Preview and Open Game Day Thread: Texas Tech v. Baylor

v.

The Numbers:

Keys to the Game:

1. Don't Get Overwhelmed Early: It's going to be very easy to get somewhat overwhelmed tonight. With Bob Knight's resignation and this being Pat's first game, it's probably going to be a roller coster of emotion for these guys. Zeno, Roberson and Voskuil have got to show that they are the leaders to this team and slow it down. Play your game, etc. I think Texas Tech was lucky on Saturday when they were able to beat OSU without Zeno and Voskuil's normal production. Tonight, they all have to be there, in addition to Roberson and Singletary.
2. Create Mismatches: It always seems like it's Texas Tech that is adjusting to an opponent, but I'd love to see the three guard offense listed below and better yet, I'd love to see Martin Zeno take advantage of Bruce along the baseline all night long. I don't think it's any secret that Baylor will have an advantage in the backcourt with Dugat and Jerrells over Roberson and Voskuil, but Zeno is the key to potentially creating some tough matchups for Baylor
3. Contain Rogers: Cook, Suljagic, Rizvic and hopefully Roberts are going to have to keep Rogers in check. I'm not to worried about Loomers and Diene, but I am worried about Rogers taking full advantage of the Red Raider frontcourt. Keep him off the boards and do not, I repeat, do not let him get dunk-happy. Foul him, or do what ever needs to be done to make sure that Rogers doesn't get on track.

Probable Starting Lineups:

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GO RAIDERS . . .

*Stats can be found Ken Pomeroy, via Basketball Prospectus: K.P. Rank = the Ken Pomeroy Rank; Offensive Efficiency = the national rank in terms of points scored per 100 possessions; Defensive Efficiency = the national rank in terms of points allowed per 100 possession. Numbers in parentheses are national rank.