From a Memphis alum and season ticket holder, here is my two cents:
VolStud is exactly right guys....you can't make any comparisons from last years game and carry them over to this year. The only thing we know 100% for sure is that TN has the home court advantage, lol Not only is Memphis not the same team, of course no D Rose CDR or Dorsey inside, would hurt any team. But when you know you are going to lose someone like Rose after one year, no ifs ands or buts, then you MUST have a point guard in place for the next year. His loss wouldn't hurt so much if we just had a decent player at the point running the floor, BUT WE DONT!! Sure Willie Kemp has flashes of promise, two good games in a row now, but that means he is do for 5 bad games in a row, way too inconsistent. Tyreke has been at the point, but he has said he is much more comfy being free and catching the assist and popping a 3 or driving inside, not controlling the floor. Antonio has played the point, but his top job is as one of the best defenders in the country. Witherspoon started some games at the point, but he is having knee surgery first thing monday morning so who knows how he will play today, he only put off the surgery to play in this game. In all, coach Cal has played 5 different players at point this year and no one has stepped up and took over the job. And you all know, to win, especially on the road, YOU MUST HAVE a point guard.
I would not touch a side in this game......for one thing this game is up in the air, plus I like to be able to just watch and cheer for my team. I have attended every home game and 1 away game, in Tulsa, and you see a different Tiger team every game. If I had a gun to my head and had to play a side, I would play TN just based on the home court.
I think the better play is on the under. Memphis still has it's trademark top ten defense. And TN has looked much better the last two games after the players only meeting when Meeks lit them up. Just like last year, everyone expected fast paced, high scoring, battle, and neither team got out of the 60's. Add to that, the fact that there is MUCH LESS firepower on the court this year makes it a even better play for me. No Lofton bombing 3's, no Smith boys, no CDR making clutch shots, no Rose driving and making key shots or key assists.........sure Tyreke may get his, Tyler Smith might have a big game, but after that, I think they all pretty much neutralize each other on both sides.
Best ot luck to all and GO TIGERS, but the only play I will be on is the under!
hate to say this but memphis is the play.
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