The difference was the pressure, they forced something like 18 turnovers and completely dominated in the paint.
I wasn't going to watch this game, damned if JJ didn't breathe a little hope into me with this win. Are they going to keep it going? I was questioning Simmons heart, but he showed heart tonight.
I think he is realizing that he is going to have to be 1A instead of always passing the ball. But when Vandy doubled him he was able to dish and LSU hit shots. That's what it's gonna take because the longer we get into the season the more double teams he will see and if LSU can't hit shots when Simmons is doubled, this team is going nowhere.
He's starting to draw a lot of fouls too, and he is getting a lot of benefit calls that star players in the NBA get.
What was interesting to me is that when Simmons was out late with the cramping, both Victor and Quarterman were suddenly more aggressive, looking to score. That same fire is needed when Simmons is out there, too, not just watching what he's going to do.
Blakeney and Sampson have to find their outside shots. Hornsby is pretty reliable but there has to be more than that one option for Simmons to kick it out to. Quarterman continues to find ways to contribute even when he's not scoring. Victor has been a nice addition down low; gives the Tigers some toughness they desperately needed. edit: The announcers like to talk about the number of scouts that are at the games to watch Simmons. Anyone else think Hornsby might catch of few of their eyes before the season is over? Not just shooting; his all-around game is getting better and better.
this team played defense. and team defense. they flipped a switch for one game at least when sec began. maybe they dont want to be called the softest team ive ever seen label. bc they were.
very nice effort and result. (very surprised that lsu has won 5 straight vs Vandy) looks like the guards, minus hornsby, don't know what to do with bs playing point. good rebounding teams are going to be a problem.
