Some interesting quotes from Robinson today:
[Robinson] told me this week that he may have finally settled on his starting lineup for the rest of the season. He didn't put it up to a popular vote, but he did talk to his players.
Keep in mind, Robinson doesn't attach much importance to who starts. If somebody comes off the bench and tears it up, he gets more minutes.
So tonight at the Galen Center OSU will throw out a starting five consisting of two freshmen and three sophomores for the third straight game: Jared Cunningham and Ahmad Starks at G, Burton and Devon Collier at forward and Brandt in the middle. … with the calvary right behind in the form of Omari, Calvin, and Roberto.
The only real issue I have is Joe "the big injun that could not" Burton starting. Now that Collier has established himself, why not put Roberto Nelson in there? Robinson had this to say on the subject:
Robinson said Nelson – who had nearly a two year layoff from real games – "is working hard to break out of his slump (27 percent from the floor last five games) and that Burton needs to relax and just make plays. His offense will come.
"I remember how bad it was last year when he had four or five turnovers a game,'' said Robinson. "I don't feel as nervous when he has the ball in his hands as I did last year.''
Really? I feel more nervous than ever. Burton is like a pastry chef doling out the turnovers.
One other thing to keep an eye on: Jared Cunningham has gotten a free pass the past three games. Robinson mentions that Nelson is riding the pine because he's shooting 27% over his past five games. Well, Cunningham is shooting 27% over his past three, only making six field goals in that span.
The line on this game is -11.5, Trojans. That's a smidge high. Think two possession game, something like 69-63 Trojans. This is definitely a winnable game, though. One we should expect them to win, which is why it won't happen.
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