TCU - How do We Handle Them?

**LoboLaw** · 03-02-2010

Time to start talking a little TCU, folks. Just checking out their season stats, they're actually not looking too bad on paper. There's one glaring difference between them and UNM, and that's the total points averages (as well as points per shot). TCU averages something like 66 points per game, while UNM is at around 77. This is particularly interesting when one considers that TCU's field goal percentage is actually slightly higher than UNM's at 44.2% versus 44.0%. UNM shoots the three better at about 37% to 34%, but doesn't have too many more attempts on the year than TCU.

What this tells me is that TCU is simply a less efficient team than UNM; despite similar shooting numbers, UNM takes care of the ball better and gets better results on a per possession basis than TCU. In terms of beating them, it means limiting turnovers, maximizing second chance looks, and forcing TCU into empty possessions. In terms of actual players, I think it means tight defense on the permiter to limit Moss's touches and deny him open looks from behind the arc. Buljan needs to be boxed out effectively on both the offensive and defensive ends of the floor. UNM definitely holds a team advantage in rebounding, but Buljan can definitely cut into that margin if he's not denied good post position by our bigs.

In a nutshell, I see TCU as a team that's capable of playing a very strong game, but the key is to really disrupt their offensive momentum and keep them playing inefficient basketball. Create enough separation on the scoreboard, and the rest will likely take care of itself.

Thoughts?

**LoboColo** · 03-02-2010

Nice job LoboLaw. This team will take care of business on Ro's night. Count on it.

**LoboDogg** · 03-02-2010

As always, the key at home for us is to get out and run... So, defensive stops and quick outlets.

**txlobo95** · 03-02-2010

hopefully by 20+. We need a big blow-out to impress the committe for a better seed and so all fans can fully enjoy Ro's Sr night!

**Remus Lupin** · 03-02-2010

TCU is a good team, but they do not go as deep as Los Lobos. If our team maintains a high level of concentration and intensity, how can they not win this game?

I hope the staff is able to get the players into the game who have not been used much lately. I really believe they will need CD, JF, and CA to provide sparks and relief in the MW and NCAA tourneys.

**feez** · 03-02-2010

No more nerves please!

**LoboLaw** · 03-02-2010

Tx - couldn't agree more. I need a nice, relaxing blowout in my life! That's why I zeroed in on TCU's lack of offensive efficiency. Get them in a nice, deep hole, and it's very unlikely that they find any way of climbing back out.

**Mohawk Dude** · 03-02-2010

How do we handle TCU? Beat them like we have beaten every team this year. I'm not worried. We will take care of business for sure.

**RSALoboGal** · 03-02-2010

Yes please - no nailbiters - I have no nails left to give to this game =)

**LoboCubs23** · 03-02-2010

We beat them by 20 and Coach Alford earns even more of my respect by calling Buljan a Pee

ing Crap Face

**LoboLaw** · 03-02-2010

Hahahaha, Cubs! Wasn't it Noodles last year who told him to stop wearing NBA socks until he had the chops to actually make the association?

**Ltlf** · 03-02-2010

Need to cut down on turnovers from the first game.

DH had 5. DG had 4.

I doubt if those are season highs for either, but that is a lot for those two guys.

Our bigs both got into foul trouble there too. Buljan was in the dog house, didn't start, and only played 25 minutes. Cerina came in and was a load when we tried to get to the basket, but was an offensive liability. He was only 1-7 from the field and 0-2 from the line. (He tried and missed 2 threes.)

**Mohawk Dude** · 03-02-2010

Originally Posted by LoboCubs23

We beat them by 20 and Coach Alford earns even more of my respect by calling Buljan a Pee

ing Crap Face

lol good stuff! ha ha

**RustyTX** · 03-02-2010

Originally Posted by LoboLaw

Tx - couldn't agree more. I need a nice, relaxing blowout in my life! That's why I zeroed in on TCU's lack of offensive efficiency. Get them in a nice, deep hole, and it's very unlikely that they find any way of climbing back out.

One more thing...They are not a very disciplined team which is kinda surprising considering Christiansen is coach who demands it. By disciplined I mean they don't really follow the plays laid out before them...ie they don't execute well. the lobos should be able to exploit that. They are also not great rebounders. If we outrebound them we will do well. We also need to limit Ross to small number of shots. he's not a good shooter but he a prolific scorer (does that make sense??). Limit the number of shots he takes and he won't score much.

**wolf1960** · 03-02-2010

THE BELL TOLLS the fans go krazy ITS SENIOR NIGHT We go off on the froggies... Altitude problems at 1 mile high....
we run and shoot nothing but net...

**Garishwolf** · 03-02-2010

One bite at a time.............lol

**Zoukmaster** · 03-02-2010

Win the battle on the boards, first. That will help the Lobos be more efficient with their possessions. Also take advantage of TCU's lack of discipline and force turnovers. They don't have the guns to shoot with us, so it's limiting opportunities and taking care of our own. Easy formula for a victory.