Is Drake as good as SIU's team from last year?

[goaces]

Though SIU did not win the conference tournament last year, I felt very confident that SIU would get to the sweet sixteen. That has been the only time I have ever felt that way for a Valley team, I felt that they were that good. How far can Drake go?

[Ace Dad]

I think Drake relies too much on the three-ball to make a deep run. Not sure if they can alter their game for a post presence or other significant way to score. However, I need to be careful. I have only seen Drake play one time this year and not in person.

[D Fast]

I think Drake relies too much on the three-ball to make a deep run. Not sure if they can alter their game for a post presence or other significant way to score. However, I need to be careful. I have only seen Drake play one time this year and not in person.

You should have caught the games this weekend your opinion would be diff.

[kw8489]

Short answer: no.

While Drake is very good offensively I think their defense will ultimately be their downfall. If they run into a good, efficient offense I think they could be in a lot of trouble (think Kansas, UNC, UCLA). They could have a shot at a nice run if paired with more defensive minded teams (think Wisconsin, Georgetown, Memphis).

Last year's Saluki's were so good defensively that it kept them in games where they might have appeared over-matched. Add that to their experienced guards, athleticism and tenacity and SIU had a realistic final four shot last year. I don't think Drake has that kind of potential, but time will tell.

[Shoxfan11]

You should have caught the games this weekend your opinion would be diff.

24 attempted 3 pointers in the championship game..

[jayfan04]

It all depends on match ups to make a run to the sweet sixteen. The Omaha World Herald ran an article today saying that Drake's resume was more similar to SIU of 2005 then to SIU 0f 2007 that got a 4 seed in the tourney. They also compared their resume to Nevada of last year that Creighton played in the 7-10 game. Many thought that team should have been a 3-5 seed and the committee put them as a 7. I would say if Drake gets a 7 seed and meets a 10 they would have a good chance then match up against say a Wisconsin or Georgetown I would like their chances to go to the sweet sixteen. However, say in the second round they get Texas or a Duke I would say they have no chance to go to the sweet sixteen. I think Drake will likely end up in the 5-6 range seeing how the whole nation looks at the Valley as being down this season.

SIU last year got the 4 seed and played Holy Cross and Virginia Tech so they had a really good match up to get to the sweet sixteen. I personally think SIU was a better team then Drake is this year.

Hopefully, the Valley did not lose its second bid with the egg that ISU layed today.

[Awesome]

I'm going to agree SIU had a much better defense, and I believe a good defense can take you far in the tournament.

While I never want to see a Valley team play against Kansas in the tournament, I will say SIU was the one Valley team I feared if they played Kansas. I don't see a Drake-Kansas game this year being anywhere as close as SIU-Kansas from last year.

[jaypharmalum]

Drake reminds me of the Creighton team during Kyle Korver's senior season (before the MVC received the respect we deserve) and the Jays got a #6 seed. I suspect a similar seed for the Doggies, but hopefully a better postseason run.

[D Fast]

24 attempted 3 pointers in the championship game..

Your point? I guess all the drives Josh, Leonard, and Adam took for layups and getting to the line for foul shots had nothing to do with our wins either.

[Nyghtewynd]

I think Drake's better than SIU. I think they're going to give anyone they play in the tournament fits.

[Lakeview Brave]

I'm going to agree SIU had a much better defense, and I believe a good defense can take you far in the tournament.

While I never want to see a Valley team play against Kansas in the tournament, I will say SIU was the one Valley team I feared if they played Kansas. I don't see a Drake-Kansas game this year being anywhere as close as SIU-Kansas from last year.

I loved watching a Valley team play Kansas! :lol:


:braves::valley:

[SalukiProf]

The short answer is no. But with a couple favorable matchups, there is no reason why Drake cannot be a Sweet 16 team.

[gutwrencher]

Here we go again. Listen, if anyone here has seen Drake play, and not just once or twice on TV, then you know that Drake is solid. They have a much different system than anyone else, and play a better style of ball(imho). This Bulldog team can take it as far as you can imagine, and right now, thats all we can do, right? So imagine this.

The Bulldogs will slug it out with ANY team out there, I don't give a rat's who it is. The doubters will always be around stinkin' up the place. Let them doubt. We keep pushin' on and we are only getting better. I pity anyone who wants to step up to the plate.

Rock on, Bulldogs.

Are we better than last years SIU team? Well, I'm a Drake fan.....so YUP!:bulldogs:

[Dawgbit]

If the threes are dropping, Drake can play with anyone in the country. I think they are at least as good as SIU last year, but in a different way.

Go Bulldogs, the Valley will be pulling for you.

[DannyCooksey]

Not yet they aren't as good as SIU. They might be, but not yet. I hope they are though because that means they are Sweet-16 bound and I hope they can reach that level at least.

[Awesome]

I loved watching a Valley team play Kansas! :lol:


:braves::valley:

It can't happen this year, no way ISU Red or Drake get a 15 or 16. Whew.

But really, this would be year three in a row Kansas would play a Valley team if that's how teh bracket crumbles.

[drakeguy]

The arguement all year has been that if Drake doesn't make the three's they can't win. All I really have as a defense is 28-4. Statistically they aren't even the best 3 point team in the conference. Do they shoot a lot of threes? Yes, but they do a lot of other things as well.

Plus, when you have 4 guys on the court playing thirty minutes each that can drain the trey, someone is going to be knocking them down. As to this 5-6-7 seed thing, probably a 4-5. They beat Butler at Butler, have a stellar RPI, and ran through the tournament with a slim 20 point victory margin.

Once again, they are 28-4, are they better than SIU from last year? Different year, different roster, and hard to compare. SIU was very good last year, but people didn't have a problem acknowledging it because of their previous seasons. This year it is Drake, so there always has to be some other reason.

P.S. To any Emmenecker doubters out there, he pretty much dominated this tournament.

[gutwrencher]

To any Emmenecker doubters out there, he pretty much dominated this tournament.

AE is simply.....THEE MAN! Doubters are blind.

[WSUfan]

I think Drake relies too much on the three-ball to make a deep run. Not sure if they can alter their game for a post presence or other significant way to score. However, I need to be careful. I have only seen Drake play one time this year and not in person.

I suspect that you are wrong.

[MSNSaluki]

How far Drake will go in the NCAA tournament will be determined by its seed and its draw.

SIU got a well-deserved seed last year AND a great draw. It's a gift when both happen.

As far as comparing the two teams, there's no comparison. Two very good teams with wildly contrasting styles.

[gosalukie]

The important question now is what will Drake's seed be? If they get a good seed Drake is good enough to make a sweet 16 run. They should be seeded in the 4 to 5 range.

[iSASO]

Another important question is: Do the 2007-08 Drake Bulldogs replace the 2004-05 SIU squad as "The Greatest Team in the History of the MVC"?

[Dawg_tired]

Keno is going to post this thread in the locker room. :bulldogs:

[MU88]

Its all a matter of the draw. Drake would struggle against a dribble penetration team with athletic bigs that can guard them out to the three point line, e.g. Louisville, Memphis, etc. However, teams that struggle to hit the three or teams with non-athletic bigs would struggle against Drake. In the first and second rounds, match-ups dictate.

[underdawg2]

Seed is determined partially by strength of schedule--Drake still only has a 67 SOS. I hope they get a very high seed, but...

[Hein72]

Drake has a few more weak points then SIU did last year I think. I do think when Drake is hitting shots like they were today that they were better.

Hopefully Drake can avoid a draw against a great shooting team or a team with a great post game.

I would love to see Drake play a team that is undisciplined or is spotty from deep. Either of which I think plays right into Drake's hand.

[WSUbballer]

Better. Period.

[Dawgbit]

Another important question is: Do the 2007-08 Drake Bulldogs replace the 2004-05 SIU squad as "The Greatest Team in the History of the MVC"?

Turgeon is a great coach.

[Brave2001]

Different years, different teams. Too hard to tell.

Statistically, SIU is the "better" team. They played against a higher rated MVC (6th ranked vs 8th ranked) last year, and overall tougher top to bottom (lowest RPI in 2007 was like 140, this year its like 250). SIU finished with a RPI of 7 and Drake is currently 13 (could go higher). They had a better SOS last year (30 vs 79) than Drake this year and much higher Non Conf SOS of 41 vs 123. Since both had the same conference record 15-3 and nearly identical overall records, you could make the argument that statistically SIU was better last year and played a much tougher schedule while doing it.

If they played each other though? If you subscribe to the thought that defense wins games, you probably give the edge to SIU. If you think the offense and great fundamental basketball wins games, you probably give the edge to Drake.

If pressed to give an answer...I'd say SIU because the statistics bear that out and I believe tough defense coupled with an average offense is better than an great offense and an average defense.

I would not use how deep either team gets in the tournament as a measuring stick as that is more about match ups than anything else. If Drake only wins one game or none, it doesn't necessarily mean they aren't as good as SIU simply because they went to the sweet 16.

I obviously put more emphasis on a season long accumulation of stats, others may not.

Just my 2 cents.

[Brave2001]

AE is simply.....THEE MAN! Doubters are blind.

I don't think there were any doubters. Everyone on this board (even DS) said that Emmenecker was the MVP of your team and the MVP of the valley. What was up for discussion was whether the POY award is the MVP or is it the "best" player. And is debatable whether Emmenecker is the best player. Some thought Josh Young others Osiris.

That's all that was being said, but as usual everyone took that as a slam on Emmenecker and Drake because what would Valleytalk be without all the drama. Case in point: those who thought it was a slam on Drake and Emmenecker couldnt even see past that to see that most who thought the award was about best player wanted to give it to Josh Young another Drake player.

And yes AE was the MAN during the tournament, he's obviously what makes Drake go.

[DawgieStyle]

now that I have that other issue taken care of........my comment on this thread.....:lol:

They haven't even played a tournament game yet, and we're talking about Drake being better than last years SIU? :lol:

God, the blue kool-aid is flowing today....:lol:

Play a tournament game first, win it, and we'll talk about it.

[Dawg_tired]

Its all a matter of the draw. Drake would struggle against a dribble penetration team with athletic bigs that can guard them out to the three point line, e.g. Louisville, Memphis, etc. However, teams that struggle to hit the three or teams with non-athletic bigs would struggle against Drake. In the first and second rounds, match-ups dictate.

Oh...a team like Illinois state or Bradley.

[Brave2001]

Oh...a team like Illinois state or Bradley.

You did lose to Bradley at HOME didnt you? I'd call that struggling....doesn't mean you won't win, but you obviously had trouble with us.

[DawgieStyle]

You did lose to Bradley at HOME didnt you? I'd call that struggling....doesn't mean you won't win, but you obviously had trouble with us.

forget it, DT thinks Drake is going to the final 4, and the losses they did have this season were conspiracy theories by the power coferences to keep Drake from entering the top 10.

[WSUfan]

I think Drake goes to the Sweet 16 or further this year. Their "spread offense" and good passing will be tough for anyone to defend and I think Drake could beat anyone if their shooting is hot. I think Drake will not have 6 straight hot-shooting nights in the NCAA tourney but I could see 3 or 4 such nights. I think Drake in 2007-8 is a better team for NCAA tourney play than SIU in 2006-7. Both teams are good but they are very different.

[RoyalShock]

From what I've seen Drake's system relies on three things for success: effective dribble-penetration, 3-pt shooting, and using it's defense to disrupt the opponent's offensive flow. If any one of those isn't effective, the game will be close. If two aren't working well, I don't see the Bulldogs winning.

Should Drake come up against an efficient offensive team and one that can contain the dribble-penetration (through quick defenders or shot-blockers), I don't see them winning, no matter how good they are shooting from the outside.

As for the original question, I have no idea. It's all about matchups.

[WSUfan]

RS: You could be right but people have been overlooking Drake all year long. They play good defense. Against a team with a strong frontcourt, I could see the following.
Drake vs. team X: 3-0, 3-2, 6-2, 6-4, 9-4, 9-6, etc.
Florida could not stop Odem so they just outscored Ohio State. I think that Drake can outscore a lot of NCAA tourney teams.

[RoyalShock]

RS: You could be right but people have been overlooking Drake all year long. They play good defense. Against a team with a strong frontcourt, I could see the following.
Drake vs. team X: 3-0, 3-2, 6-2, 6-4, 9-4, 9-6, etc.
Florida could not stop Odem so they just outscored Ohio State. I think that Drake can outscore a lot of NCAA tourney teams.

I don't want to sound like I'm overlooking Drake. I'm not. Their ability to execute (including on defense) game-to-game is why they are where they are. I'm just pointing out how I think they will get beat, whenever that happens.

I see them getting to the 2nd round before they have a real shot at falling.

[ljparr7]

I love this Drake team. Everything about them. From all I heard their fans and the team members were FIRST CLASS here in St. Louis where I live. The game sunday was GREAT! Better than SIU last year,not sure, but don't think so! Tatum and Young were very special people. SIU got the draw (NCAA liked their mojo). Watching Drake yesterday I really think Final Four. On the other hand, takes a lot of luck, breaks, just, not fair, officiating, draw, etc. and then comes the actual playing basketball on the floor. Living by the 3 is not always the best receipt for winning. We'll see. Do I want them to be in FINAL fOUR..you bet. Sunday's game, the first half, has to be a highlight reel for MVC fans for years to come. Go Drake. An SIU alumni.

[DawgieStyle]

I love this Drake team. Everything about them. From all I heard their fans and the team members were FIRST CLASS here in St. Louis where I live. The game sunday was GREAT! Better than SIU last year,not sure, but don't think so! Tatum and Young were very special people. SIU got the draw (NCAA liked their mojo). Watching Drake yesterday I really think Final Four. On the other hand, takes a lot of luck, breaks, just, not fair, officiating, draw, etc. and then comes the actual playing basketball on the floor. Living by the 3 is not always the best receipt for winning. We'll see. Do I want them to be in FINAL fOUR..you bet. Sunday's game, the first half, has to be a highlight reel for MVC fans for years to come. Go Drake. An SIU alumni.

:helpsmilie:

[DUBulldog]

I love this Drake team. Everything about them. From all I heard their fans and the team members were FIRST CLASS here in St. Louis where I live. The game sunday was GREAT! Better than SIU last year,not sure, but don't think so! Tatum and Young were very special people. SIU got the draw (NCAA liked their mojo). Watching Drake yesterday I really think Final Four. On the other hand, takes a lot of luck, breaks, just, not fair, officiating, draw, etc. and then comes the actual playing basketball on the floor. Living by the 3 is not always the best receipt for winning.

A lot of people think that Drake lives and dies by the 3, but I'm not sure I totally agree. Drake shoots a lot of 3's, but they're capable of getting to the rim too, and they're a good enough passing team that they get a lot of easy shots inside the paint.

At Butler, Drake made only five 3's, but still won the game. To beat a top 10 team on the road without the benefit of many 3-pointers, I think shows that they're more than just a 3-point shooting team.

Another thing regarding the 3's....Drake has so many guys who are 3-point threats, that it's very unlikely this team will have a 3-19 or 4-25 type of game. Very unlikely that they all go stone cold in the same game.

[Brave2001]

I love this Drake team. Everything about them. From all I heard their fans and the team members were FIRST CLASS here in St. Louis where I live. The game sunday was GREAT! Better than SIU last year,not sure, but don't think so! Tatum and Young were very special people. SIU got the draw (NCAA liked their mojo). Watching Drake yesterday I really think Final Four. On the other hand, takes a lot of luck, breaks, just, not fair, officiating, draw, etc. and then comes the actual playing basketball on the floor. Living by the 3 is not always the best receipt for winning. We'll see. Do I want them to be in FINAL fOUR..you bet. Sunday's game, the first half, has to be a highlight reel for MVC fans for years to come. Go Drake. An SIU alumni.

Man that was hard to read through...

Final 4? Oh, come on. Let's just take one game at a time.

I'm not trying to rain on your parade or anything...I want Drake to do as well as possible, but lets just win the first game, all right? Let's just temper the exuberance, just a bit.

Go :bulldogs:

[DawgieStyle]

Final 4? Oh, come on. Let's just take one game at a time.

I'm not trying to rain on your parade or anything...I want Drake to do as well as possible, but lets just win the first game all right? Let's just temper the exuberance, just a bit.

Go :bulldogs:

that wasn't the confusing part. First he says "don't think so" to Drake being Better than SIU last year, then says Final 4 for drake, then says shooting the 3 isn't the best recipe......

Frankly, I can't tell if he thinks Drake is good or if they suck.

again......:helpsmilie:

[BDawgCarr]

Lol, yeah that was like reading a totally neutral post:

They are good, but not that good.
They can defend, but can't defend everything.
They can shoot, but not all shots will fall.

I'm glad for Drake, they have a special season going with alot of momentum. Keep it going and don't let anyone break your stride!

[drakeguy]

“I think they’re that caliber,” Valley commissioner Doug Elgin countered. “As I look back over 20 years, this is easily one of the top three or four teams in the league I have ever seen.”

That is nice props from Elgin, even if it is his job to pimp the Bulldogs. I think only time will tell if they are better, equal, or worse than SIU. The only thing I know for sure is that they are darn good. They will give a lot of teams serious problems in the dance, and have the potential to make a deep run.

Go Bulldogs :bulldogs::valley::bulldogs:

[gutwrencher]

They will give a lot of teams serious problems in the dance, and have the potential to make a deep run.

Thank you, that's correct. You don't have to break things down to the last nut and bolt to see what they are capable of doing. Just watch more than 2 or 3 games. You would have had to watch this team at every home game plus a few away games....then catch all the rest on TV/radio....to really understand what we have here. You'd have to talk with the kids to see what class they REALLY have. Only an idiot would not be blown away. Someone who is not impressed, and who has only seen a handful of games plus stat sheets, knows squat. Really, those people know jack, regardless of what comes out of their mouth or fingertips.

We are far from done when it comes to making jaws drop and tears squirt. The Bulldogs are the kings-of-the-valley. Just waitin' to see who we slap around next. I hope it's a classless bunch of loud mouth brats. Nothing like shuttin' up the punks. Hello, Boo?

[DawgieStyle]

Thank you, that's correct. You don't have to break things down to the last nut and bolt to see what they are capable of doing. Just watch more than 2 or 3 games. You would have had to watch this team at every home game plus a few away games....then catch all the rest on TV/radio....to really understand what we have here. You'd have to talk with the kids to see what class they REALLY have. Only an idiot would not be blown away. Someone who is not impressed, and who has only seen a handful of games plus stat sheets, knows squat. Really, those people know jack, regardless of what comes out of their mouth or fingertips.

We are far from done when it comes to making jaws drop and tears squirt. The Bulldogs are the kings-of-the-valley. Just waitin' to see who we slap around next. I hope it's a classless bunch of loud mouth brats. Nothing like shuttin' up the punks. Hello, Boo?


oooookkk.....slow down. What's your "realistic" expectations of Drake in the NCAA tournament, and not the homer view. I want serious responses from all fans, especially Drake fans.

The way some of you are talking, they are sure lock for the final 4 and national championship. I know you are excited, but it would be nice to hear some actual logical and real expectations for this team in the dance.

[gutwrencher]

I know you are excited, but it would be nice to hear some actual logical and real expectations for this team in the dance.


Can't speak for anyone else, but I've been logical and handing out real expectations all year. Is it luck that I've been right? OK....I'll take it.

Drake goes to the Sweet 16, minimum. When that time comes....let's look at who we play and I'll offer more info.

[Hunter]

Can't speak for anyone else, but I've been logical and handing out real expectations all year. Is it luck that I've been right? OK....I'll take it.

Drake goes to the Sweet 16, minimum. When that time comes....let's look at who we play and I'll offer more info.

You guys are plain nuts. I realize that Drake has not been to the NCAA tournament in some time, but I will assume that you have at least watched the tournament over the years. The NCAA tournament is all about matchups. It has nothing to do with how many wins you have or what your seed is. Your success relies solely on the matchups you receive from the selection committee. Saying Drake is going to make the Sweet 16 at this point in time with any degree of certainty is just naive and ignorant. I'm not saying they will or won't make the Sweet 16, but I definitely will wait to make that assessment until Selection Sunday and I know who they are playing.

Bulldog fans, congrats on a great season. You have a lot to be proud of and even if it ends in a first round loss, you still have every reason to be proud of your guys.

[gutwrencher]

You guys are plain nuts.

Thanks! I had a few tell me that back after the Dukies game. I never hear from those people any longer.:no:

Most teams that play Drake in the NCAA's will end up deaf and shell-shocked.

OK, seriously, I expect the Dogs to do, uh......well. Very well.:naughty:

[DoubleJayAlum]

I think Drake could struggle agaist a team with a dominant low post player(s) and maybe even teams with lots of very athletic, quick players. Teams that can exploit Drake's lack of height would have the best chances of beating them IMO.

Drake plays very hard and is very discplined. They will have to be beaten, because they won't beat themselves.

[TreeHugger]

Another important question is: Do the 2007-08 Drake Bulldogs replace the 2004-05 SIU squad as "The Greatest Team in the History of the MVC"?

First, the above is laughable. I've been watching MVC conference games since 1975 and since that time frame the best MVC team was INSU's 1978-79 team. ISU's "Magnificent Seven" would have dominated this years crop of teams like they did in 78'-79'. This team lost only the NCAA championship game but was still "Voted" #1 by coaches and the media.

Now, as for who was better between SIU and this years Drake team, I believe Drake may just be in the same boat as INSU in 78'-79' in that they aren't getting the respect that is due. I am really impressed with this Drake team and believe they are better than the recent SIU teams and I recognize SIU's stellar defense.

If Drake, and that's a big if, continues to hit the three's like they have demonstrated the ability to do, they can play with anybody on any given day. However, that being said, on any given day anybody can beat anybody.

I sincerely hope Drake can play to their potential in the NCAA so that there won't be any of this, "told you so", over rated crap. Drake was definitely deserving of this championship and solidified it in my mind with the beating they put on ILSU in the championship game. I can't remember a MVC championship game that was so lopsided.

Best of luck to the Bulldogs. I'll be pulling for them to represent the Valley well and I hope the Redbirds get a bid giving them the opportunity to rectify their dismal play in the championship game.

:bulldogs::redbirds::valley:

[drakeguy]

You guys are plain nuts. I realize that Drake has not been to the NCAA tournament in some time, but I will assume that you have at least watched the tournament over the years. The NCAA tournament is all about matchups. It has nothing to do with how many wins you have or what your seed is. Your success relies solely on the matchups you receive from the selection committee. \

The thing is that every game is all about match ups. All year the team and the fans have heard this stuff. If you get a team that has a good big man you are in trouble. (Our match up zone helps make that more of a non-issue than you realize) Plus a dominant big man probably has more issues guarding Bucky on the perimeter. The rebound part of that equation, with the threes we take there is a lot of long rebounds. Consequently, that is why all 5 of our guys get multiple boards.

If your threes don't drop you are in trouble. Um, Butler. Drake has four players that shoot the rock at a 33% clip or better in the starting lineup. Rare day that one or two of them aren't hitting, and they are all capable of making 5-6 in a game.

Drake is a rare team where they play so well together, they overcome their weaknesses. They don't shy away from the weaknesses, they play to their strengths, and force others to play to our strengths as well. :bulldogs:
T

[DawgieStyle]

The thing is that every game is all about match ups. All year the team and the fans have heard this stuff. If you get a team that has a good big man you are in trouble. (Our match up zone helps make that more of a non-issue than you realize) Plus a dominant big man probably has more issues guarding Bucky on the perimeter. The rebound part of that equation, with the threes we take there is a lot of long rebounds. Consequently, that is why all 5 of our guys get multiple boards.

If your threes don't drop you are in trouble. Um, Butler. Drake has four players that shoot the rock at a 33% clip or better in the starting lineup. Rare day that one or two of them aren't hitting, and they are all capable of making 5-6 in a game.

Drake is a rare team where they play so well together, they overcome their weaknesses. They don't shy away from the weaknesses, they play to their strengths, and force others to play to our strengths as well. :bulldogs:
T

so how does that translate to the NCAA tournament, where you will face the best teams you faced all year?

Aside from St. Mary's and Butler, which I'll give you props for beating, you haven't played any other NCAA tournament quality teams. It's easy to look gelled and unbeatable agianst average competition.

I'm not saying Drake won't do well in the tournament, they could, but they could get bounced in the first round as well. My honest opinoin is that no one knows how Drake will truly respond to teams who are really good, because frankly they didn't play very many of them. That's not a knock on the valley, but unless you play a 14, 15 or 16 seed, you are going to play a team as good or better than any team in the valley this year.

My main point ist that I think Drake fans are going to be in for a shock at how good the teams will be, even in the first round. Even if it is a 12 seed. The level of competition goes way up now. I don't know what to expect because they haven't played enough games this year against that level of competition.

[gutwrencher]

My main point ist that I think Drake fans are going to be in for a shock at how good the teams will be, even in the first round


No we won't, we are NOT stupid, regardless of the drek that's dished out at this so called basketball forum. And the points you make is what I want. We don't want some "lucky to get in" ***** team in the first or second round......we want somebody with meat. I want no further excuses. I want the Bulldogs to make the point early and double it with each advance.

They will ALL be tough. The Bulldogs will be tougher. Tough enough to advance and shut a few more pieholes.

you are going to play a team as good or better than any team in the valley this year.

I hope better, because the MVC, as you know, was not much of a challenge, was it?:innocent:

[DawgieStyle]

No we won't, we are NOT stupid, regardless of the drek that's dished out at this so called basketball forum. And the points you make is what I want. We don't want some "lucky to get in" ***** team in the first or second round......we want somebody with meat. I want no further excuses. I want the Bulldogs to make the point early and double it with each advance.

They will ALL be tough. The Bulldogs will be tougher. Tough enough to advance and shut a few more pieholes.



I hope better, because the MVC, as you know, was not much of a challenge, was it?:innocent:

gut have you met cold? .... cold, meet gut.

[D Fast]

My main point ist that I think Drake fans are going to be in for a shock at how good the teams will be, even in the first round.

Okay Mr. know it all. How about we let the games play out then you can start yapping about your all knowing mentality of what is college basketball is. Actually I will be more shocked if you ever just shut up. 1/2 the crap you spew is about as Capitan Obvious as you can get

[DawgieStyle]

Okay Mr. know it all. How about we let the games play out then you can start yapping about your all knowing mentality of what is college basketball is. Actually I will be more shocked if you ever just shut up. 1/2 the crap you spew is about as Capitan Obvious as you can get

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p298/Karhak/Forums/1182356006017.jpg

[D Fast]

Exactly....................

http://www.crashonmyhead.com/captain_obvious.jpg

[DawgieStyle]

Okay Mr. know it all. How about we let the games play out then you can start yapping about your all knowing mentality of what is college basketball is. Actually I will be more shocked if you ever just shut up. 1/2 the crap you spew is about as Capitan Obvious as you can get

wow drake fans are a confident little bunch right now. So let's hear it.....how far is Drake going in the dance....


this ought to be good....

PS, not how far you want them to go, no, no....rationally and unbias, how far do think they will go.

[DUBulldog]

wow drake fans are a confident little bunch right now. So let's hear it.....how far is Drake going in the dance....


this ought to be good....

PS, not how far you want them to go, no, no....rationally and unbias, how far do think they will go.

Like so many others have said in this thread, it all depends on the match-ups.

[DawgieStyle]

Like so many others have said in this thread, it all depends on the match-ups.

and I totally agree.....it's just that some of your fellow fan base are acting like Wichita fans pre January 2007.

[DUBulldog]

and I totally agree.....it's just that some of your fellow fan base are acting like Wichita fans pre January 2007.

Some of the younger guys are a little overly enthusiastic......but, I like it, however naive they might be. To be fair, I can understand how it would be annoying to fans of the other 9 MVC schools.

[DawgieStyle]

actually what I want to know is if Baller is going to call out all the new and young drake posters as band wagon fans like he does to SIU fans, or is he going to prove that he only does that because of his hate for SIU.

[Dawg_tired]

now that I have that other issue taken care of........my comment on this thread.....:lol:

They haven't even played a tournament game yet, and we're talking about Drake being better than last years SIU? :lol:

God, the blue kool-aid is flowing today....:lol:

Play a tournament game first, win it, and we'll talk about it.

Stool. Who was MVP of the tournament?

Who won?

You were wrong on both counts. Have a nice day.

[WSUfan]

how far do think they will go.

NCAA title + NBA title !! (j/k) :bulldogs: :redbirds: :valley:

[D Fast]

wow drake fans are a confident little bunch right now. So let's hear it.....how far is Drake going in the dance....


this ought to be good....

PS, not how far you want them to go, no, no....rationally and unbias, how far do think they will go.

Well since I don't know what our match ups are going to be yet I have no idea.

To the comment of new fans. I have been going to games since 1981 so I'm nowhere new.

[Dawg_tired]

Well since I don't know what our match ups are going to be yet I have no idea.

To the comment of new fans. I have been going to games since 1981 so I'm nowhere new.

Don't worry Dfast. Dawgie STool is nowhere smart.

[Keita44]

Hey Dawgie....I'll bet you that Drake goes farther than SIU does this year.....:innocent:

[upsaluki]

Personally, I hope Drake makes it as far as they can. The sweet sixteen is very realistic depending on the draw and match ups.
I don't think they beat last year's Salukis though. They didn't sweep the Salukis squad this year, and our team was a shadow of itself. Brave2001 also gave a very good run down of how last year's SIU team was statistically better. I sure wish we still had Tatum and Young to find out. :naughty:

[gutwrencher]

wow drake fans are a confident little bunch right now

You're a few months late with that. Some of us "know-nothings" have been bubbling with confidence since 4-1. And for good reason....not that we pulled it out of our *** because there was nothing better to do.:naughty:

actually what I want to know is if Baller is going to call out all the new and young drake posters as band wagon fans

Actually, people started pulling that crap months ago. Trying to rip up long time fans and accuse them of being bandwagon failed. Post totals on this board mean zipola. What's new? What's young? Who's in charge here?

http://www.clicksmilies.com/s1106/cool/cool-smiley-027.gif

[gutwrencher]

I don't think they beat last year's Salukis though. They didn't sweep the Salukis squad this year, and our team was a shadow of itself. Brave2001 also gave a very good run down of how last year's SIU team was statistically better. I sure wish we still had Tatum and Young to find out. :naughty:

It's impossible to tell. I mean last year....you DID have the 2 studs in full force, and WE had a group that was nowhere near as good as the current squad. SIU had a hell of a time at the Knapp last year and did not win until the very end. Yup....it would be fun to have this years Drake team and last years Saluki gang. I'm guessing we would play 10 times and win every other game to go .500.

[DawgieStyle]

You're a few months late with that. Some of us "know-nothings" have been bubbling with confidence since 4-1. And for good reason....not that we pulled it out of our *** because there was nothing better to do.:naughty:



Actually, people started pulling that crap months ago. Trying to rip up long time fans and accuse them of being bandwagon failed. Post totals on this board mean zipola. What's new? What's young? Who's in charge here?

http://www.clicksmilies.com/s1106/cool/cool-smiley-027.gif

I have no problem if new Drake fans come on board, the more the merrier. The post was a shot at Baller, not Drake fans. He LOVES to rail on new or old siu fans who come back to VT after they win, calling them band wagon fans. I just hope he isn't a hypocrite and provides your new buddies, the same courtesy.

[DawgieStyle]

You're a few months late with that. Some of us "know-nothings" have been bubbling with confidence since 4-1. And for good reason....not that we pulled it out of our *** because there was nothing better to do.:naughty:



Actually, people started pulling that crap months ago. Trying to rip up long time fans and accuse them of being bandwagon failed. Post totals on this board mean zipola. What's new? What's young? Who's in charge here?

http://www.clicksmilies.com/s1106/cool/cool-smiley-027.gif

also, I don't mind if you are confident, Because that's how I post as well. What I mind is the arrogance, which isn't confidence. If you weren't on the board a few years ago, you won't understand. You are acting like some shocker fans around Dec. of 2006. Trust me, you don't want to be that guy.

[gutwrencher]

I have no problem if new Drake fans come on board, the more the merrier. The post was a shot at Baller, not Drake fans. He LOVES to rail on new or old siu fans who come back to VT after they win, calling them band wagon fans. I just hope he isn't a hypocrite and provides your new buddies, the same courtesy.


Yeah, baller shot me a few rounds of cyberfist a few times back early on....but he never pushed it past that. Once I made it clear that I was not a new type of bandwagon fan....things cooled down right away.:innocent:

The war with SIU fans, well, I'll stay out of that as I have no problems with their fanbase. I've met some pretty cool Saluki fans at the Knapp. Now Jay fans....that's a whole 'nother bag-of-snakes......:no:.

[gutwrencher]

What I mind is the arrogance

Well, that would be the first time I've been called that, but I see your point. I've been called confident and passionate....but some people read me one way....others another way. They can judge if they want, but it's pointless. I'm not arrogant because while I live up my team, which I know very well, I also leave plenty of room for praise twords other teams and fans and share it often.

But, I am who I am and the thing you can trust is, I've been the same Bulldog fan since '78....and believe me, I stated when we sucked and stunk up the place too so no problem there.....:original:

[DawgieStyle]

and before any says it, I'm not arrogant, I'm just an a-hole.

[Dawg_tired]

and before any says it, I'm not arrogant, I'm just an a-hole.

Right again. Damn. Twice in one month.

[cantbeatthejays]

It's impossible to tell. I mean last year....you DID have the 2 studs in full force, and WE had a group that was nowhere near as good as the current squad. SIU had a hell of a time at the Knapp last year and did not win until the very end. Yup....it would be fun to have this years Drake team and last years Saluki gang. I'm guessing we would play 10 times and win every other game to go .500.


Are you talking about the same SIU team that won the Valley and made the S16 in one of top Valley years of all time?

Or a Drake team that won the worst Valley in 10, 12 years?


You have to take that into consideration.


I would say that that SIU would win 7, 8 times outta 10

[cantbeatthejays]

nm

[gutwrencher]

Are you talking about the same SIU team that won the Valley and made the S16 in one of top Valley years of all time?

Or a Drake team that won the worst Valley in 10, 12 years?


You have to take that into consideration.


I would say that that SIU would win 7, 8 times outta 10

Well, it would be fun to watch those games, yes? A real slugfest with 2 radical styles. Great stuff. Maybe we could break out the video games and do battle. Would have to play one on one via real people though...the computer opponent would have SIU stealing and blocking everything.:fear::lol:

[drakeguy]

Well, that would be the first time I've been called that, but I see your point. I've been called confident and passionate....but some people read me one way....others another way.

The way I read gutwrencher, from going to games and sitting at bars watching the other. Intense, confident, passionate, crazy in love with the Bulldogs, dedicated, and going dancing as a fan!:bulldogs:

[drakeguy]

Its tough to predict how far the team will go, when we don't even know where they are going and who they are playing. However, their style of play takes a lot of prep work to figure out. Hence, most teams played Drake tougher the second time around. The first round teams will have a decent amount of time to prep for us, the second not much at all. I am not overly worried about the first round, unless we get totally hosed on seeding. Whether it be 4,5,6 Drake should come out rested and just play their game. What I like about the second game is the fact that there is less than 48 hours to prepare for Drake's style.

At the end of the day I am not a basketball expert, but as a fan I like our chances. :bulldogs:

[WSUbballer]

wow drake fans are a confident little bunch right now.

Well, let's see..

They're 28-4.
They're ranked 16th and 18th in the country.
They just blistered the conference's second best team by 30 on national tv.
They just became the first conference regular season champion to cruise through for a conference tournament championship in the Valley in 10 years.

Ya, I'd say they have a bit of a reason to be confident right now..

I'd say their confidence is a little more realistic and legitimate than SIU's fans calling for Final Fours for this year and in 2011..

Your jealousy is overwhelming. Get over it, sore loser.

[WSUbballer]

and I totally agree.....it's just that some of your fellow fan base are acting like Wichita fans pre January 2007.

Or like SIU fans of 2005, or 2007, or pre November 2007..

Of course your focus is on WSU..

Aren't you starting to do the same thing you claim I am doing? How ironic..

[WSUbballer]

Oh, and in regards to the topic, not only is Drake better, they're A LOT more fun to watch. I'm sure the nation agrees with this as well.. :yes:

[upsaluki]

It's impossible to tell. I mean last year....you DID have the 2 studs in full force, and WE had a group that was nowhere near as good as the current squad. SIU had a hell of a time at the Knapp last year and did not win until the very end. Yup....it would be fun to have this years Drake team and last years Saluki gang. I'm guessing we would play 10 times and win every other game to go .500.
I still give the edge to our old team. We beat you guys three times last year. Once this year. I would guess last year's team would have the edge over Drake's team this year. I hope they make a deep run and represent the valley as well or better than last year's Salukis though.

[DawgieStyle]

Or like SIU fans of 2005, or 2007, or pre November 2007..

Of course your focus is on WSU..

Aren't you starting to do the same thing you claim I am doing? How ironic..

as much as I'd like to get in another pissing match with you, for the sake of all the other posters, sick of us getting into all the time, I'll just let the actions of either fan base from those time periods speak for themselves and let everyone else decide. I'm pretty comfortable in knowing the outcome of that.

as for your other post about Drake being more fun to watch, balblablab. Since when did pretty basketball have anything to do with winning basketball? Maybe if teams and specifically hot shot players spent more time worrying about winning, and not how they are going to look on sports center, their teams wouldn't be sitting at home in March like so many of them are.

I would have thought SIU, over the last 6 year, achieved plenty of media recognition, respect, etc. by winning, even if it wasn't pretty to watch.

Winning is pretty, how you do it is a bunch of fluff.

[MetDrakeFan]

as much as I'd like to get in another pissing match with you, for the sake of all the other posters, sick of us getting into all the time, I'll just let the actions of either fan base from those time periods speak for themselves and let everyone else decide. I'm pretty comfortable in knowing the outcome of that.

as for your other post about Drake being more fun to watch, balblablab. Since when did pretty basketball have anything to do with winning basketball? Maybe if teams and specifically hot shot players spent more time worrying about winning, and not how they are going to look on sports center, their teams wouldn't be sitting at home in March like so many of them are.

I would have thought SIU, over the last 6 year, achieved plenty of media recognition, respect, etc. by winning, even if it wasn't pretty to watch.

Winning is pretty, how you do it is a bunch of fluff.

I thoroughly enjoyed watching SIU last year. Their defense was a thing to behold, and Tatum and Young's heroics were inspiring. I don't really get why ppl say they were a pain to watch.

Is Drake as good as SIU was last year? Who can say? For some reason, Drake usually played SIU tough, even when they were having their down years. This team seems to be different. Here's what I'm hoping. I'm hoping they do better in the NCAA's than SIU did, and that would really be SWEET!

[DoubleJayAlum]

To the comment of new fans. I have been going to games since 1981 so I'm nowhere new.

That may be true, but you never chose to post here until Drake experienced its best year in the entire period that you have been attending games. The "new fans" comment was made in response to the new Drake posters to this board. "Bandwagoners" has been a recurring topic here since before you started to post here....

[D Fast]

That may be true, but you never chose to post here until Drake experienced its best year in the entire period that you have been attending games. The "new fans" comment was made in response to the new Drake posters to this board. "Bandwagoners" has been a recurring topic here since before you started to post here....

Actually I had a diff UN last year but I forgot what it was and had to create a new one this year so this is my second year on here. QQ more kthxbi

[Ricky Del Rio]

My answer to the thread question is as follows:

Drake is better than the '06-'07 SIU team.

After watching Drake in St. Louis, I was converted from heathan to Bulldog.

When I look at individual Bull Dog players, I am not overwhelmed. When I look at the assembled parts, I am impressed.

It is easy to lay out a blue print for defeating Drake, but it is hard to do.

Drake is solid. Drake reminds me of some of the solid characteristics of past CU and UNI teams.

[Brave2001]

Drake is solid. Drake reminds me of some of the solid characteristics of past CU and UNI teams.

So that means they wont get past the first round? :lol::lol::lol:

Sorry, I had to.

I fully expect Drake to win at least their first game.

[gutwrencher]

I still give the edge to our old team. We beat you guys three times last year. Once this year. I would guess last year's team would have the edge over Drake's team this year. I hope they make a deep run and represent the valley as well or better than last year's Salukis though.

Thanks, upsaluki.....a "deep" run sure would be a fun ride to be on. I think it's going to go a ways but this waiting to find out who and where is killin me.:ermm:

[upsaluki]

Thanks, upsaluki.....a "deep" run sure would be a fun ride to be on. I think it's going to go a ways but this waiting to find out who and where is killin me.:ermm:
Savor it. It's way better than waiting to see if you get a home game in the NIT. I'm hoping you guys get a nice seed. Getting a six or below can really set you up to make a deep push, then it's all match ups. Should be fun. I'm hoping the Redbirds sneak in also. I'm worried we'll be a one bid league.

[sidogfan]

When the tournament starts. I will be cheering for Drake at the top of my lungs. They`re a lotta fun to watch and I`ve been an mvc fan for several years. This is a team that can make a deep run. I think the final ap pole will tell the tale. Last year SIU Was ranked no 11 in the final poll. Drake? We`ll see!

[gutwrencher]

It's way better than waiting to see if you get a home game in the NIT. I'm hoping you guys get a nice seed.

True that....and thanks!

I too hope the Redbirds get in. The Bulldogs prevented them from getting a tear going on Sunday....I doubt they stink up the place again. When they are on, they are a fun group to watch. Regardless of how I feel about OE during the Drake/Redbirds games.....he's damn fun to watch play.

:bulldogs::redbirds::valley::valley:

[vnomus2]

Drake had a very good year, but no they aren't as good as 06-07 Siu.

[WSUbballer]

Drake had a very good year, but no they aren't as good as 06-07 Siu.

What a ballsy statement to make.. after the fact..

:no: