re: Alabama Vs Michigan S16 Chat

I've seen Michigan play on TV 3 times this season other than the NCAA tournament. The first 1/2 of the year they looked like a Saban version basketball squad - they were physically mauling everyone as well as dropping 3-point buckets all over the place. They absolutely looked unbeatable. Purdue beat them in the Big 10 tourney by spreading the ball around using great passing, driving and kicking out to an open player. It looked like Purdue wore Michigan out physically - plus MI didn't hit their usual number of 3's.

So to beat the big beasts Alabama has to run - run - run, then pass effectively all around the perimeter while shooting at least 40% from behind the line. Then get back on defense - get in their face defensively, like they did with Texas Tech. There is no way Alabama can match up with their size, even if Williamson undergoes a metamorphosis and roughs up their 7' 4" bruiser. I think Bama's backcourt is far superior, and can do damage by moving the ball constantly and wearing Michigan down. That is what Purdue did. It also helps if MI has an off-night shooting from outside.

I think the Tide will play poised and I expect them to play with confidence on Friday. I agree with HWYMAN that Coach Oats looks more comfortable in this environment which helps the team play more loose and with less pressure.

No one, other than a few of us Tide fans, even think Bama can win this coming game. Remember, if you are old enough, that no one thought Villanova in 1985 could beat Georgetown and Patrick Ewing, but shooting 78% for the game kind of evened the playing field! I just pray Alabama can play their best, which is all we can ask for.