Post Reply to McGraw's Bench

This is not a vent board or any other kind of therapy. Before you hit the POST button, ask yourself if your contribution will add to the level of discussion going on.

Important notes on articles:

Handle:
Password:
Subject:

Message:

HTTP Link (optional):

Poster's Email (optional):

 


Post being replied to

I wouldn't be too sure about that by cbiebel

The whole "averaging 80 ppg" thing really only started about 7 years ago, and ND hasn't had a serious graduation loss like we just had in that time period.

Remember when McGraw talked about "emphasizing defense?" The last time she talked about that so much, particularly after losing a lot of seniors, was after 2001. From 2000-01 to 2008-09 ND averaged over 72 ppg just once (76.2 ppg in 2007-08). In those 10 seasons ND averaged scoring in the 60s six times. The first time ND averaged over 70 ppg after the 2001 season (when, BTW, they averaged 65.4 ppg) was 2006-07, and they averaged just 70.1 ppg that season. So ND had 6 straight seasons when the season averaged scoring was in the 60s.

Don't get me wrong. While I do believe that experience is very important and a higher predictor of success, ND can have the talent to win a ton this year (or it could be a rebuilding year). However, I wouldn't hold my breath about them doing it with tons of scoring. ND will be winning with defense.