Disqus - Latest Comments for Big A

Re: Game Thread: Chattanooga @ Indiana

Big A — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 18:22:11 -0000

Crimson,

I agree with you. UK is thin up front and USC is very young. I'd like to see better defense tonight and if that happens, we should all be happy.

Re: Game Thread: Chattanooga @ Indiana

Big A — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 21:08:46 -0000

Fan,

We link to other blogs with good writing, despite the fact that we can't stand Kentucky.

Re: Gordon sets freshman record as IU rolls, 99-79

Big A — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 22:16:18 -0000

They said it was a record on the Big Ten Network.

Re: Gordon sets freshman record as IU rolls, 99-79

Big A — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 22:45:40 -0000

It was a record for a freshman in his first game.

Re: The Morning After: Chattanooga

Big A — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 14:34:49 -0000

JohnMoc,

Thanks for stopping by. You guys should be a force in the Southern conference. That was a great opponent for Indiana to open up with.

Re: Signing period kicks off; Jones decision expected

Big A — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 13:42:22 -0000

My source is telling me it's not IU, so apparently there are conflicting reports circulating.

Re: Signing period kicks off; Jones decision expected

Big A — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 13:44:59 -0000

Also, Roth, Holloway and Pritchard have signed and their LOI's have been received by Indiana.

Re: Kevin Jones to West Virginia; LOI’s arrive

Big A — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 14:25:55 -0000

I think the juco route will be explored, but it'll have to make sense. Otherwise, hello 2009.

Re: Kevin Jones to West Virginia; LOI’s arrive

Big A — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 14:48:43 -0000

Pretty sure I read that Ebanks will sign later this week. I wouldn't worry about him not coming to IU, his commitment is solid.

Re: Kevin Jones to West Virginia; LOI’s arrive

Big A — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 15:45:13 -0000

If Mike White is 6'6", ITH gets more traffic than ESPN.com. But hey, if the Media guide says so, it must be true, right?

Re: Sampson talks 2008 recruiting class

Big A — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 18:55:16 -0000

I noticed that as well.

I also noticed the Roth to Humphrey comparison, which is exactly the same thing Dave Telep of Scout.com said when I asked him about Matt Roth.

And finally, his last quote on Holloway makes a reference to the Bud Mackey situation.

Re: Is it OK to boo Lance Stemler?

Big A — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 11:37:15 -0000

Is it okay to boo PostmanR? Not that I'm advocating it or anything, sir.

For the record, I probably wouldn't ever boo any player, but I think R's point of view is just trying to make sense of why people do in fact, boo.

Re: Is it OK to boo Lance Stemler?

Big A — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 14:02:37 -0000

I've sifted through the comments here and I think the meaning of this post has been taken way out of context and here is why.

What R is discussing is all fact: Sean Kline, Ben Allen and Lance Stemler have all been booed. R was not among those booing nor did he stir up a movement to boo players. The fact is, this topic is relevant because it has happened in the past and could continue to happen down the road.

He simply stated his opinion, a somewhat indecisive one at that, at the end of his post. He's entitled to that opinion, even if you or I don't agree with it.

He's an IU fan like the rest of us and I can say with a good deal of certainty that he never has or will boo a player.

Re: Is it OK to boo Lance Stemler?

Big A — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 14:52:35 -0000

Agree with you Joel. Excellent point my friend.

Re: Is it OK to boo Lance Stemler?

Big A — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 15:09:59 -0000

A little more on Stemler, I had a chance to talk to him down at the recruit game at New Albany and he's a great kid. My guess is that he's disappointed in how he's played so far, but realizes that he can help this team by playing defense and going after loose balls. Chattanooga was a bad matchup for him because their bigs were fairly quick. I think he'll play better and will help this team.

Re: Experts weigh in on 2008 recruiting class

Big A — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 21:34:39 -0000

Jordan,

Gotta agree with you on "Clark in the dark's" rankings. I only mentioned him for a couple of reasons:

1. He's been around forever and he does see a lot of players.
2. It was an opportunity to bring up one of my favorite recruits, Ivan Renko.

I also found it curious that he doesn't include Matt Roth as committed to Indiana.

Re: Experts weigh in on 2008 recruiting class

Big A — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 07:10:46 -0000

Alan,

Ivan Renko, for sure.

Re: The Morning After: Longwood

Big A — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 15:43:17 -0000

I agree that Stemler should be coming off the bench but I still think he brings value to this team for one simple reason: He plays hard. He gets on the ball after loose balls and you can tell he's giving it 110% when he's out there. I'll never fault the guy for his lack of athletic ability if he's out there busting his tail. That's what Lance is doing.

Re: Film Session: Defending the back door cut

Big A — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 16:23:34 -0000

That's Stemler, Bassett in the middle and Crawford underneath the basket.

Re: It’s Official: Mike White will redshirt

Big A — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 12:24:13 -0000

Not to crush anyone's optimism regarding Dexter Strickland, but it is highly unlikely that he will attend Indiana. Florida, Michigan State and North Carolina are the three schools I believe he'll choose from.

Re: Game Thread: UNC Wilmington @ Indiana

Big A — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 19:13:56 -0000

Not a good start at all, folks.

UNCW 18, IU 8

Re: Game Thread: UNC Wilmington @ Indiana

Big A — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 19:35:19 -0000

Another quick update:

IU 26
UNCW 24

Re: Game Thread: UNC Wilmington @ Indiana

Big A — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 19:47:50 -0000

IU 39, Wilmington 26

Re: Game Thread: UNC Wilmington @ Indiana

Big A — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 19:57:11 -0000

My first half thoughts:

- Another slow start, but the Hoosiers picked it up big time. 37-10 run to end the half.

- Loved Stemler's play off the bench. He didn't do anything on offense, but he was all over the place on defense. Loved his effort.

- Bassett and EJ look great once again.

- Jamarcus Ellis is a ridiculous passer. The ball fake and rocket pass to D.J. was nice.

Kelin,

I'll try to live blog some more of the games as the season moves along.

Re: Game Thread: UNC Wilmington @ Indiana

Big A — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 20:19:18 -0000

Student radio is free:

http://www.wiux.org/

Top right corner you can pick your stream.

You can also try www.hankfm.com but I'm not sure if they offer streaming for sure.

Re: Game Thread: UNC Wilmington @ Indiana

Big A — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 20:32:20 -0000

The defense is definitely improving. Wilmington will be a decent team in the Colonial and IU is whipping them handily.

Re: Gordon’s 30 leads IU past Wilmington, 95-71

Big A — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 22:23:22 -0000

Agree with you 100% Chuck, I thought Lance played a great game. He was all over the floor diving for balls and he really got the crowd into the game.

Re: The Morning After: UNC-Wilmington

Big A — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 09:51:35 -0000

Agree with you totally on Bassett's defense. I can tell a huge difference when we have Gordon guarding the primary ball handler instead of Armon. Gordon makes it a lot tougher on the point guard to get anything going. I think Armon will improve as the season goes along, but I'd like to see him make an effort to put more pressure on the ball. You can't let guys get into the lane that easily.

Re: Know Thy Opponent: Illinois State Redbirds

Big A — Fri, 23 Nov 2007 18:41:45 -0000

BC,

Not a problem. Hope you had a good holiday, sir.

Big A

Re: Game Thread: Indiana vs. Illinois State

Big A — Fri, 23 Nov 2007 19:46:28 -0000

I would try Yogi's or Nick's. I'm guessing Scotty's would have it as well.

Re: Game Thread: Indiana vs. Illinois State

Big A — Fri, 23 Nov 2007 21:53:52 -0000

Bama Chris,

I'm not a fan of the court. They've got 3 different three-point lines.

Re: Game Thread: Indiana vs. Illinois State

Big A — Fri, 23 Nov 2007 21:57:34 -0000

First half in the books:

IU 38, Ill St. 28

Gordon leading the way with 20. We're struggling to establish an inside game. Definitely need to get D.J. more good looks. A lot of bad fouls by DeAndre where he left his feet and tried to block shots. Ellis is having a solid game, but not much out of Bassett so far. EJ is also doing an excellent job shutting down Eldridge.

Re: Gordon does it all in 70-57 win over Illinois State

Big A — Sat, 24 Nov 2007 11:05:03 -0000

I've had a couple of e-mails asking about Armon Bassett's injury. At this point, all I know is what Coach Sampson said after the game. Armon's status for tonight is unknown. I'm sure we'll know more later today but I would not jump to any conclusions at this point.

Re: Game Thread: Indiana vs. Xavier

Big A — Sat, 24 Nov 2007 19:30:12 -0000

Hoosier Hound,

Just went with what IU had in their media notes.

Re: Game Thread: Indiana vs. Xavier

Big A — Sat, 24 Nov 2007 20:28:09 -0000

Just saw where the Hoosiers are only favored by two (also saw it as low as one)...very interesting.

Also read where Bassett should start.

Re: Game Thread: Indiana vs. Xavier

Big A — Sat, 24 Nov 2007 20:35:15 -0000

Armon is in the lineup and ready to go.

Re: Game Thread: Indiana vs. Xavier

Big A — Sat, 24 Nov 2007 20:45:41 -0000

I agree, I don't like the lines at all. Do they really need 3 different three-point lines? Also agree that the camera work by the BTN is awful.

Re: Game Thread: Indiana vs. Xavier

Big A — Sat, 24 Nov 2007 20:51:44 -0000

This is a new record for putting up a new net.

Re: Game Thread: Indiana vs. Xavier

Big A — Sat, 24 Nov 2007 22:10:14 -0000

We're not out of it, just need some stops.

Re: The Morning After: Xavier

Big A — Mon, 26 Nov 2007 22:43:09 -0000

Maybe I'm mistaken, but isn't Mitch Richmond like 6'5"?

Re: Know Thy Opponent: Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets

Big A — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 13:10:14 -0000

Werd,

Fixed the Yellow Jackets. Miller is 6-1 and a freshman guard.

Re: Know Thy Opponent: Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets

Big A — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 16:04:15 -0000

BC,

IU is favored by 10.

Re: Game Thread: Georgia Tech @ Indiana

Big A — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 20:07:40 -0000

Brian,

We'll try to do some more live blogs as the season goes on. I just got home and didn't see the first half. How have we looked, ITH'ers?

Re: Game Thread: Georgia Tech @ Indiana

Big A — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 21:51:01 -0000

For those of you who like to read about recruiting, Stephan Van Treese was directly behind the bench tonight alongside Ray McCallum Jr.

Re: Gordon and White lead Hoosiers past Tech, 83-79

Big A — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 22:06:48 -0000

All that is being said on Crawford is he violated team rules. I'm guessing they'll have no further comment on what he did.

Re: Game Thread: Indiana @ Southern Illinois

Big A — Sat, 01 Dec 2007 22:16:47 -0000

If we don't start blocking out, there's no way we're coming out of this game with a W.

Re: The Morning After: Southern Illinois

Big A — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 14:19:06 -0000

Best.Picture.Evar

Re: The Morning After: Southern Illinois

Big A — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 14:58:05 -0000

I think Ratliff will be the first guard off the bench for one simple reason: He is a very good defender. That is something this team desperately needs on the perimeter. Bassett in particular has done a suspect job at best at stopping penetration. Against a good point guard like Lawson, Collison or even Travis Walton of Michigan State, he'll get manhandled if he can't stop ball penetration.

Re: D.J. White sets career high in IU’s 84-72 win against Tennessee State, Gordon hurt

Big A — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 22:19:46 -0000

Melissa,

Greetings on Kirkwood is your best bet.

Address is 429 E. Kirkwood. Phone number is 332-2737.

Re: The Morning After: Tennessee State

Big A — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 09:55:28 -0000

Bill,

Not sure what you're referring to on the links. Anyone else having any problems with the site? Everything looks good for me in both Mozilla and IE.

Re: Game Thread: Tennessee State

Big A — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 14:00:56 -0000

Don't worry Bobby, plenty more of where that came from...

Re: Update on Eric Gordon from Coach Sampson

Big A — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 14:44:52 -0000

Gotta agree with you MikeyD. I expect EJ to come out and play a great game.

Re: Know Thy Opponent: Kentucky Wildcats

Big A — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 10:41:48 -0000

Joey,

Just for the record, Clay isn't a beat writer. He's a columnist and is paid to give his opinion. Not that I agree with his column today, but it's important to realize the distinction between reporter and columnist.

Re: Know Thy Opponent: Kentucky Wildcats

Big A — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 11:43:28 -0000

Sherron,

That Knight headbutt must have had a real effect on you.

Re: Inaugural Inside the Hall Podcast: You know, you know, you know

Big A — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 13:59:00 -0000

The stripe out is a good idea in theory, but I doubt it would ever be executed correctly.

I think the whiteout will prevail.

Re: Inaugural Inside the Hall Podcast: You know, you know, you know

Big A — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 14:53:13 -0000

The stripe out had more legs than the white out until the IU athletic department announced the white out recently.

Personally, I'm not sure what the point of having a stripe out or a white out is, but hey, what do I know?

Re: Inaugural Inside the Hall Podcast: You know, you know, you know

Big A — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 18:23:54 -0000

I won't be able to watch Pritchard tonight, so let me know how he looks, Luke.

I'll try to DVR it.

Re: Game Thread: Kentucky @ Indiana

Big A — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 13:05:36 -0000

Packer is a lot worse. At least Vitale is enthusiastic.

Re: Game Thread: Kentucky @ Indiana

Big A — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 13:43:05 -0000

I'm hearing the same thing regarding a suspension...Nothing official to report, though.

Re: Game Thread: Kentucky @ Indiana

Big A — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 13:44:59 -0000

Herald Times just reported that Gordon is 50-50 to play today...

http://blogs.heraldtimesonline.com/iusp/?p=1166

Re: Game Thread: Kentucky @ Indiana

Big A — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 14:54:17 -0000

Bassett will not play today:

http://blogs.heraldtimesonline.com/iusp/?p=1168

Re: Game Thread: Kentucky @ Indiana

Big A — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 14:58:21 -0000

At what point do we start to ask what type of control Sampson has on the program? First we have Ratliff not making his grades, the phone calls and now back to back suspensions to Crawford and Bassett. Not good, folks.

Re: Game Thread: Kentucky @ Indiana

Big A — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 15:02:33 -0000

Anyone looking for a stream of the IU feed, here it is:

http://www.1570thezone.com/player.asp

Re: Game Thread: Kentucky @ Indiana

Big A — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 15:11:50 -0000

As the team warms up as we speak in the Hall, Armon is standing on the sidelines in a red sweater.

Re: Game Thread: Kentucky @ Indiana

Big A — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 15:17:15 -0000

Sounds like a pretty good guess to me, Ryan.

Ellis and Crawford better be prepared to play all 40 minutes.

Re: Game Thread: Kentucky @ Indiana

Big A — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 15:22:58 -0000

Matt,

I agree with some of what Hoosier Fan said. It just seems like there is a lack of control right now and while it might not merit firing Sampson, he should take part of the blame for misbehavior on the player's part. I'm not sure what's behind Jordan or Armon's suspensions, but these types of things simply cannot be happening. We're already underneath a huge microscope.

Re: Game Thread: Kentucky @ Indiana

Big A — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 15:30:59 -0000

I just deleted a comment. We try to avoid moderating comments, but blatantly calling someone a name will never be tolerated. If you want to respectfully disagree, that's certainly alright.

Re: Game Thread: Kentucky @ Indiana

Big A — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 15:42:54 -0000

Just got word that EJ is now on the floor, still no word on if he'll play.

Re: Game Thread: Kentucky @ Indiana

Big A — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 15:57:47 -0000

Kelin,

Armon isn't playing.

Re: Game Thread: Kentucky @ Indiana

Big A — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 15:58:58 -0000

Any word on who will start?

Re: Game Thread: Kentucky @ Indiana

Big A — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 16:12:51 -0000

We look relaxed and running some offense today.

Good start so far.

Re: Game Thread: Kentucky @ Indiana

Big A — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 16:20:25 -0000

Verne is clueless...Marcus White, DeAndre Thompson

Re: Game Thread: Kentucky @ Indiana

Big A — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 16:21:15 -0000

HoosierFan,

Crowd is pumped and most have complied with the "White Out"

Re: Game Thread: Kentucky @ Indiana

Big A — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 16:33:17 -0000

23-13 at the under 8 media timeout. So far the bank is open for the Hoosiers.

Re: Game Thread: Kentucky @ Indiana

Big A — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 16:35:24 -0000

Not sure Ray, I'll try to check on that.

Re: Game Thread: Kentucky @ Indiana

Big A — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 16:42:10 -0000

Need to start knocking down the free throws.

Re: Game Thread: Kentucky @ Indiana

Big A — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 16:43:22 -0000

Hoosier Fan,

IU is outworking them on the glass and not giving them any second shots. We'd be up 20 if we could make free throws. We're 8 of 14 from the foul line.

Re: Game Thread: Kentucky @ Indiana

Big A — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 16:54:09 -0000

8 Free throw missed...dicey.

Re: Game Thread: Kentucky @ Indiana

Big A — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 16:57:46 -0000

Anyone else catch the "booger eater" chant last time Patterson shot free throws?

Re: Game Thread: Kentucky @ Indiana

Big A — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 17:10:05 -0000

Kelin,

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fQ3xO3WsIAU

Re: Game Thread: Kentucky @ Indiana

Big A — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 17:32:33 -0000

Is it just me or does Gillispie look a little hung over?

Re: Game Thread: Kentucky @ Indiana

Big A — Sun, 09 Dec 2007 10:28:58 -0000

KnaSmiley,

All I said was the following:

At what point do we start to ask what type of control Sampson has on the program? First we have Ratliff not making his grades, the phone calls and now back to back suspensions to Crawford and Bassett. Not good, folks.

and...

I agree with some of what Hoosier Fan said. It just seems like there is a lack of control right now and while it might not merit firing Sampson, he should take part of the blame for misbehavior on the player’s part. I’m not sure what’s behind Jordan or Armon’s suspensions, but these types of things simply cannot be happening. We’re already underneath a huge microscope.

-------

All I said was this stuff cannot be happening, whatever it may be, and that Sampson should be held accountable since he is the leader of the program.

Re: No Gordon, No Bassett, No problem for IU

Big A — Sun, 09 Dec 2007 10:34:53 -0000

I think the main point of emphasis here is that winning cures all...for now. As I said yesterday, I haven't promoted getting rid of Coach Sampson nor will I. I think he's doing a great job coaching the team. However, I am a bit concerned with some of the things that have gone on this season. Hopefully Bassett and Crawford now have their heads on straight and Ratliff will be able to return and have a solid second half.

Re: The Morning After: Kentucky

Big A — Sun, 09 Dec 2007 13:47:10 -0000

As far as my comments yesterday go, I'm going to stand behind them. First off, I think Coach Sampson is doing a great job and he should continue to be the coach at Indiana. He gets the most out of his players and the team plays hard for him.

I am a bit frustrated that it seems like it's been one thing after another so far this season. I agree that you cannot place all of the blame on Sampson for off the court problems that aren't related to academics.

He does, however, need to have some accountability for how the players act off the court. After all, he is the leader of the program. I commend him for suspending players if they break team rules, but I hope he is making it known to each of them that this behavior is not acceptable and the next infraction will be dealt with a lot differently. All of the IU players are representatives of the university and are privileged to have their education paid for at one of the greatest institutions anywhere.

Let's hope from this point on we can all concentrate on what happens on the court and not player suspensions and phone calls.

Re: Bud Mackey enrolls at Atlanta high school

Big A — Sun, 09 Dec 2007 14:26:09 -0000

"i can’t see him getting off without at least serving some time in prison…he had possession of an illegal substance INSIDE a school (sentencing is much more harsh within so many hundred yards of a school, much less within the school)."

Ray,

I think the fact that he moved to Atlanta and is apparently going to suit up as early as this week is telling of how this situation will end up.

Re: ITH Podcast No. 2: What A.J. Ratliff’s return will do for the ’skod’

Big A — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 13:06:39 -0000

Thought you guys improved a lot on this show...Although I was hoping we could hear Bob Knight's rant about the Purdue game.

Re: Highlights from Sampson’s weekly presser

Big A — Thu, 13 Dec 2007 18:49:33 -0000

MPMIKE,

I realize the Mackey story isn't true. I was just relaying the info from the printed story in the Georgetown paper.

Sounds like Mr. Mackey had a little problem running his mouth before the fact to a reporter who took the story and ran with it.

Re: Hoops Weiss on EJ, Dickie V takes a leave from ESPN

Big A — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 21:20:11 -0000

Kelin,

Perhaps they are basing their draft on the need of the team making the pick. Although it's impossible to predict how the lottery will pan out, I'm guessing that's what they're trying to do based on the current record of every team.

Re: Hoops Weiss on EJ, Dickie V takes a leave from ESPN

Big A — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 23:18:03 -0000

Off Topic, but did anyone enjoy that beat down Houston put on Kentucky?

Re: Hoops Weiss on EJ, Dickie V takes a leave from ESPN

Big A — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 21:14:53 -0000

Kelin,

Comparing Derrick Rose to Brevin Knight is a bit ridiculous. Knight is 5'10" and not nearly as athletic as Rose. I think Rose and Gordon are neck and neck in terms of their potential on the next level. My guess is they'll both be top five picks.

Re: ITH Super Happy Fun Time Big Ten Preview: Wolverines of Michigan

Big A — Sat, 22 Dec 2007 10:23:56 -0000

Good stuff E. I would like to point out that freshman guard Manny Harris has been a stud thus far for the Wolverines. He's averaging just over 16 points, nearly five boards and three assists. He's the guy to watch for when the Hoosiers take on Michigan.

Re: Indy Star reveals names involved in three-way calls

Big A — Sat, 22 Dec 2007 13:00:36 -0000

Agree Chicago, this is painful to watch. Hope they get it going in the second half.

Re: Reggie Bullock impressive in holiday tournaments

Big A — Sat, 29 Dec 2007 12:58:36 -0000

TB,

IU is averaging 82.1 ppg and they've got four players averaging double figures in scoring. I wouldn't consider that grinding it out.

Re: Game Thread: Chicago State @ Indiana

Big A — Sat, 29 Dec 2007 19:20:14 -0000

Good to see that EJ has returned to form early on.

Re: Game Thread: Chicago State @ Indiana

Big A — Sat, 29 Dec 2007 19:40:31 -0000

Good to hear that Ratliff being held out is just precautionary. Laskowski said if this were a Big Ten game, he'd be playing.

Re: Sampson scoffs at question about schedule

Big A — Sun, 30 Dec 2007 11:54:35 -0000

I thought it was a fair question. Anyone know who asked the question? I couldn't make out the voice.

Re: Sampson scoffs at question about schedule

Big A — Sun, 30 Dec 2007 16:19:31 -0000

I'm really not sure how you can defend this schedule as being tough. It's ranked No. 219 nationally, which is exactly why people are wondering how it will prepare IU for the Big Ten.

Sure, there are some solid name opponents in the mix, but my bigger issue is that the Hoosiers will go 24 days between legitimate opponents (Kentucky and Iowa). I'm not really sure what purpose scheduling Western Carolina, Coppin State and Chicago State serves in the final three games leading to the Big Ten. It's dropped the RPI about 20 spots and I don't think you improve much blowing out horrible teams. Just my take and I'm glad to see it's generating some interesting discussion. Good stuff. Hope you all had a nice Holiday.

Re: Sampson scoffs at question about schedule

Big A — Sun, 30 Dec 2007 19:01:48 -0000

Thanks for the clarification, Zak. I had a hard time figuring out who it was since most of the beat writers are out in Tempe for the Insight Bowl.

Re: Hoosiers jump two spots in both polls

Big A — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 12:59:34 -0000

B-side,

He voted IU No. 17 this week.

http://pollspeak.com/pollstalker/pollstalker.ph...

Re: ITH Super Happy Fun Time Big Ten Preview: Spartans of Michigan State

Big A — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 11:31:56 -0000

Tom,

Agreed that Morgan is more like a 3/4. He does post up sometimes, but he's more of a slasher and a midrange guy. I really like his game.

Neitzel has the ability to play the point, but Lucas and Walton are the primary ball handlers. Neitzel spends most of his time running off of screens and taking off balanced shots that always seem to go in.

Re: ITH Super Happy Fun Time Big Ten Preview: Spartans of Michigan State

Big A — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 14:07:54 -0000

Thanks for stopping by Spartan Blogger. Enjoyed your preview.

Re: Game Thread - Live Blog: Indiana @ Iowa

Big A — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 19:46:37 -0000

I would expect Ratliff to play this evening.

Dale,
Thanks for the nice words. They are certainly appreciated.

Re: Game Thread - Live Blog: Indiana @ Iowa

Big A — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 21:47:52 -0000

Bassett's ankle is hurt. He was questionable before the game started. Guess he tested it out and decided he can't go.

Re: Game Thread - Live Blog: Indiana @ Iowa

Big A — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 22:25:33 -0000

This game is going down to the wire unless we can get some good looks on offense. Far too much one-on-one.

Re: Game Thread - Live Blog: Indiana @ Iowa

Big A — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 22:59:41 -0000

Luke,

They are clueless. They probably don't even realize he's not playing.

Re: Dominique Ferguson providing a boost off the bench for Lawrence North

Big A — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 14:50:09 -0000

Robert,

Let us know your thoughts on Ray Jr. I'm interested to hear how he's progressed since I saw him last summer. You can email me at tips@insidethehall.com if you wish.

Re: Game Thread - Live Blog: Indiana @ Michigan

Big A — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 14:32:30 -0000

Threw up a new Erin picture for your viewing pleasure.

Re: Game Thread - Live Blog: Indiana @ Michigan

Big A — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 14:58:50 -0000

Hawk, as in Hawk Harrelson?

Re: Game Thread - Live Blog: Indiana @ Michigan

Big A — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 18:51:41 -0000

Chris Korman of the Herald Times is reporting that Bassett looks fine.

http://blogs.heraldtimesonline.com/iusp/?p=1345

Re: Game Thread - Live Blog: Indiana @ Michigan

Big A — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 18:52:37 -0000

Tyler,

Just so you know, R and I are White Sox fans and E is a Cubs fan. Sometimes I debate whether I should claim E because of this sad fact. With that said, I love Hawk.

Re: Game Thread - Live Blog: Indiana @ Michigan

Big A — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 19:11:03 -0000

James,

I didn't think the travel was a bad call. Looked like he shuffled his feet on the replay.

Re: Game Thread - Live Blog: Indiana @ Michigan

Big A — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 19:12:00 -0000

Sure am, glad you found your way over to Inside the Hall. Welcome.

Re: Game Thread - Live Blog: Indiana @ Michigan

Big A — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 19:29:23 -0000

My guess is that Gordon is done for the half with the third foul. Fortunately the Hoosiers have a firm grip on this game early on.

Re: Game Thread - Live Blog: Indiana @ Michigan

Big A — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 19:41:54 -0000

I'll try to continue the live blog in the second half, but right now there is a storm and my DIRECTV signal isn't picking up.

Re: Game Thread - Live Blog: Indiana @ Michigan

Big A — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 19:48:41 -0000

My signal came back just in time for me to see Sportscenter's play of the night from DeShawn Sims. Lovely.

Re: Game Thread - Live Blog: Indiana @ Michigan

Big A — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 19:50:48 -0000

James,

Have to agree.

Crawford is 2 of 10, has three turnovers and one assist.

Re: Game Thread - Live Blog: Indiana @ Michigan

Big A — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 20:13:24 -0000

Monster game for D.J. 14 points and 15 boards so far.

Re: Game Thread - Live Blog: Indiana @ Michigan

Big A — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 20:14:56 -0000

I like Crawford's potential, but if he's going to play point, he needs to pass first and shoot second.

Re: Game Thread - Live Blog: Indiana @ Michigan

Big A — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 21:04:45 -0000

I don't think Sampson was too happy about that dunk attempt by McGee. Beilein didn't look thrilled either.

Re: Game Thread - Live Blog: Indiana @ Michigan

Big A — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 21:08:47 -0000

Good stuff Stephen, thanks for sharing.

Re: There will be blood

Big A — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 18:22:13 -0000

E,

You forgot to mention the best thing about Chicago: The White Sox.

Re: There will be blood

Big A — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 10:11:46 -0000

Moose,

Unfortunately, E likes the Cubs. We try not to hold that against him.

Re: Film Session: Gordon’s ridiculous range

Big A — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 16:50:15 -0000

Ryan,

I believe Deron Williams was asked a question about Gordon after he backed out of his commitment to Illinois and Williams responded with..."I Don't Know Who That Is."

Re: Game Thread: Illinois @ Indiana

Big A — Sun, 13 Jan 2008 16:46:22 -0000

Thank you CBS for showing us about 100 commercials and NFL postgame. Total BS.

Re: Game Thread: Illinois @ Indiana

Big A — Sun, 13 Jan 2008 17:30:37 -0000

Ugly first half by the Hoosiers. Need to find a way to get better looks and push the tempo.

Re: Game Thread: Illinois @ Indiana

Big A — Sun, 13 Jan 2008 18:46:53 -0000

Ugly win, but I'll take it. R will have a recap soon.

Re: Help us improve Inside the Hall

Big A — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 11:54:41 -0000

For the record, that's me in the middle...

Just kidding.

Timmy,

What do you mean by a user community? Care to elaborate?

Re: Q and A: ESPN’s Pat Forde

Big A — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 16:35:37 -0000

All you need to know about Shrutebag, er, Colin Cowherd is at the below link:

http://deadspin.com/sports/espn/this-hurts-us-m...

Re: Q and A: ESPN’s Pat Forde

Big A — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 21:26:51 -0000

For the record, I have no problem with people giving their opinion. In fact, it's encouraged and it's what makes this place great. However, personal attacks are another thing. Keep that in mind before you decide to post something.

Big A

Re: Ripe for an upset? Not so fast

Big A — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 13:52:27 -0000

Per Doris Burke of ESPN, Bassett is likely to start tonight.