Let's do this.
.png)
I'll be honest, before last Saturday I did not know where James Madison University was located. I knew they were a great team, one that planted itself atop the rankings weeks ago, but I didn't know for sure where they played. After learning last Saturday we'd be facing them in the semis I said something along the lines of "Where the hell is James Madison even? I bet it's someplace with a lot of fast people... like Virginia." A Google search confirmed the location and Rodney Landers confirms the fast part. While Landers' unshed tears may cure cancer, this has never been a one-man game. The Griz have the makeup of a team capable of pulling this off.
ESPN hoops analyst Digger Phelps always talks about undefeated teams needing to lose a game, just to know what it's like. This team, and this program, needed to lose that game to Weber State. They have the invaluable experience of paying for their idiotic mistakes. Not everything can be overcome with talent. Talent was something past teams relied too much upon, they didn't seem to have the look of a championship team. Here's what I wrote about this year's Griz team back in September:
Of the four Griz teams I've seen since coming on campus with the 2005 squad, I'd pick this team to make it to Chattanooga over any of those. It's not about talent, it's about having the attitude and confidence. This team has it.
I stand by that statement. There's something with this team, something different. They have the necessary swagger but also stay honest. They're focused. This team is not going to be intimidated by anyone.
The Griz play smart disciplined football. Stopping Rodney Landers won't be the responsibility of one stud linebacker. It'll be about knowing assignments, reading the play and not overpursuing. It'll be a team defensive effort. Same with the offensive side of the ball. We're not going to pound it over and over again with Chase Reynolds. Cole won't key in on Mariani. Why not? Because we'll lose if they do that. That and because we're balanced.
This is a good team with the potential to be a great one. We find out tonight if this team is as special as I think. Let's do it Griz.
Photo credit: Adrienne Barnett for Montanagrizzlies.com
Go grizzs. From ASU grad, fan & season ticket holder. Enjoy your trip to Nooga. Class of 75.
Bd
Wow! Colin you hit the proverbial nail on the head here. The Grizzlies did EXACTLY what you said they needed to do and now we get to enjoy another Griz game this season. On to Chattanooga! Go Griz!!!
i'll give you credit, colin. you thought this team had it when no one else did. after losing lex, kroy, all the lbs, the corners and carp it seemed like the team was prime for a down year. who'da thunk they'd be going this time 'round.