can be an effective relief player if he can guard and keep an opposing athlete off the offensive boards. Do that, and you get may some PT.

Posted by: half full on February 10, 2012 12:47PM CST Thanks for all your thoughts gentlemen. Made my lunch break. Great insights Buck & Old School & Sabre. I really enjoy watching the game in a similar way. Love to watch the players develop. I also appreciate watching the best players come in a show off their talents. It is a beautiful sport.

Posted by: Old School on February 10, 2012 12:55PM CST One last comment before going...I would love to see Doc "release the hounds" during this last stretch. Tell the boys there's nothing to lose, sharpen your elbows, take no prisoners, and go down fighting.... I have picked up on a certain elitist attitude regarding us from other B1G programs (not just basketball), and I don't think anyone should leave Devaney without nursing their wounds..... Come a runnin' boys Don't you hear that noise like the thunder in the sky How it rolls along in a good old song From the sons of Nebraski. Now it's coming near with a rising cheer That will sweep all foes away, So with all our vim We are bound to win and we're going to win today.

Posted by: half full on February 10, 2012 12:56PM CST I was just scanning the roster. It does not look good for next season. This season was the one Doc has been building toward and the wheels completely fell of. I am not too impressed with the incoming class of recruits. I do believe it is time for a change.

Posted by: Herringbone on February 10, 2012 1:14PM CST The question is who will T.O. hire to replace Doc and can they recruit?

Posted by: casualobserver on February 10, 2012 1:28PM CST -------------------- PT: Your tempered remarks toward Doc and the Husker program are important to this Blog and can serve as a good example for others to give consideration to; as right now, we're caught up in a very vulnerable period where despair reigns. At this point piling on with negatives most likely will produce more negatives in terms of lowering fan interest, lowering possible new coach hiree interest, and lowering future recruit interest. The stage is probably already being set by the powers that be, to move the Husker basketball to a new level. There was a well-known brokerage house that once said several years ago, "bear markets don't last forever". That probably applies to our past and current basketball program. Our fan patience is critially being tested right now. Lets get thru this thing while awaiting bigger and better things to happen. It will require energertic and innovative attitudes by higher management to get the right action plan in place and it must start now.

Posted by: BUCK4NU on February 10, 2012 2:05PM CST Thanks HF, One of my frustations the other night was that fact I was not overly impressed with Michigan. I thought they would be a tougher team. Maybe they played down to the compitition, but they have alot of holes. And old school is right. There was a kid that came off their bench late in the game that shot lights out! He must not do some things right for a kid that can shoot that well to be on the bench.

Posted by: PT Husker on February 10, 2012 2:11PM CST These convos are much better when held "after the heat of the moment". It makes it enjoyable to blog even if the subject is not pleasent.

Posted by: HuskerMose on February 10, 2012 2:22PM CST Awesome posts above. It's nice to see it broken down and analyzed instead of leaving it at "we're awful, fire Doc!" of which I am guilty.

Posted by: BUCK4NU on February 10, 2012 2:47PM CST It also helps that we don't have people making statements without trying to back up the thought. I feel I know basketball pretty well, and like old school I look at different things in a game than some people.

Posted by: BO-urNe sUpremacy on February 10, 2012 2:48PM CST I don't think this is that complicated or has to be that negative or painful, even though I went off the other day a bit from the absurdity of some of Doc's remarks. From a birdseye view it is hard not to see that NE Hoops isn't going too far under Doc: 1 step forward, 2 back, 2 forward, 1 back, etc. Also, the little bit that I've observed over the years I've never seen a Doc team that can shoot the ball, something is really missing there. Recruiting is weak. To his credit, he's put some teams on the floor that can play some very good D. I've played some hoops in my day so have somewhat of an eye/understanding of the game--mostly follow pro ball though. Anyway, it's not personal at all, but it's time for a change to a much better directon and Doc gets his buyout most likely(oh yea, that's what angers me). Husker fans deserve and want more, so do it.

Posted by: BUCK4NU on February 10, 2012 2:51PM CST One thing this year has made me realize is how much we relied on Jeter last year!

Posted by: BO-urNe sUpremacy on February 10, 2012 2:56PM CST oook, ready for another fuhball thread...

Posted by: GBR in Texas on February 10, 2012 2:57PM CST I would never advocate the firing of one of our coaches unless it was for 'cause'. Should it happen, however, I do know a certain Big East basketball coach whose team is currently 20-5 and 9-3 in the Big East. I coached him when he was in high school. "Big Head" was his nickname, it had a 'dual' meaning.

Posted by: BUCK4NU on February 10, 2012 3:02PM CST Firing is such a strong word coach. How about part ways? Isn't that the PC way to say that?

Posted by: GBR in Texas on February 10, 2012 3:05PM CST BUCK...yes, that would do it. Most administrators I know use the term "we've decided to go in another direction." Buzz Williams is the coach's name btw. He's the head coach at Marquette.

Posted by: GBR in Texas on February 10, 2012 3:07PM CST Crap, just looked at the time. Gotta get to the weight room, kids will be there in 5 minutes. Be back later.

Posted by: Old School on February 10, 2012 3:09PM CST OK, I'm movin' on to the rest of the schedule.....enough about the past (although I will not concede the Michigan game was the tipping point on the entire 6 years of Doc's resume here). Best case scenario is 3-3 before the tournament if the remaining guys stay healthy and they pull together. Can we win without Diaz? First the players must know they can. I saw how down they were last game before the tip. Totally understandable - Diaz gone, Talley and McCray hobbling, the tension was palpable....and we miss our first 9 of 10. Badly. Never recover. Penn St - away is GREAT. They've had a whole week to prep without Diaz. Get Talley and McCray healthy(?) Get out of town, and play a team we're actually more talented than. Now , they will play much better at home, so we're going to have to really play well. I'm hoping the kids get some props from somewhere and know they can win this thing. If everyone plays to their ability, Ubel could be the wildcard in this one. WIN Illinois home - Missed a chance at a win the first time. It'll be tough without Diaz on Leonard...I'm afraid the Illini can't play any worse than did the first time and will probably play better. LOSE Purdue away - Not uber talented, but another savvy group with a senior point (Jackson) and All-B1G Hummel leading scorer. Averaging 70/gm, I don't think we can slow them down enough. LOSE Mich State away - Doc keeps his job if we win. Iowa home - We can do this, but we'll have to play as good as the first time.....which was our best shooting and rebounding game of the year. WIN Minnesota away - If we can catch them looking past us to the conf tournament, they are a team that is capable of losing on any given night. They are the most talented, but unmotivated group in the conference. WIN. I'm pulling for them to salvage something for themselves to remember.

Posted by: BUCK4NU on February 10, 2012 3:23PM CST old school I've watch Penn State and agree we can win that game. You can stop that point gaurd they have by just forcing him left. Every time he drove he finished to the right when we first played them. Even if we were giving him a better opening to his left. I watched Wisonsin - Penn St game and they figured it out early and he really struggled. We can beat Iowa. They are not a very good team. They are the worst Defesive team in the BIG. Not sure we can win any of the other games unless as you say they totally forget they are playing basketball.

Posted by: Robka on February 10, 2012 3:26PM CST man this topic is old. We will win more game if we get a coach with a hot wife as a recruiting tool. Just ask Eric P.;) In the mean time did anyone catch the news that Patriots TE Gronk had surgery? During the Super Bowl post game he said he was 100% and reports that he needed surgery were false. So now we know two things about Gronk; 1) He is a bad LIAR 2) He is even a worse dancer;) GO BIG INTEGRITY!!!

Posted by: BO-urNe sUpremacy on February 10, 2012 3:30PM CST tex, let's say it was your decision to make today on Doc, yay or day? No waffling...

Posted by: Nebraskan in VA on February 10, 2012 3:31PM CST Have we beat this horse to death yet?

Posted by: BO-urNe sUpremacy on February 10, 2012 3:34PM CST robka, the "break" dancing did him in...

Posted by: BO-urNe sUpremacy on February 10, 2012 3:35PM CST VA, dead and buried, 6 ft under...

Posted by: Old School on February 10, 2012 3:35PM CST Just talkin' a little hoops. If you got nothing to say, why dump on people that do?

Posted by: Robka on February 10, 2012 3:43PM CST Bo-urNe I think your right;) GO BIG BREAKIN 2 ELECTRIC BOOG A LOO!!!

Posted by: PT Husker on February 10, 2012 3:44PM CST School, a while back you asked me what i thought about Bo. Wasn't sure which Bo you were talking about so I did not answer.

Posted by: Old School on February 10, 2012 3:54PM CST PT - Sorry. Bo Spencer. You said you were disappointed in him. Wondered why.

Posted by: BO-urNe sUpremacy on February 10, 2012 3:54PM CST robka, break dancin'-super bowl loss--they go together.....

Posted by: Robka on February 10, 2012 3:59PM CST Bo- Man I miss the 80's. Bright colors, high waisted jeans and you didn't have to answer a phone unless you were at home. GO BIG GOOD OL DAYS!!!

Posted by: BUCK4NU on February 10, 2012 4:10PM CST Old School, where do you sit at the Bob?

Posted by: Old School on February 10, 2012 4:15PM CST C2, but the fortunately the pickins' below have been good lately :) I'm thinking about upgrading in the arena.

Posted by: BUCK4NU on February 10, 2012 4:22PM CST WHen I get the Family tickets we are in C13 straight accross from the bench.

Posted by: Old School on February 10, 2012 4:32PM CST Who else do we have for 2012 recruits besides Shavon Shields? We really want to keep this kid. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7GetkXBElt4

Posted by: Wrestler on February 10, 2012 4:37PM CST "bear markets don't last forever". Casual, a good observation for most? But my Cubs would be a exception, to your astute observation? Being a Cubs fan, epitomizes "Long Suffering" quite well? When both Big Reds in FB for me disappoint, I just think of the Cubs and quickly realize how disappointment is a relative term? So over time the sport of FB for me, following select teams in D1 has been most gratifying? And the inversion to that is the Cubs, but never the relinquishment for my support? Maybe analogous to a Husker fan, following both FB and Pumpkinwarts, such a dichotomy for feelings ascertained? Half past 6 am Sat and true to form, no quota? As last evening was Fri. night workouts with FU Ga Ga and we did squats? Later! Go Pot Bellied Pigs! GBR! Zhou Da Hong!

Posted by: GBR in Texas on February 10, 2012 4:59PM CST Posted by: BO-urNe sUpremacy on February 10, 2012 3:30PM CST tex, let's say it was your decision to make today on Doc, yay or day? No waffling... Well BOurNe...nope, not gonna do it. I just can't comment on that, it's against my nature.

Posted by: PlyNeb on February 10, 2012 5:07PM CST Old School According to Rivals, the following players have also signed an LOI: Fahro Alihodzic (6'9"-PF) Keith Coleman (6'9"-PF) Benny Parker (5'8"-PG) Jerran Young (6'5"-SG) Don't know if Fahro is still coming, as he was kicked off the team he was playing on and they cancelled the rest of their season (numerous players kicked off team for unspecified reasons).

Posted by: Old School on February 10, 2012 5:22PM CST Thanks PlyNeb. I guess Fahro was one class short of graduating, so he should be OK academically, but we'll see if it falls through.

Posted by: Old School on February 10, 2012 6:01PM CST Well, from the videos I could find on these guys, nothing really jumps out at me on this class except Shields. Pretty thin, and unless the two big guys really developed in the last year, no immediate help there. Rats.

Posted by: casualobserver on February 10, 2012 6:24PM CST Wrestler: Another good Avatar. Tell "K" she really makes that dress look good !!

Posted by: PT Husker on February 10, 2012 6:25PM CST School, Yes I have been disappointed in Bo Spencer. Maybe I expected to much due to the hype. Both pre season and by the commentators. He seems to dissapear at key times. He sounded like the go to guy we needed but he has not been consistant in that role. Perhaps that is because of defense by the other teams. Not smart enough to know that for sure. Streaky at best. At least that is what I see.

Posted by: Old School on February 11, 2012 4:46AM CST PT, yeah he's maybe the basketball equivalent of Martinez....quick cut and explodes. Super fast, but maybe a little too eager at times....just the thoroughbred in him....super competitive. I agree he tends to disappear too, and I think he doesn't move as well without the ball in his hands. Loves to have the ball in his hands. 100% confident he can take his guy and often feels he needs to or he won't get the ball back in time. I coached a kid like that in youth league, and sometimes they just never get it....that if you move with a purpose without the ball it's better than with it. But the ball is like a power bar, and their energy drops without it. I've noticed that when Talley and McCray are healthy and able to drive and dish he does much better....if Talley gives it up....it tends to go in but not come out with him. Bo isn't the smoothest player, but for being here one year, he pretty much became "the guy". If you were the one that said you've been waiting for Richardson to be the guy, and Doc just hasn't helped him get there, I get that. For whatever reason, some guys just don't have "it" when all the evidence says they should. I just keep praying for Brandon's confidence because I think he's maybe too accommodating or worried about trying to get everyone involved. I think good point guards will tend to overcompensate that way, and you have to force them to be a little selfish. I think the guys Taylor at Wisconsin, or Appling at Mich St are scoring point guards, while he's more similar to Kraft at OSU but doesn't have the Luxury of their "horses".

Posted by: Old School on February 11, 2012 4:55AM CST My Mantra for Richardson is 12 PPG. I think he's capable of consistently scoring about 12 (one more drive and one more 3 a game which would be about 4-5 more shots a game), and it would make a world of difference.

Posted by: IM_Hip_Hop on February 11, 2012 9:01AM CST 6 games left in the Doc Sadler era, thankfully. Osborne needs to hire us a coach who can actually recruit Division I basketball talent.

Posted by: Old School on February 11, 2012 10:51AM CST Here we go again.

Posted by: Old School on February 11, 2012 11:28AM CST If Doc would leave, and I'm not conceding that point yet, someone mentioned Brad Stevens earlier. Of course I immediately dismissed that because Collier is his AD. But, to allow myself to dream, he would be a young coach I would consider dropping a bankroll on. Coaches in B1G territory, would have immediate credibility recruiting this conference, maybe would consider a down program in the B1G with all the bells and whistles at his disposal to build his own way. Lincoln is not Indianapolis, but not too much of a stretch for a young family man. In my vision, he'd be just like Scott Drew at Baylor. But there's still Collier sitting in his office doorway.....man, we can't catch a break from anywhere.

Posted by: Old School on February 11, 2012 11:41AM CST Well, I'm watching Butler right now, and they have a young team with a good recruiting class coming in, so the future looks bright for Coach Stevens right where he's at. Why move from a program where your "it" on campus to Lincoln, where the average basketball IQ only understands dunks and wins?

Posted by: Old School on February 11, 2012 12:15PM CST No Penn St game thread since the Lincoln Journal folks have given up on the season, so this will have to do.

Posted by: Old School on February 11, 2012 12:16PM CST Huskers up 6-3 and hustling for loose balls....good to see. McCray shooting well early always a good sign for him.

Posted by: Old School on February 11, 2012 12:18PM CST PSU 12-11, but we're shooting well. Spencer hits a three.

Posted by: Old School on February 11, 2012 12:19PM CST Why are they playing at noon if it's not on TV? Someone explain the B1G network to me.

Posted by: Old School on February 11, 2012 12:21PM CST Talley missed 2 open threes...badly. OK, he needs to dial it back because it's not his day today. Or, he'll shoot us out of the game.

Posted by: Old School on February 11, 2012 12:24PM CST Ubel is on the bench with 2 fouls, Nieman is in. That is not what we needed. 16-11 PSU

Posted by: Old School on February 11, 2012 12:26PM CST Started off OK, but 1-7 on 3s now.

Posted by: Old School on February 11, 2012 12:28PM CST Looks like we're gonna shoot outside. We should bring Ubel out too then and cut to the middle. 18-17 PSU Talley with two 3s in a row.

Posted by: Old School on February 11, 2012 12:30PM CST 6:00 left. PSU 25-17 getting points in the paint, Ubel 2 fouls has to lay back.

Posted by: Old School on February 11, 2012 12:35PM CST PSU up 11, we've got to be careful here.

Posted by: Old School on February 11, 2012 12:37PM CST Huskers switch to zone, good move. PSU shoots badly outside. Walker scores 4 cuts it to 7. Got to keep track of Frazier on D.

Posted by: Old School on February 11, 2012 12:43PM CST Rivers in, gets beat on D and fouls. Walker turnover against the press....3 pointer PSU.....ouch. PSU back up 33-21. Richardson first points 2 free throws. 33-23

Posted by: Old School on February 11, 2012 12:53PM CST PSU 36-26 at half. Sounds like similar breakdowns as before....not having Diaz in the middle is killing us. I don't know if we scored in the paint at all.

Posted by: wacky4huskers on February 11, 2012 11:33PM CST I like Doc...........but............!