Record: 167-156-4
Another winning day yesterday...granted it was 3-2 but oh well. Add South Alabama to Fullerton as the only two teams in the country that I can't get right ever. Those of you who read my thread regularly know that I rarely put forth this big of a "please pick this bet" vibe. On the radio show here in Richmond, I've made 5 "millenium lock" type bets with the last three being Temple beating Ohio in football, the under in the Wazzu/UNC tourney game and the Flyers beating the Caps in Game 6 i believe.
I hate doing these things because if it's wrong people won't listen to my thoughts but I feel real strong about this. Here it goes....
Nevada -1 The reasons for this are many:
- Nevada's not half bad this season. You are getting a shorter line because of the perceived records difference. They've got the size and depth to keep up.
- VCU just played Wednesday night and left from that game for Baltimore before flying into Reno. Long flight arrival about 3 or 4 pm today out there. The altitude has to get to them at some point
- The Rams lack of depth. VCU doesnt play as many guys as they would if Kearse and Ndongo were there. They won't be pressing as much i'd think with the issues of altitude and legs.
- What's the motivation here? ESPN royally screwed this team with this matchup by making them go out West and play 48 hours after a tough home game with Delaware. A VCU win doesnt get them onto the bubble. A VCU loss doesnt knock them off.
- Looking Ahead. Next up for the Rams are a hungry JMU team who took the Rams to OT in their building without 3/5ths of their starting 5. Madison would love nothing more then to knock them out of first place.
Reasons Against This Pick
- Eric Maynor. He will be the best player on this court and it's another chance for him to improve his draft stock
- Larry Sanders. He's going to give Babbitt a run for his money
If Coach Grant is smart he plays Maynor and Sanders about 20-25 mins a pop and allow his bench to get more confidence. Those who watch this team regularly know how much they rely on Maynor. This could be a great chance for them to strengthen the bench of Saintil, Gwynn, Rozzell and the rest. I've been to every VCU home game and consider myself a fan of them so this is tough to say but I think Nevada takes this one.