Illinois vs. tOSU

Tonight @ 6pm

It was sad to see Meyers Leonard crying on the Illini bench during the 2nd half of Saturday's loss to the Nebraska Cornhuskers.  During moments like that, you realize that the team you live and die for is filled with 17-22 year old kids.  Leonard was frustrated in his performance, and he was disappointed that his team was not going to make the NCAA tournament.

In the same way, I it is also hard to watch Coach Weber go down the way he has in the last 2 weeks.  We all remember his perseverance in winning over the Illini players and fans during his first season with the Illini, and the magical journey he took us on the following year.  No one can discount his accomplishments after the fact.  I don't believe that any coach could have pulled more out of our 04-05 team than he did.  Weber deserved his National Coach of the Year Award in 2005, and he also deserves our respect and cheers as he ends the season.

Illinois vs. tOSU


It took a 43 point Herculean effort from Brandon Paul to knock off the Muckeye's earlier this year, and the way the Illini are playing, I'm doubtful that lightening will strike twice.  According to my supermarket statistician, Todd Persky, Meyers Leonard hasn't scored in double figures in three game.  Leonard was up to the task the last time he played the Jared Sullinger, and the Buckeyes were content to let the two play heads up.  I expect Myers to come out inspired today and play with some passion.

No matter what the Illini do, though, I'm not sure that it is going to be enough to compete with the Muckeyes.  Sullinger, William Buford and DeShaun Thomas are a scary combination - especially playing at home.

Illinois - 59
Muckeyes - 68

Sincerely,
One More Chance - The Big Ten Tournament