The Future (Version 3.14.09)

Well, gang. It's been over a year since my last post on this blog. But, things have slowed down a bit and I think it's a decent time for me to begin again.

So, I have decided to throw together a little Saturday morning reading for you. With Kansas State's NCAA Tournament hopes all but squandered with a loss to Texas in the Big XII Tournament, Wildcat fans are now shifting their focus slightly to the NIT, but primarily to the 2009-2010 Big XII Season.

Now, I'm not in the media, and I don't get to vote in Preseason Conference polls, so consider this my ballot (way too early) for the shakedown on the 2009-2010 Big XII Conference basketball season.

Underclassmen Leaving

It's easy to shake down a roster and see who is graduating and who isn't, but the really tricky part may be determining which underclassmen will declar early for the NBA Draft. The following is a list of players who I think have an above average shot of declaring early. There may be no greater impact of next year's season than the players on this list:

Blake Griffin (Oklahoma) - The consensus #1 Pick in the Draft. His days in Norman are numbered.

Cole Aldrich (Kansas) - Cole is being projected by many as a Lottery Pick in the year's Draft. That would be an opportunity too great to pass up.

Sherron Collins (Kansas) - People around the Kansas program are saying that Sherron has one eye on the NBA already. I personally don't think he's a good enough player, but then again, that's not my decision to make.

Willie Warren (Oklahoma) - He has apparently caused some turmoil within the Oklahoma program, and Warren is a player that most believed was a one-and-done when he arrived in Norman.

Underclassmen Staying

Craig Brackins (Iowa State) - Probably the best player in the Conference that nobody talks about. In fact, I almost forgot him when I was putting together this list. Brackins is essentially a poor man's Kevin Durant. But look for him to return and team with a couple solid recruits to try and make Iowa State relevant again.

Damion James (Texas) - James could be tempted at the possibility of being a First Round pick in this year's Draft, but ultimately he makes the smart decision and returns to lead Texas for his Senior season.

Denis Clemente (Kansas State) - This may seem crazy, and it probably is. But Clemente is a 4th-year Junior who would likely be a candidate to play International ball. However, that likely isn't an option that Clemente would consider at this point.

Dexter Pittman (Texas) - Perhaps the most improved player in the Conference this year. Pittman has the type of frame that will really catch the eye of an NBA scout. But Pittman is still a bit of a project and will return to Texas for his Senior year to solidify his spot as the Conference's best big man.

James Anderson (Oklahoma State) - A real breakout player in 2008-09. Anderson solidified himself as one of the elite players in this Conference, and in my opinion he was deserving of a spot on the Big XII First Team. He comes back for his Junior year with an even greater hunger and may be the top player in the Conference next year.

The All-Newcomer Team

Now that we have discussed who may be going and staying, it's time to take a look at the very best players who will be entering the Big XII next season.

All-Newcomer First Team

Avery Bradley (Texas) - Texas will be looking for help with the loss of A.J. Abrams. Bradley has drawn comparisons to former Wake Forest guard Chris Paul and will provide instant offense for the Longhorns.

Chris Colvin (Iowa State) - He is one of my sleepers for next year. This kid is an excellent point guard, and with teams focusing on Craig Brackins, Colvin will be able to shine.

Christian Standhardinger (Nebraska) - Who? Standhardinger is a very long wing from Germany who can play some in the post. He played on Germany's Junior National team and put up some huge numbers. Doc Sadler will be looking for some scoring with some key losses to graduation.

Curtis Kelly (Kansas State) - The former Five Star recruit for UConn finds that a change of scenery really does him well in Manhattan. He will provide the Wildcats with a post presence that they sorely need.

Keith Gallon (Oklahoma) - The Sooners will have a couple of options for trying to replace the production of Blake Griffin, and Gallon is one of the most polished big men in the country on the offensive end.

All-Newcomer Second Team

Cory Jefferson (Baylor)
Raymond Penn (Oklahoma State)
Jai Lucas (Texas)
Thomas Robinson (Kansas)
Wally Judge (Kansas State)

The All-Conference Team

Well, this one should be fairly simple. Or at least the first team. It may look a little familiar to you:

All-Conference First Team

Craig Brackins (JR) - Iowa State - Brackins is an elite scorer, and the type of player who can single handedly put an entire team on his back and will them to victory. Brackins will put up monster numbers again next year.

Damion James (SR) - Texas - Texas is poised for a huge run next year, and James will be the focal point of that run.

Denis Clemente (SR) - Kansas State - Clemente has proven that he is capable of scoring in bunches this year. He will remain the quickest player in the league, if not the country, and some key post additions will keep opposing defenses from being able to extend their defenses so far.

Dexter Pittman (SR) - Texas - Pittman is capable of being a dominant big man. He has shown flashes, though some inconsistency. One more year of offseason conditioning should allow Pittman to fully develop into the force that he can be.

James Anderson (JR) - Oklahoma State - It was a shame that Anderson wasn't selected to the First Team this year. But next year he should really be the primary focus of the Oklahoma State offense.

All-Conference Second Team

Juan Patillo (SR) - Oklahoma
Cory Higgins (JR) - Colorado
Lacedarius Dunn (JR) - Baylor
Marshall Moses (JR) - Oklahoma State
Tyshawn Taylor (SO) - Kansas

All-Conference Third Team

Josh Roberson (JR) - Texas Tech
Donald Sloan (SR) - Texas A&M
Jacob Pullen (JR) - Kansas State
J.T. Tiller (SR) - Missouri
Tony Crocker (JR) - Oklahoma

Honorable Mention

Avery Bradley (Texas), Bryan Davis (Texas A&M), Curtis Kelly (Kansas State), John Roberson (Texas Tech), Marcus Denmon (Missouri), Mario Little (Kansas), Tweety Carter (Baylor)

Preseason Team Rankings

Alright, this is the part that everyone wants to know. Remember, I am using all of my predictions above as a basis for these rankings. And, of course, all of that is subject to change. A guy that I have pegged for the NBA deciding to come back to school (or vice versa) would throw a giant wrench in the spokes. But don't worry, I will revisit this in a few months when all the dust has settled:

1. Texas - If you haven't gathered by now that I'm a big fan of the team Texas will put on the floor next year, then you haven't been paying very close attention. In a Conference that will really lack an abundance of talented big men, Dexter Pittman and Clint Chapman should really be able to pose matchup problems for opposing teams. Damion James and Gary Johnson make up probably the most talented wing combo in the Conference, and incoming freshman Avery Bradley is an elite scoring guard who can also distribute who should team with Florida transfer Jai Lucas to give Texas a formidible guard combo. As with most years, Texas will be as good as Texas wants to be.

2. Kansas - Until they prove otherwise, Kansas is always deserving of being one of the top two teams in the Conference. They won the regular season crown this year despite losing all five starters off of last years National Championship Team. Replacing Sherron Collins and Cole Aldrich will be difficult, but I expect Tyshwan Taylor to step up and be the man at Kansas. Ther are a host of big men who can platoon and replace the production lost from Aldrich. And with the amount of effort Bill Self gets from his teams, Kansas will have plenty of talent to again compete for a Conference Championship.

3. Oklahoma State - This one may be a bit of a suprise. I really like Travis Ford as a coach, and what he has been able to do with this year's version of the Cowboys has been phenomenal. Considering he completely changed the style of play from the Sutton/Sutton Era, Fordhas proven to me he is a capable coach in the Conference. The Cowboys lose only Byron Eaton and Terrel Harris, and will add a very nice recruiting class to the Conference's best all-around player in James Anderson.

4. Kansas State - The Wildcats return what is probably the most dynamic backcourt combination in the Conference with Denis Clemente and Jacob Pullen both coming back. UConn transfer Curtis Kelly and McDonald's All-American Wally Judge will give the Wildcats what they hope will be the post presence that was missing from this years team. We know Frank Martin is a master motivator and I would expect that with a more talented team than this past season, the Wildcats will really be able to make some noise next season.

5. Oklahoma - The Sooners will likely lose their top two scorers in Blake Griffin and Willie Warren, but do return a very nice supporting cast of players and add to it the second best recruiting class in the Conference. Of course, this is assuming Jeff Capel stays put in Norman and doesn't bolt back to the East Coast. But in a guard oriented league, Oklahoma will still have plenty of firepower to give several teams a run for their money.

6. Texas A&M - For starters, I'm not sold on Mark Turgeon as a competent coach in this Conference. That said, despite losing thei best player Josh Carter, the Aggies still return plenty complimentary players. Junior Elonu and Bryan Davis should also give them matchup edges against some of the smaller teams in the Conference.

7. Missouri - In year three, Mike Anderson finally got his Tiger ball club to turn a corner. Unfortunately for Missouri fans, the main elements of that turn-around will be graduating. While Missouri will return enough solid players to remain relevant, they don't have the talent waiting in the wings to be expected to compete at the level they did this year.

8. Baylor - Scott Drew's club is in the midst of one of the greatest runs in Big XII Conference Tournament history. But, like Missouri, many of the key contributors to that run will be leaving. Tweety Carter and Lacedarius Dunn are streaky enough to allow the Bears to beat any team in the Conference. However, they are also streaky enough to allow them to lose to any team in the Conference. They do not bring the same level of consistency defensively as Missouri, which is why Missouri gets the 7th spot with Baylor landing here.

9. Iowa State - Craig Brackins is the best scorer in the Conference. He can single-handedly keep the Cyclones in many games. They add some nice pieces to the puzzle through the recruiting process, and although the Hilton Coliseum Magic isn't what it used to be, there still isn't a team in the Conference that goes to Ames without a little doubt in the back of their minds.

10. Texas Tech - The talent is there for the Red Raiders to be a force in this Conference. Unfortunately Pat Knight is still feeling his way around in the darkness cast by the shadow of his father. But Tech returns three players who are capable of puttin gup huge scoring numbers on a given night, and they will beat some of the teams at the top of the Conference next year.

11. Nebraska - Doc Sadler is a very good coach. Nebraska loses their top player in Ade Dagunduro, and while they will still play hard and compete in every game, they will lack the scoring ability to be much of a threat to most teams.

12. Colorado - Same song, different verse for the Buffaloes. Cory Higgins is a very good player who is utilized incorrectly in Coach Jeff Bzdelik's offense. The Buffaloes will again struggle to put 5 competent players on the court, and the Coors Event Center is the least threatening environment in the entrie Big XII.

The Future (Part I)

An interesting little segment here. We're right in the heart of the 2008 Big XII basketball championship race. But, as most know, I almost always keep one eye on the future.

So, I've decided to do a little preview of what these teams may look like next season. In Part I I'll take a look at that upper half of the Conference. I'll put it this way, there are going to be a lot of new faces in the Conference next season.

Kansas

Graduating Seniors: Russell Robinson (7 ppg, 3 rpg, 4 apg); Rodrick Stewart (3 ppg, 3 rpg); Sasha Kaun (8 ppg, 5 rpg, 1.3 bpg); Darnell Jackson (12 ppg, 7 rpg); Jeremy Case

Other Potential Departures: Brandon Rush (12 ppg, 5 rpg); Darrell Arthur (14 ppg, 6 rpg)

Key Returners: Mario Chalmers (12 ppg, 5 apg)

Incoming Recruits:
Mario Little (6'5, SG)
Travis Releford (6'5, SG)
Marcus Morris (6'8, PF)
Markieff Morris (6'9, PF)
Quintrell Thomas (6'8, PF)

Overview: The Jayhawks are losing a lot of senior leadership, particularly along the frontline. If Rush and Arthur decide to go pro as well, which is very possible, KU will have quite a fight to stay atop the Big XII Conference standings next year.

Texas

Graduating Seniors: J.D. Lewis (2 ppg); Connor Atchley (11 ppg, 5 rpg)

Other Potential Departures: D.J. Augustin (19 ppg, 6 apg)

Key Returners: A.J. Abrams (18 ppg); Damion James (13 ppg, 11 rpg)

Incoming Recruits:
J'Covan Brown (6'2, SG)

Overview: It is possible, but highly unlikely that one or two of the Longhorns decide to test the NBA waters. D.J. Augustin may be the one with the best chance, but the thinking is that he takes the T.J. Ford route and spends a couple years in Austin to make sure he's ready for the next level. If Augustin, James, and Abrams all return next season, I believe Texas will be the odds on favorite to win the Big XII next season.

Kansas State

Graduating Seniors: Blake Young (6 ppg, 3 apg); Clent Stewart (8 ppg, 3 apg)

Other Potential Departures: Michael Beasley (26 ppg, 13 rpg); Bill Walker (16 ppg, 7 rpg)

Key Returners: David Hoskins (15 ppg, 6 rpg - 2006); Jacob Pullen (10 ppg, 4 apg)

Incoming Recruits:
Jamar Samuels (6'7, SF)
Denis Clemente (6'0, PG) - University of Miami Transfer

Overview: There are a lot of question marks surrounding who will even be on the 2008-2009 version of the Kansas State Wildcats. It is possible, though unlikely, that Michael Beasley and/or Bill Walker could return for a sophomore campaign. If that were to happen, then put Kansas State right up there with Texas atop the Conference and among the early leaders for the National Championship. The more likely scenario, however, has Beasley and Walker leaving, but David Hoskins returning to fill the void as a veteran leader and major scoring presence in the post.

If that happens, the Wildcats will have plenty of backcourt firepower, and the much needed experience to still compete for the Conference title and an NCAA Tournament berth.

Texas A&M

Graduating Seniors: Dominique Kirk (8 ppg, 4 apg); Joseph Jones (11 ppg, 5 rpg)

Other Potential Departures: DeAndre Jordan (9 ppg, 6 rpg)

Key Returners: Bryan Davis (9 ppg, 5 rpg); Josh Carter (13 ppg, 4 rpg)

Incoming Recruits:
Dashan Harris (6'0, PG)
David Loubeau (6'9, PF)

Overview: Jordan is likely gone, and he combined with Joseph Jones will leave a huge void to fill along the Aggie frontline. There will still be enough talent returning to compete with the upper echelon of the Conference, but head coach Mark Turgeon is a douchebag and I'm not sure that he has what it takes to consistently win in this Conference.

Baylor

Graduating Seniors: Aaron Bruce (10 ppg); Mamadou Diene (4 ppg, 4 rpg, 2 bpg); Mark Shephard (2 ppg, 2 rpg)

Other Potential Departures: None

Key Returners: Curtis Jerrells (15 ppg, 4 apg); Henry Dugat (12 ppg, 4 rpg); Kevin Rogers (12 ppg, 8 rpg)

Incoming Recruits:
Anthony Jones (6'8, SF)
Artem Valov (6'9, PF)

Overview: In Jerrells, Dugat, Rogers, and Tweety Carter, the Bears will bring back one of the most talented corps of players in the Conference. Scott Drew has stocked the cupboard in Waco, and if this year is the coming out party for the Bears then next season could be the year when they legitimize their placement as one of the Conference's upper tier teams.

Oklahoma

Graduating Seniors: David Godbold (8 ppg); Longar Longar (13 ppg, 7 rpg)

Other Potential Departures: Blake Griffin (15 ppg, 9 rpg)

Key Returners: Tony Crocker (11 ppg, 5 rpg); Austin Johnson (9 ppg, 3 apg)

Incoming Recruits:
Willie Warren (6'3, PG)
Ray Willis (6'5, SG)
Kyle Cannon (6'8, PF)
Orlando Allen (6'10, C)
T.J. Mitchell (5'10, PG)

Overview: There's no guarantee that Blake Griffin will try and enter the NBA Draft after this season. If he returns, Oklahoma could be another very dangerous team next year with the return of Keith Clark from a season-ending injury. Willie Warren will be the elite freshman in the Big XII next season, and he will give the Sooners a virtually unstoppable scoring threat from the guard position. If combined with Blake Griffin, that would be a high-low duo that could propel the Sooners into the top four of the Conference.

Buhl's Picks to Click (Version 2.9)

Alrighty, well after Wednesday, we're finally ahead of the game with a 7-6 record Against the Spread. Today's slate features a nice collection of games, including a national television game for the Wildcats.

Texas A&M @ Missouri (12:45 Central)
Line: Texas A&M -1.5

Listen, I hate Mark Turgeon as much as the next guy. Probably even moreso. And I would love nothing more than to see him fall flat on his face in this road game. That said, this line makes zero sense to me.

Missouri is a team in flux. Stefhon Hannah yesterday became the second Tiger arrested in an incident two weeks ago at a Columbia nightclub. While the Tigers players showed up well in a victory against Kansas State, Mike Anderson Jr. and J.T. Tiller just aren't going to carry the Tigers very far. The Aggies have a much bigger, deeper, talented, and more physical team and I think they take a bite out of the falling Tigers

Prediction: Texas A&M by 10
Who To Take: Texas A&M -1.5

Texas @ Iowa State (2:30 Central)
Line: Texas -5.5

See above. The Longhorns have had some struggles in Conference play, with a couple ugly losses. And Iowa State will likely still be without a healthy Wesley Johnson.

While Hilton Coliseum is always a tough place to play, the Longhorns have some veterans to lead them against a Cyclone team that hasn't shown an ability to play with anybody since getting hammered by Kansas two weeks ago.

Prediction: Texas by 16
Who To Take: Texas -5.5

Oklahoma @ Colorado (3:00 Central)
Line: Oklahoma -4

This is an interesting game to watch play out. It's a matchup that I think the Buffaloes could easily win, especially with Longar Longar likely done for awhile for the Sooners. But, as Colorado coach Jeff Bzdelik himself said, this team doesn't have enough depth to compete for the duration of the Conference schedule.

Colorado is really a two man guard oriented team, and the bruising low post game of the Sooners should be enough to cover on the road against a Colorado team that will be lucky to win another game this year.

Prediction: Oklahoma by 8
Who To Take: Oklahoma -4

Texas Tech @ Nebraska (3:00 Central)
Line: Nebraska -5

Nebraska put up a good fight against the Wildcats on Wednesday before eventually losing by 15. If Aleks Maric would have been able to stay out of the foul trouble caused by guarding Michael Beasley, that game could have been much closer.

The Red Raiders don't possess near the offensive firepower, particularly inside, that K-State did. After playing a very competitive game in Waco on Wednesday night, Pat Knight looks for his first win as the Texas Tech head coach. This should be a very competitive game.

Prediction: Nebraska by 1
Who To Take: Texas Tech +5

Oklahoma State @ Kansas State (5:00 Central)
Line: Kansas State -11.5

This is a lot of points to give against a team with the offensive firepower of the Cowboys. But, it appears to me that this team has given up on Coach Sean Sutton, and additionally hasn't won a road game in the Big XII yet this year.

Look for a fired up, emotional, and motivated Wildcat team to show up at Bramlage after attending the funeral of Vanessa Stewart this morning. Oklahoma State has the talent to keep up with the Wildcats, but in the end I think the atmosphere and the intangibles give K-State a huge advantage.

Prediction: Kansas State by 17
Who To Take: Kansas State -11.5

Baylor @ Kansas (7:00 Central)
Line: Kansas -16.5

The Bears are on of the few teams in the Conference with the guard play to keep up with Kansas. Additionally, they have big man Kevin Rogers who can pose matchup problems, even for a team with interior depth like Kansas.

I don't expect Baylor to win this game. In fact, the chances of that happening are very slim. But, win or lose this year the Bears haven't played a Conference game with a point spread of more than 8. That leads me to believe that, even in Allen Fieldhouse, this game will end up closer than predicted.

Prediction: Kansas by 11
Who To Take: Baylor +16.5

Buhl's Picks to Click (Version 2.6)

Well, I took the weekend off due to some things I had to attend to, but am climbing my way back up the charts and am now 4-5 Against the Spread. I know, I know, still not enough to win any money, but I feel good about the way things are shaping up for tonight's games as well as this weekend.

Texas @ Oklahoma (6:00 Central)
Line: Oklahoma -1.5

Seems to me that oddsmakers have fallen off the Longhorn bandwagon a bit lately with their recent struggles on the road (1-2 in Conference road games). However, this is still a very talented, if not a little young, basketball team who has the ability to beat anyone in any arena. Going further, the Sooners have really not taken advantage of what weak home court advantage they have at the Lloyd Noble Center, with all three of their Conference home games being within 3 points or less.

To the game, Blake Griffin is a really good player for the Sooners, but to this point in the season has not shown the ability to provide enough offensive spark to carry his team by himself against tough opponents. Texases guard play is phenomenal, and they also have some very talented and athletic big men to go along with solid depth. If Oklahoma's guards don't show up to play, the Longhorns could easily win this game, and may run away with it.

Prediction: Texas by 5
Who To Take: Texas +1.5

Texas Tech @ Baylor (7:00 Central)
Line: Baylor -8.5

Baylor has fallen off a bit recently, losing consecutive games to Oklahoma and Texas after their thrilling 5OT victory over Texas A&M. Baylor has a super talented backcourt that goes as much as five players deep. Everybody knows the Texas Tech story, just two days removed from the resignation of head coach Bob Knight. His son, Pat, will look to lead the Raiders into Waco in hopes of knocking off the Bears.

Trends would tell me that -8.5 is way too high of a spread for the Bears, considering their largest Conference win has been by 8 points. But, in this particular case, I will make an exception, as I expect the Red Raiders to come out flat and disinterested. However, don't be surprised if the Raiders come out with a renewed sense of energy to rise up and win this game either. I look for either a Texas Tech win, or a Baylor blowout. I think the higher likelihood is the Baylor blowout.

Prediction: Baylor by 15
Who To Take: Baylor -8.5

Colorado @ Oklahoma State (7:00 Central)
Line: Oklahoma State -9.5

I'm not really sure where this line is coming from. Is Colorado bad? Sure, but Oklahoma State isn't much better with just 1 Conference win themselves. A few ago or maybe a little more I was still very high on the Cowboys, at least as a middle of the pack team in the Big XII. But it now appears to me that the Cowboy players and fans have lost what little enthusiasm they may have had to play for (or watch) Coach Sean Sutton.

Colorado has guards who can really fill up the scoreboard on a good night, even on the road as they proven in Austin a few weeks ago. That said, Oklahoma State is clearly the more talented team. But I still question their drive at this point which makes it almost impossible for me to think they are capable of beating anyone by 10 points.

Prediction: Oklahoma State by 4
Who To Take: Colorado +9.5

Nebraska @ Kansas State (7:00 Central)
Line: Kansas State -8

The Wildcats struggled this past weekend at Missouri, jumping out to a big lead and faltering late to lose by 3. The team showed minimal interest in being in Columbia, much less playing basketball. That said, tonight the Wildcats have something to play for with the recent passing of Senior point guard Clent Stewart's mother, Vanessa.

In the latter of the two games last year, Nebraska's Alex Maric went for 41 points against the Wildcats. No such luck this time around, I'm afraid. The Wildcats have a couple guys named Michael Beasley and Bill Walker who are likely to steal the spotlight, as Maric is really the only person Nebraska has capable of guarding either with any effectiveness, and I predict he gets into early foul trouble trying to do so.

The Wildcats are a cozy 9-1 in the comfort of Bramlage Coliseum with their lone loss coming at the hands of the Oregon Ducks in overtime back in November. The Wildcats have beaten two then-Top 10 teams in Bramlage already during Conference play (#10 A&M, #2 KU) and I don't see much reason why Nebraska will fare any better. They'd better hope for another uninspired performance from the Wildcats, and even then it likely won't be enough for the Huskers to pull of the upset.

Prediction: Kansas State by 20
Who To Take: Kansas State -8

PANNNNNNNNN-DA-MONIUM!!!!!!!!!!!!

A collection of pictures and quotes from last night's game in Manhattan. History was made as the Cats snapped a home losing streak to the Jayhawks dating back to 1983.

Michael Beasley takes on the World's ugliest man

Bill Walker throws it down

From a closer angle
Russel Robinson an alien? I must admit, the similarities are eery.

Coach Martin has time to crack a wry smile

Mario Chalmers does his best Britney Spears impersonation

Willie doing a little crowd surfing on the court

The flood of fans immediately afterward

The maestro

"The Streak" has finally been laid to rest

They Said It...

“From the tip, we showed we weren’t going to back down and let them do what they wanted to do.” - Bill Walker

''People act like there's just one team in Kansas and we had a chance to show there isn't. It was a big win. I'm tired. I can't think right now.'' - Bill Walker

"For us to be able to provide relief from that Streak to our people at Kansas State, I'm proud of our guys for doing that. For me, I'm just happy we were able to beat these guys." - Frank Martin

“I knew my team was capable of beating anybody. We showed that tonight.” - Michael Beasley

"After 25 years, I would have rushed the court too." - Jacob Pullen

“K-State was just a better team than we were tonight. You could say offensively or defensively. Pullen was terrific, their defense was good but we still shot an excellent percentage. We got fed up though. It was one of those atmospheres where that could easily occur. I don’t know if you can pinpoint one thing other than, of the 50-50 balls they got 70 to 80 percent of them. They scored an awful lot off of loose balls and that is something we are usually pretty good at but we weren’t tonight.” - Bill Self

"You’ve got to give K-State credit. Saying that we were bad tonight would take away from how well they performed. I don’t think we were good but I think they were a big reason why.” - Bill Self

"Ironically, this was the type of win Kansas State hired Bob Huggins to get, but it was Frank Martin, his former assistant, who delivered the goods. In a fitting tribute to their former coach, the Wildcats looked like a vintage Huggins team Wednesday: relentless, physical, determined and ultimately quite successful. " - Andy Glockner (ESPN.com)

"This game will send a message throughout the land." - Dave Armstrong

Buhl's Picks To Click (Version 1.30)

First off, my apologies to anyone who used my picks as a reference for any type of action on Saturday. If you did, then you, like myself, lost a bit of money. Overall in the Big XII Conference, I went 2-4 against the spread and 4-2 straight up. Not very good, but I'm looking for a major improvement tonight.

So, let's rundown the night's Big XII Conference action, saving the best for last, of course:

Nebraska @ Missouri (7:00 Central)
Line: Missouri -4.5

If you're looking at this from the outside, it appears as a classic trap game. Common sense would tell you that there is no way in hell that Missouri can win this game without 5 players, including 3 starters (Stefhon Hannah, Marshall Brown, Leo Lyons) and their top two bench players (Jason Horton, Darryl Butterfield). Yet still, someone in Vegas thinks Missouri will still win this game handily. Perhaps it has something to do with Nebraska's winless record on the road this year.

I disagree, however. I feel that without any semblance of depth in the frontcourt or the backcourt, Missouri will try and make this a half court basketball game. That falls straight into the hands of Nebraska and star big man Aleks Maric. If Demare Carroll can't stay out of foul trouble, it will be a very long night for the Tigers.

Prediction: Nebraska by 8
Who To Take: Nebraska +4.5

Texas @ Texas A&M (8:00 Central)
Line: Texas A&M -3.5

This is another that I have a very hard time going along with. Texas A&M is in a tailspin, aided only by a narrow victory at equally hapless Oklahoma State. Texas has had some struggles of late, but already has some big wins away from Austin including over a top 10 Tennessee team. They seem to have righted the ship a bit over a struggling Red Raider team coached by Bob Knight.

The crowd should be fired up for this one, and rivalry games are typically close. I expect this one to be no exception. But, just as I thought heading into A&M's matchup with Kansas State, they simply lack the playmaking ability and scoring power to win close games. Texas, on the other hand, has arguably the top guards in the Conference in D.J. Augustin and A.J. Abrams.

Prediction: Texas by 4
Who To Take: Texas +3.5

THE MAIN EVENT
Kansas @ Kansas State (7:00 Central)
Line: Kansas -7

Without question this will be the biggest game played between the two teams in some time. Arguably, since the 1988 Elite Eight game featuring Danny Manning for the Jayhawks and Mitch Richmond for the Wildcats. For the first time in recent memory, both teams are ranked. The Jayhawks #2, and the Wildcats #22.

Everybody knows the history. The Wildcats haven't beaten the Jayhawks in Manhattan since the early 80s, and never has K-State won a Sunflower Showdown in Fred Bramlage Coliseum. Then again, never before has K-State boasted the likely Conference Player of the Year, potential National Player of the Year, and almost certain first pick in a future NBA Draft. They do this year with Michael Beasley, the man who fans have come to love for his play on the court, as well as the way he has fully embraced being a Wildcat off it. Add to him another likely NBA Lottery pick in Bill Walker and a set of dynamic young players, and there has perhaps not been a more talented Wildcat team in the history of "The Streak."

Kansas State's guard play will be crucial. Kansas possesses extreme athleticism in the backcourt, and thrives off of turnovers and poor passes by their opponents. It will be vital for Clent Stewart, Jacob Pullen, and Blake Young to play well. They won't necessarily need to score in bunches, but they will need to handle the ball with care, make smart decisions, and make open jump shots when the defense collpases on Beasley and Walker. And when they do miss shots, it will be of the utmost importance that they get in solid defensive position to prevent the fast break opportunities on which the Jayhawks live.

Matchups are the theme of the game. No one player has the ability to guard Michael Beasley, and the same could even be said for Bill Walker. Likewise, the Wildcats will have serious matchup problems with Brandon Rush, who has come into his own as an outside shooter of late. The Jayhawks have a host of big men to throw at Beasley and Walker. While none possess the talent, the sheer numbers are such that it will be imperitive that Beasley and Walker avoid foul trouble. Perhaps so single key is as crucial as that.

As I stated above, rivalry games tend to be very close. I expect this one to be no different. If the Wildcats can avoid turnovers and foul trouble, they have more than enough firepower to pull off the upset. The key will be remaining focused and composed, and to avoid the emotion of the big game that would be natural in front of a raucous sold out crowd. There are still many unknowns with this young Wildcat team, but one thing we do know is that they will put up one hell of a fight.

Kansas wins games by "forcing" their opponent to beat themselves. If K-State can keep from beating themselves, they can win this game. But, the Jayhawks are arguably the nation's top team for a reason. And believe me, this Wildcat fan will be more than happy to step up here and eat some crow tomorrow!

Prediction: Kansas by 3
Who To Take: Kansas State +7

It's Finally KU Week

Both teams made it through weekend contests unscathed. Many "experts" predicted that one, or both, of these teams would be looking ahead to what promises to be the biggest Sunflower Showdown matchup in ages. The only two teams in the Big XII Conference that remain undefeated, the #2 ranked Jayhawks will travel to Manhattan in two short days to take on the #22 Wildcats.

Nothing like a little good, old fashioned hatred. It's getting close to game time, but it's never too late to start the banter. A little glimpse of the Jayhawks, in pictures...

Brandon Rush gets bailed out of jail by friend and former teammate

Michael Lee. Perhaps someone should instruct Mr. Rush on the

proper mechanics of driving.

A quality illustration from a quality K-Stater.

No real explanation needed here.

A typical KU fan sulking after Cartier Martin and the
Wildcats handed KU a loss in Allen Fieldhouse. Will
we see many more Jayhawk fans following suit this
after an evening trip to Manhattan? At least one man thinks so....

Short and sweet. If you've got some other good pictures, I'd love to get ahold of them. Will try to get some stuff up tomorrow as well.

Buhk's Picks To Click (Version 1.26)

With no disrespect to the Kansas City Royals and their pregame segment of the same name, I would like to introduce this new feature to the blog.

I'll try to make this a twice weekly feature (Wednesday and Saturday) profiling the days Big XII Conference basketball games and how I think they'll shake out. Keep in mind, that I in no way condone gambling or using any of the information in this segment to do so. OK, now that I've got that out of the way, let's take a quick tour of the Big XII:

Nebraska at Kansas (12:45 Central Time)
Line: Kansas -22

It should come as no surprise that the Jayhawks are heavily favored in this one. Afterall, a few short weeks ago the Jayhawks took thier show on the road and beat the Huskers 79-58 at the Devaney Center. I expect this game to be no different with one exception. Look for Bill Self to pull his starters earlier than usual if the Jayhawks have a large lead at the end of the game, looking forward to the big showdown on Wednesday night at rival Kansas State.

Prediction: Kansas by 18

Texas A&M at Oklahoma State (1:00 Central Time)
Line: Texas A&M -1

I've been a big proponent of Oklahoma State being highly overlooked in the Conference. Their 1-3 Conference record notwithstanding, this is still a Cowboy squad with lots of firepower, and one that historically plays well at Gallagher Iba Arena. Texas A&M has been beaten down, losing their last three contests, with two of them coming on the road. Included in that stretch was a 5OT home loss on Wednesday to the Baylor Bears, that took a mental and physical toll on Mark Turgeon's Aggies. With the team's record going downhill, and turmoil behind closed doors, expect this to be the last game this season that the Aggies play as a ranked team.

Predction: Oklahoma State by 6

Missouri at Colorado (2:00 Central Time)
Line: Missouri -7

A tale of two teams with a very Jekyll & Hide tendency to them. The Buffaloes are coming off a week in which they took #12 Texas to the wire in Austin and then got drilled at home by Kansas State. Missouri is coming off consecutive losses as well, at home to Kansas and then on the road in Lubbock. This is a tough game to call, trying to figure out which version of both teams will show up. I expect a close game, as Missouri's defense is pathetic and Colorado has some firepower at the guard spot.

Prediction: Missouri by 2

Oklahoma at Baylor (3:00 Central Time)
Line: Baylor -5.5

Baylor is a team on fire, jumping to a perfect 4-0 Conference record after a thrilling 5OT game in College Station on Wednesday night. In that game, Curtis Jerrells and Aaron Bruce willed the Bears to victory making shots and free throws to extend the game and eventually pull away in the final period. The Sooners finally picked up their first Conference win a week ago when they beat Texas Tech, but they're still battling the loss of Blake Griffin and inconsistent guard play. This could be an upset in the making, but I look for Baylor to pull this one out.

Prediction: Baylor by 10

Iowa State at Kansas State (5:00 Central Time)
Line: Kansas State -12.5

In what some have called the all too common trap game, the Cyclones come to Bramlage Coliseum to take on the upstart Wildcats. Experts claim the Wildcats will be looking ahead to their big home game in 5 days against archrival Kansas. Not so, say the Wildcat players. Still, the Cyclones offer a combination of size and athleticism that has led to a 2-2 Conference record. The Wildcats will look to play the type of defense that carried them to a huge second half against Texas A&M a week ago, and also limited Colorado to 30% shooting in Boulder on Wednesday. You have to believe that Kansas State may have one eye ahead to Kansas, despite what they may say. But still, look for the Wildcats to play well enough to win a big home game and stay atop the Conference standings.

Prediction: Kansas State by 8

Texas Tech at Texas (7:00 Central Time)
Line: Texas -11

Bob Knight's Red Raiders have put together some impressive victories in Lubbock, but have been abyssmal on the road. The Longhorns have struggled, even at home, but still find themselves 3-1 in Conference play. I am of the opinion that Texas Tech is a fraud. Not to say that Texas isn't, but a combination of a big time backcourt for Texas and a road game for Texas Tech make this a walk away for the Longhorns.

Prediction: Texas by 16

Wildcat Schedule Breakdown (Version 1.25)

As some of you know, this has become a fairly frequent feature of mine over on GoPowercat.com. Well, I decided it's time to add it to the blog.

As I've gone on record many times stating, with our wins thus far, and the way the Conference is shaping out, a 10-6 record should get the 2008 edition of the Wildcats into the Big Dance. That means finishing the remaining games with a record of no worse than 7-6, which at this point is highly likely. The Conference this year, I have been told, is at least a 5 and perhaps even a 6 team league as it relates to the NCAA Tournament.

Without further comment, I give you the remaining schedule breakdown as we stand right now:

Wildcats as Underdogs (+3 or more)
Kansas (1/30, RPI of 3); Predicted Line: Kansas -7.5
@ Kansas (3/1, RPI of 3); Predicted Line: Kansas -10.5

Pick 'Em (+/-3 or less)
@ Missouri (2/2, RPI of 93); Predicted Line: Kansas State -1.5
@ Texas Tech (2/13, RPI of 62); Predicted Line: Kansas State -2.5
@ Baylor (2/23, RPI of 22); Predicted Line: Baylor -2
Texas (2/25, RPI of 15); Predicted Line: Kansas State -.5

Wildcats as Favorites (-3 or more)
Iowa State (1/26, RPI of 100); Predicted Line: Kansas State -10.5
Nebraska (2/6, RPI of 167); Predicted Line: Kansas State -12
Oklahoma State (2/9, RPI of 125); Predicted Line: Kansas State -6.5
Missouri (2/16, RPI of 93); Predicted Line: Kansas State -9
@ Nebraska (2/20, RPI of 167); Predicted Line: Kansas State -5.5
Colorado (3/4, RPI of 142); Predicted Line: Kansas State -16.5
@ Iowa State (3/8, RPI of 100); Predicted Line: Kansas State -3.5

Going Bowling? (Part II)

One weekend of football is in the books since the last edition of "Going Bowling?" so it's time t o step back and take another look. None of the teams on the bowl bubble did anything last weekend to help their causes, as Kansas State, Colorado, Texas A&M, and Oklahoma State all took it on the chin.

The Big XII still stands to have no fewer than 8 teams in bowl games, which could be altered if the Conference is in some way able to take two teams to the BCS. The number could also be increased if another Conference is unable to fill their own allotment of bowl teams, which is looking to be a real possibility. If Oregon makes the MNC Game, the Pac 10 will have an additional bowl slot open, and a few other Conferences will be in similar scenarios. But, as it stands right now, the Big XII is still looking at the following options:

BCS
Cotton
Holiday
Gator
Alamo
Sun (if Gator does not select a Big XII team)
Insight
Independence
Texas

Things could get really interesting, however, as possibly two bowl eligible teams from the Conference (UNL, A&M) may be sans coach immediately after the regular season. I don't know enough to be sure if that would impact a bowl committee's decision to select either team, or even if either of those schools would accept a bowl invitation dure to their coaching searches.

Now then, let's take a look at the teams with a chance at becoming bowl eligible, their remaining schedules, and their chances of not only making bowls, but what bowls they will make. Keep in mind that these are all predicated on the Big XII placing only one team in the BCS. If there are two, which could happen with multiple scenarios, then simply move each team up a slot:

Kansas, 10-0 (6-0)
The remaining schedule: Iowa State, Missouri (@KC)
Predicted finish: 11-1 (7-1)
Thoughts: I've been calling Kansas a fraud all year, and while they still haven't played a top 25 team, they have been able to show up every week and play good football. I still see them losing to a Missouri team with more talent and experience, but that is looking more and more like a very good matchup. Iowa State could be the all too common "trap game" if they are looking towards Arrowhead. For now, I am still predicting a loss to Missouri, although things could definitely change over the next 96 hours. That would likely land them in sunny San Diego, which is actually German for a Whale's Vagina.
Buhl's Bowl Pick: Holiday

Oklahoma, 9-1 (5-1)
The remaining schedule: @ Texas Tech, Oklahoma State
Predicted finish: 12-1 (7-1); Big XII Champion
Thoughts: Nothing has changes since last week. They should win every remaining game. Potential stumbling blocks lie ahead with Tech and the Bedlam game. That said, I still see the Sooners winning out and then beatin a North team in the Big XII Championship game. The possibility also exists that by running the table they could play for a National Championship.
Buhl's Bowl Pick: BCS/MNC Game

Missouri, 9-1 (4-1)
The remaining schedule: @ Kansas State, Kansas (@KC)
Predicted finish: 11-2 (7-1); Big XII Runner-Up
Thoughts: Missouri is a real wildcard here. They are running into a one of those potential "trap games" that I mentioned this weekend against Kansas State. It is Senior Day in a stadium where teh Tigers haven't been victorious since 1989. And they could very easily be looking ahead to the Border War with Kansas. However, smart money is likely still on the Tigers in this weekend's game, setting up next weekend's matchup which I also see them winning. I have already predicted Missouri to beat Kansas in that game, although it is becoming more and more difficult to predict. If that happens, they will find themselves in a rematch with Oklahoma for the Big XII Championship. I honestly don't see Oklahoma losing that game, but with a solid showing Missouri could still find themselves in the BCS with a loss particularly is Oklahoma lands in the MNC Game.
Buhl's Bowl Pick: Cotton/BCS

Texas, 9-2 (5-2)
The remaining schedule: @ Texas A&M
Predicted finish: 10-2 (5-2) Thoughts: This is where things start getting interesting. Last week I predicted Texas to lose on of their remaining two, with the Texas Tech game in mind. Well, they did away with Tech and now I don't see any real way that they will lose to Texas A&M. Here is what's interesting: would the Holiday Bowl take a two loss Texas team over a one loss Kansas team? I honestly think they could, but at this point I'm not ready to predict anything too wacky.
Buhl's Bowl Pick: Gator

Texas Tech, 7-4 (3-4)
The remaining schedule: Oklahoma
Predicted finish: 7-5 (3-5)
Thoughts: I predicated a win at home last week against Texas. That didn't happen, but with everyone below them basically losing, it really didn't have any bearing on their bowl destination. I don't see them beating Oklahoma, although that could be a very interesting game to watch. As of right now, they're still heading to San Antonio in my book.
Buhl's Bowl Pick: Alamo

Texas A&M, 6-5 (3-4)
The remaining schedule: Texas
Predicted finish: 6-6 (3-5)
Thoughts: The Aggies put up a fair fight last weekend in Columbia, but it just wasn't enough. As predicted before, and I'll stand by this, Texas A&M will finish the season on a four game losing streak, losing 5 of their last 6, and looking for a new coach. Again, you have to wonder how attractive this would be to a bowl right now, or even how attractive a bowl would be to this program.
Buhl's Bowl Pick: Staying Home

Oklahoma State, 5-5 (3-3)
The remaining schedule: @ Baylor, @ Oklahoma
Predicted finish: 6-6 (4-4)
Thoughts: The Baylor game still looms large, because if they aren't able to knock off unbeaten Kansas at home this weekend, it will likely be their last legitimate shot at bowl eligibility. The Bedlam game is Oklahoma is always competitive, but Oklahoma will have too much riding on that home game for the Cowboys to expect anything less than their best effort. The Cowboys finish the season with an even record, and are a bit uneasy as they watch the bowl selection shows.
Buhl's Bowl Pick: Texas

Kansas State, 5-5 (3-4)
The remaining schedule: @ Nebraska, Missouri, @ Fresno State
Predicted finish: 6-6 (3-5)
Thoughts: Can this team rebound from last weekend's thumping in Lincoln? Yes. Will they? That's the million dollar question right now. While the Missouri game is exactly the type of game the Coach Prince and the Cats have won, and can win, it's a risky proposition right now. I still have to believe that this team will be able to muster up enough for one more win this season, and for right now the game at Fresno State is the most likely option.
Buhl's Bowl Pick: Insight

Colorado, 5-6 (3-4)
The remaining schedule: Nebraska
Predicted finish: 6-6 (4-4)
Thoughts: And then there were two. Colorado and Nebraska square off on Thanksgiving weekend. The winner will become bowl eligible, and the loser will be staying home. After what Nebraska did to Kansas State over the weekend, it will certainly be difficult to pick against them. Was that game, perhaps, just what the doctor ordered for the Huskers? Maybe, but I've been led to believe that there is further decension among the Nebraska coaching staff and administration, and Colorado has played well in big games at home this season. I think Colorado wins, but they might be the least attractive of all Big XII bowl eligible teams due to their abyssmal fan support. That said, I am going to predict right now that they still get picked ahead of Texas A&M, or maybe moreso that A&M declines a bowl game...I don't know, we'll just go with this for now and figure something else out later.
Bowl Pick: Independence

Nebraska, 5-6 (2-5)
The remaining schedule: @ Colorado
Predicted finish: 5-7 (2-6)
Thoughts: Again, it was touch to pick that game in Boulder already, but I decided to go with the Buffaloes for the reasons stated above. That leaves Nebraska home for the Holidays, and looking for a new coach.
Buhl's Bowl Pick: Staying Home

Keep in mind that these predictions are as of this week. With any luck, I should be able to make this a weekly feature up until the end of the season. Should be fun. Keep checking back.