Defense:
- Keep everything in front, A&M isn't going to rain threes, they're streaky and going for steals/giving up penetration is only going to play into their hands. If there is someone I'm worried about this game, it's Hogg. He is going to get some looks, if they go in, OU may be in a bit of conundrum.
- Lattin/Spangler stay out of foul trouble (see above), giving up penetration is going to hurt these two, especially Spangler.
- Limit Davis' touches within 10ft, he's too big of load especially if McNeace plays, who struggled against him in HS. Actually don't mind Spangler guarding Davis, he is a below the rim player on most possessions and doesn't elevate , let Lattin patrol the paint from the weak-side.
- Keep the ball in Caruso's hands as much as possible. He is their worst player but plays a ton of minutes and is getting too much praise. The more he dribbles, the worse A&M is on that end of the floor.
Offense:
- Get Buddy moving off the ball early and in space, will force the refs to make a decision on how much contact is allowed.
- Push the ball in transition, A&M wants to slow the pace, their advantage is inside, so keeping the Bigs fresh is paramount. How well OU's guards rebound will be key for the offense, puts A&M on their heels going the other way.
- Get Spangler/Lattin some touches inside, I don't expect much from this in the way of points, but it forces A&M to collapse. Any ball movement OU can muster will help because we know that's not a strength.
- And the obvious, make jump shots. All of the above is negated if OU doesn't make tough jumpers, that's how they've won games all year. This team can only go as far as Hield/Cousins/Woodard carry them.
A&M had their one shining moment last week, all of the attention has been on them (rightfully so, that was nuts). How do they respond? They're seniors haven't been where our seniors have and OU has the best player on the floor. Buddy is getting attention but it's nothing he and OU haven't seen all year. Stick with the old money.
Sooners by 5.
