THE BENCH MOB

[Freak]

I don't think our defense is that bad. I think Pearl overplays and gambles a lot due to our lack of size. That's going to lead to us giving up some easy baskets. I also think we know we are going to give up a few easy baskets on our press. Bottom line is that I think we could win games scoring in the 60s but it is not Pearls style and it's not near as fun to watch.

Could our defense be better? Absolutely, but I think the effort is there, we are getting the steals, and the we are forcing a lot of turnovers. That's good defense.

 

[rwemyss]

I'll grant you that on the steals Freak. Each steal that creates say, an open three is as much as a 6 point turnaround (on the assumption that the other team could have made a three on that possession). Point being, every steal we get takes a possesion away from the other offense, which could be determined to be good defense, by not having to play it. Our best defense is to get steals and stay on offense, however, you can't argue that this team couldn't compete very well in a conventional game. Coach Pearl's scheme plays to our team's strengths, and tries to cover their weaknesses.

I still don't think we could win a game by scoring in the 60s... the other team would have to shoot as poorly as WVU did the other night to lose to Marshall.

 

[Freak]

I don't know, if we are shooting the ball well, I think we could compete in a "conventional game" in the 60s, I really do.

 

[Volunteer]

How about this theory?

Tennessee's defense is dictated by the fast up and down the floor. The only team who truly beat UT is LSU, they were able to muscle UT, slow the game down, make it a half court game and basically made UT play their style..The losses to OSU and Memphis was a result of being out-talented.

Pearl MAKES the other team adjust to HIS style of play. THAT is why UT is winning.

Go back to the point of the thread, it is imperative that the bench deliver quality minutes and you can't argue that Smith, Patterson/Asumnu, Howell and Childress give quality minutes and even points needed when the starters are either struggling or are not efficient.

USC will be a hell of a game tomorrow.