The Big Boys Are in Town

by Jordan Loperena 3/13/09


INDIANAPOLIS, IN - In the 2nd day of Big Ten Tournament Action, the big boys came out to play and did so in impressive fashion. An Illinois team that suffered a stunning and potentailly momentum stopping loss to Penn State for the second time this year to wrap up their Big Ten regular season showed that they were here to play. A Michigan team that knocked down 70% of its shots from the field against our Iowa Hawkeyes yesterday was held to 33% from the field. That was basically the story as a late run from Michigan wasn't enough but at least closed the gap to make the final score look respectable as the Illini took this one: Illinois 60- Michigan 50.

Ohio State took care of Wisconsin in a 61-57 behind Evan Turner's 19 points. Dallas Lauderdale and B.J. Mullens were able to control things down low as they held Wisconsin's Joe Krabbenhoft to 4 points. The Badgers put three players in double digits but that wasn't enough as Ohio State wrapped this one up in the final minutes.

Michigan State takes care of Minnesota with no problem as they were firing on all cylinders. They never quite let Minnesota have a chance and the more interesting game going on during this time slot feautred the ACC Tournament. Virginia Tech lost to UNC in the final minute and caputred a lot of attention at the local Hooters - not that I was there, just happened to hear it from a little local birdie.

Purdue also put Penn State away early and never let them in to the game. Talor Battle was contained in the first half and Penn state never had a chance. A disappointing day if you were looking to catch some upsets, but one thing was made apparent to me. There are some teams here that don't belong on the bubble. They should either be in the tournament with no bubble talk or have their bubble burst.

As of today
In - Ohio State, Michigan (Despite the loss)
Out - Penn State (looked like they rely way too much on one player and don't appear to have much depth)
Bubble - Minnesota, Wisconsin (remained competitive but a loss to an unranked team could hurt. If Ohio State knocks off Michigan State this loss may be less harmful).