X Factor that worries me here.....
is the situation with Iowa's head coach's son. It is very hard to gauge whether his boys will be distracted or motivated by the circumstances involved here. Yes Tennessee played Florida tough and finished the season like a team wanting more, but you can't discount Iowa because of this strange situation with the coach's boy. Not trying to be a devil's advocate here, just being rhetorical and would like to hear your thoughts on this subject. Dante I really do appreciate your input...my account has appreciated also!:aktion033
is the situation with Iowa's head coach's son. It is very hard to gauge whether his boys will be distracted or motivated by the circumstances involved here. Yes Tennessee played Florida tough and finished the season like a team wanting more, but you can't discount Iowa because of this strange situation with the coach's boy. Not trying to be a devil's advocate here, just being rhetorical and would like to hear your thoughts on this subject. Dante I really do appreciate your input...my account has appreciated also!:aktion033
his son's health situation didn't do anything for the team last Thurs vs Northwestern.
reason to play Tenn - they finished the season strong whereas Iowa backed in to the tourney, like Dan said two teams going in different directions. Iowa has looked completely listless since the home loss to Wisconsin. they haven't looked like they even want to be there... it's a night and day difference from the beginning/middle of the season. you'd think after an 8 year absence from the tourney, Iowa's fanbase and players would be more excited, but they aren't.
reason to play Iowa - getting out of the Big 10 might just be their elixir. aside from Michigan, every team that Iowa played twice this year beat them the second time around. a new opponent might be the only thing that turns them around as far as attitude and mentality.
I wouldn't touch this game mainly because Iowa's psyche is so unpredictable. if they show up and play to their potential, they'll win. if they don't (which is what I'm expecting), they'll lose. Tenn or pass.
I agree with your reasoning here Teddy, but the Iowa/NW game is a completely different animal than this game tonight. The actual surgery on the boy is a different situation also...for me it very hard to bet this game too for the same reason you gave as to the teams mental outlook on this game. Good discussion...now Dante where in the hell are you at?
