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GAME 18 OHIO STATE: MAG- NIF-NSYNC

bac2therac

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Just another night in the Big 10, was it every in doubt?

Hard to zero in on any one particular theme today since this was a true team win with just everybody contributing to this wonderful hard fought victory. Yet it always seems to come back to the spinning wheel that Pikiell has constructed in Piscataway. Rutgers success this year revolves around it being "in sync" Not the greatest recruits, certainly not the most prolific of shooters or offenses. Yet probably the most relentless and unforgiving defenses in the country. There is no program in the country above Rutgers in the tough as nails category. These teeth are sharp and vicious and for large stretches of the game, Rutgers would take bites and chunks out of the prolific Buckeye offense allowing Pikiell to once again wave his wand and thread the needle yet again.

I brought it up last recap but it is not a coincidence that once again, RU finds itself in familiar territory with 3:44 to go. The previous 4 were on the road...

Miami 59-58
Ohio State tied at 57
Purdue tied at 55
Northwestern tied at 55

now add Ohio State again tied at 55

So despite the angst on offense where RU could not finish around the rim and try to get some cushion down the stretch, RU played elite level defense for much of the game and that put them right there ready to play a 3-4 minute game to close it out, It took an extra session to secure the victory today yet Rutgers is becoming more comfortable in these spots. Never going to win all the close games but its pretty clear these situations are moments where RU is comfortable being and the poise they showed in overtime vs their opponent was the difference maker.

I referenced "teeth" earlier and its easy to circle back to Mawot Mag. Mag is the teeth of this Rutgers defense. He is the unsung guy. Never going to be mistake free on either side of the ball. He is at his best by quietly going about his work on defense and then scrapping for all the get out. Mag has generally been quietly brilliant the past few weeks. While everyone is a cog in the wheel, Cam gets the attention for his shot making, Paul gets the attention for his vision, Caleb for his prolific career as a defensive stopper, Cliff has the shot blocker and dunk maker. Yet Mag who is the "other" starter, the one not talked about. Mag has throttled his energy and controlled it. You saw it today. Whether it was learning to pull back on a transition run out or sending a couple of threes smoothly through the net. While it was a team effort today, no shot was bigger than Mag's corner 3 which gave RU its biggest lead of the game to that point at 65-61 with 38 seconds left. Mawot was not done as he absolutely sealed the game with 2 free throws with 21 seconds left putting RU up 6. There were other shots today too, Mag started us off in the 2nd half and then added a critical bucket to tie the game at 55 late. His defense doesnt show up in the stats so it was pretty nice he had the stat line on offense to get him some much deserved attention. Mag had 15 points, 5-6 fg, 2-3 from 3, 3-4 at the line, a whopping 8 boards,.

I am going to post some links because we need to remember what this kid has been through, not only at Rutgers with a bunch of tooth injuries but also just getting out of his home country of Sudan. Mag is the epitome of how working hard can lead to a dream. We need to appreciate his story because sometimes that gets lost in the course of a season.

A link to a Jerry Carino article from 3 years back about Mag's journey from Sudan to Egypt to Australia to the United States https://www.app.com/story/sports/college/2019/12/18/rutgers-basketball-mawot-mag/2674833001/

Then two more articles about Mag and his teeth, one incident in high school and yet another at Rutgers

https://www.nj.com/sports/2020/01/w...recruit-fights-tooth-and-nail-on-defense.html

this one another from Carino https://www.usatoday.com/story/spor...etball-mawot-mag-dental-surgeries/6585866001/

No doubt that Mag truly is the toughest nail in the teeth of the Rutgers defense

But as I said this was a team win. The D was there early and the usual potent Buckeye offense was held scoreless for 5 minutes. Unfortunately the RU offense was brutal, missing chippies and turning it over. RU went through an abysmal stretch for 5 minutes where they were held scoreless as OSU ran off 15 straight points. All of sudden it looked like Iowa all over again. OSU was hot from 3 and RU looked like they were unprepared to match the energy. A Mag 3 got things started and RU finally settled down. RU was playing indeed playing national championship level defense for the rest of the first half holding the Buckeyes to just 8 points over the final 11 minutes, in fact RU held them to just 3 points in the last 8 minutes. All of sudden the RAC crowd was into it and it was loud...real loud and the crowd easily deserves to be awarded several assists on defense. So all things considered after missing a bunch of makeable shots, down just 3 at half was just a testament to the RU D for just flummoxing a high octane offense used to scoring 35-40 points a half.

2nd half RU needed to assert themselves right out of the gate and that they did. But it was an unlikely catalyst that jump started the Scarlet Knights plight. Stevie Pikiell got called for a technical, reported his first? after I believe Caleb was pushed out of the way for a rebound. The Buckeyes hit the free throws but the RAC was enraged and once the spirits in the building are summonedm there is no way to put those genies bac into the bottle. The Rutgers faithful would be engaged and on their feet the rest of the game. The team was fired up again and the refs delivered a string of favorable calls to RU starting with a late gift foul call on a Spencer 3. Cam drained them all and we are tied. After a RAC aided turnover by OSU, Cam delivered RU first lead since the opening minutes and it was officially a brand new ball game. The lead would seesaw back and forth in a slugfest for a few minutes and RU took its biggest lead at 3 at 38-35. The Buckeyes would respond in a big way, regrouping and reeling off a quick 9-0 run to go up 6. Derek Simpson didnt play much today but lets just say his drive on the baseline flipped in to end that run was much needed. From there it was a rockfight.

An overlooked moment in this game was Cam coming from out of nowhere on Mag missed 3 with 7:54 left. Cam was fouled by Key which was his fourth. What a heady play by Cam who drained his shots and RU retook the lead. , Cliff elevated his game. After a woeful offensive start, Cliff was showing up when it mattered. Ditto for Paul who had an abysmal shooting night yet delivered a crucial 3. Unbelievably RU was in its blueprint trying to thread the needle. RU was rebounding better late and they were not turning it over. Paul found Cliff for a dunk that sent the RAC into a frenzy and RU was up 57-55. OSU wasnt going away and tied it at 57 and RU withstood not the best of shots by Sensabaugh to win the game for OSU. Send it into overtime and had to like RU's chances. OSU would just not go away. Credit them...they were never really intimidated by the crowd. Yet felt they were fading toward the end of overtime. Younger team and RU was more experienced in all ways. OSU had lost so many close games this year....UNC, Purdue and yes even the last game vs RU. Cliff was a monster on the boards and then Mag took over with his rebound and then draining his wide open 3 on an assist from Paul. The shot of the game.

The game at times was exhausting for the fan but when you come out of with a win, you feel so good. That was a hard fought win vs a very very good offensive team. To limit them to just 57 points in regulation and only 34% shooting was delightful. Yes if RU had a decent offensive game that could finish, RU likely wins by 10 but they are what they are. Rutgers gets there with defense not offense. Pikiell will almost always have RU in position to win and then give guys chances to step up and deliver a winning shot. A couple key things in this game that contributed to the win. RU had about 6 turnovers in the first 12 minutes of the game, yet they would only have 4 more in the next 33 minutes. Huge, huge huge. Another factor was rebounding, OSU still won that battle, 46-44 but I believe at the point where OSU retook the lead by 6, RU was starting to get hammered on the boards and I believe RU was behind by 8 in rebounds. RU did a much better job late including cutting the gap on the offense boards in the final few minutes of regulation.

As for players, I talked about Mag. Cliff was so much more effective in the 2nd half on offense delivering 14 points, 11 boards and a whopping 6 blocks and a fine 6-8 at the line. Cliff went from hurting the team at times early to we wouldnt have won the game without him by the final buzzer. Paul struggled with shooting, some just not even close yet was still a warrior in 42 minutes with 4 assists and one turnover. He kept the ball moving even when he and his teammates were not always successful shooting. Caleb may have been frustrating with his shot selection and 4-13 fg isnt good but cannot fault him for his defensive effort...43 minutes, 7 boards, 4 assists, 2 steals 1 turnover. Cannot take it granted what he brings to our team even with the head scratching decision making at times. Last but not least...Cam Spencer...team high 21 points, so many key plays, boards, steals, shots. Just a sick line...21 points, 9-11 ft, 7 boards, 6 assists, 4 steals and one turnover.....wow. How is that for an encore from the Northwestern game. Derek just 9 minutes and not sure he is ready for the big stage yet other than for minutes and to play a role. Solid and hit that big needed bucket. Ditto for Reiber in just 4 minutes. Spelled Cliff, got a defensive stop and board. Miller gave 2 minutes of defense and Wolf struggled in his 4 minutes. Hyatt meanwhile did not have a memorable game. A bunch of mistakes during that period where OSU went on a 15-0 run. Hyatt was just 0-4 fg and his minutes were cut to 19 after playing so solidly at Northwestern


OSU is good but not great. This is a game that Rutgers SHOULD be winning, protecting their home court especially in light over the disappointment vs Iowa. Combine this with the win at Northwestern and now there is not any pressure on RU heading out to East Lansing next week. You can never feel too comfortable in this league and things can change in a real hurry but you can feel very uncomfortable. The Buckeyes find themselves in that spot right now. Ditto for the Wildcats. Rutgers at 5-2 is now in sole possession of 2nd place and racking up another Q1 win (at least for now). Always better to fortify that resume in January so you do not have to do it in March.
 
Mag was fantastic throughout the game.

Other than the big 3, I thought his most important contributions were when Pike reinserted him down 15-4. We immediately go on a mini 7-0 run to stabilize a rough start, led by Mag’s 3-pointer, an assist on a fast break, a blocked shot, and some energetic defense.

That sequence saved this game from getting out of hand like Iowa last week.
 
May Justin Timberlake GIF
 
  • Haha
Reactions: bac2therac
Just another night in the Big 10, was it every in doubt?

Hard to zero in on any one particular theme today since this was a true team win with just everybody contributing to this wonderful hard fought victory. Yet it always seems to come back to the spinning wheel that Pikiell has constructed in Piscataway. Rutgers success this year revolves around it being "in sync" Not the greatest recruits, certainly not the most prolific of shooters or offenses. Yet probably the most relentless and unforgiving defenses in the country. There is no program in the country above Rutgers in the tough as nails category. These teeth are sharp and vicious and for large stretches of the game, Rutgers would take bites and chunks out of the prolific Buckeye offense allowing Pikiell to once again wave his wand and thread the needle yet again.

I brought it up last recap but it is not a coincidence that once again, RU finds itself in familiar territory with 3:44 to go. The previous 4 were on the road...

Miami 59-58
Ohio State tied at 57
Purdue tied at 55
Northwestern tied at 55

now add Ohio State again tied at 55

So despite the angst on offense where RU could not finish around the rim and try to get some cushion down the stretch, RU played elite level defense for much of the game and that put them right there ready to play a 3-4 minute game to close it out, It took an extra session to secure the victory today yet Rutgers is becoming more comfortable in these spots. Never going to win all the close games but its pretty clear these situations are moments where RU is comfortable being and the poise they showed in overtime vs their opponent was the difference maker.

I referenced "teeth" earlier and its easy to circle back to Mawot Mag. Mag is the teeth of this Rutgers defense. He is the unsung guy. Never going to be mistake free on either side of the ball. He is at his best by quietly going about his work on defense and then scrapping for all the get out. Mag has generally been quietly brilliant the past few weeks. While everyone is a cog in the wheel, Cam gets the attention for his shot making, Paul gets the attention for his vision, Caleb for his prolific career as a defensive stopper, Cliff has the shot blocker and dunk maker. Yet Mag who is the "other" starter, the one not talked about. Mag has throttled his energy and controlled it. You saw it today. Whether it was learning to pull back on a transition run out or sending a couple of threes smoothly through the net. While it was a team effort today, no shot was bigger than Mag's corner 3 which gave RU its biggest lead of the game to that point at 65-61 with 38 seconds left. Mawot was not done as he absolutely sealed the game with 2 free throws with 21 seconds left putting RU up 6. There were other shots today too, Mag started us off in the 2nd half and then added a critical bucket to tie the game at 55 late. His defense doesnt show up in the stats so it was pretty nice he had the stat line on offense to get him some much deserved attention. Mag had 15 points, 5-6 fg, 2-3 from 3, 3-4 at the line, a whopping 8 boards,.

I am going to post some links because we need to remember what this kid has been through, not only at Rutgers with a bunch of tooth injuries but also just getting out of his home country of Sudan. Mag is the epitome of how working hard can lead to a dream. We need to appreciate his story because sometimes that gets lost in the course of a season.

A link to a Jerry Carino article from 3 years back about Mag's journey from Sudan to Egypt to Australia to the United States https://www.app.com/story/sports/college/2019/12/18/rutgers-basketball-mawot-mag/2674833001/

Then two more articles about Mag and his teeth, one incident in high school and yet another at Rutgers

https://www.nj.com/sports/2020/01/w...recruit-fights-tooth-and-nail-on-defense.html

this one another from Carino https://www.usatoday.com/story/spor...etball-mawot-mag-dental-surgeries/6585866001/

No doubt that Mag truly is the toughest nail in the teeth of the Rutgers defense

But as I said this was a team win. The D was there early and the usual potent Buckeye offense was held scoreless for 5 minutes. Unfortunately the RU offense was brutal, missing chippies and turning it over. RU went through an abysmal stretch for 5 minutes where they were held scoreless as OSU ran off 15 straight points. All of sudden it looked like Iowa all over again. OSU was hot from 3 and RU looked like they were unprepared to match the energy. A Mag 3 got things started and RU finally settled down. RU was playing indeed playing national championship level defense for the rest of the first half holding the Buckeyes to just 8 points over the final 11 minutes, in fact RU held them to just 3 points in the last 8 minutes. All of sudden the RAC crowd was into it and it was loud...real loud and the crowd easily deserves to be awarded several assists on defense. So all things considered after missing a bunch of makeable shots, down just 3 at half was just a testament to the RU D for just flummoxing a high octane offense used to scoring 35-40 points a half.

2nd half RU needed to assert themselves right out of the gate and that they did. But it was an unlikely catalyst that jump started the Scarlet Knights plight. Stevie Pikiell got called for a technical, reported his first? after I believe Caleb was pushed out of the way for a rebound. The Buckeyes hit the free throws but the RAC was enraged and once the spirits in the building are summonedm there is no way to put those genies bac into the bottle. The Rutgers faithful would be engaged and on their feet the rest of the game. The team was fired up again and the refs delivered a string of favorable calls to RU starting with a late gift foul call on a Spencer 3. Cam drained them all and we are tied. After a RAC aided turnover by OSU, Cam delivered RU first lead since the opening minutes and it was officially a brand new ball game. The lead would seesaw back and forth in a slugfest for a few minutes and RU took its biggest lead at 3 at 38-35. The Buckeyes would respond in a big way, regrouping and reeling off a quick 9-0 run to go up 6. Derek Simpson didnt play much today but lets just say his drive on the baseline flipped in to end that run was much needed. From there it was a rockfight.

An overlooked moment in this game was Cam coming from out of nowhere on Mag missed 3 with 7:54 left. Cam was fouled by Key which was his fourth. What a heady play by Cam who drained his shots and RU retook the lead. , Cliff elevated his game. After a woeful offensive start, Cliff was showing up when it mattered. Ditto for Paul who had an abysmal shooting night yet delivered a crucial 3. Unbelievably RU was in its blueprint trying to thread the needle. RU was rebounding better late and they were not turning it over. Paul found Cliff for a dunk that sent the RAC into a frenzy and RU was up 57-55. OSU wasnt going away and tied it at 57 and RU withstood not the best of shots by Sensabaugh to win the game for OSU. Send it into overtime and had to like RU's chances. OSU would just not go away. Credit them...they were never really intimidated by the crowd. Yet felt they were fading toward the end of overtime. Younger team and RU was more experienced in all ways. OSU had lost so many close games this year....UNC, Purdue and yes even the last game vs RU. Cliff was a monster on the boards and then Mag took over with his rebound and then draining his wide open 3 on an assist from Paul. The shot of the game.

The game at times was exhausting for the fan but when you come out of with a win, you feel so good. That was a hard fought win vs a very very good offensive team. To limit them to just 57 points in regulation and only 34% shooting was delightful. Yes if RU had a decent offensive game that could finish, RU likely wins by 10 but they are what they are. Rutgers gets there with defense not offense. Pikiell will almost always have RU in position to win and then give guys chances to step up and deliver a winning shot. A couple key things in this game that contributed to the win. RU had about 6 turnovers in the first 12 minutes of the game, yet they would only have 4 more in the next 33 minutes. Huge, huge huge. Another factor was rebounding, OSU still won that battle, 46-44 but I believe at the point where OSU retook the lead by 6, RU was starting to get hammered on the boards and I believe RU was behind by 8 in rebounds. RU did a much better job late including cutting the gap on the offense boards in the final few minutes of regulation.

As for players, I talked about Mag. Cliff was so much more effective in the 2nd half on offense delivering 14 points, 11 boards and a whopping 6 blocks and a fine 6-8 at the line. Cliff went from hurting the team at times early to we wouldnt have won the game without him by the final buzzer. Paul struggled with shooting, some just not even close yet was still a warrior in 42 minutes with 4 assists and one turnover. He kept the ball moving even when he and his teammates were not always successful shooting. Caleb may have been frustrating with his shot selection and 4-13 fg isnt good but cannot fault him for his defensive effort...43 minutes, 7 boards, 4 assists, 2 steals 1 turnover. Cannot take it granted what he brings to our team even with the head scratching decision making at times. Last but not least...Cam Spencer...team high 21 points, so many key plays, boards, steals, shots. Just a sick line...21 points, 9-11 ft, 7 boards, 6 assists, 4 steals and one turnover.....wow. How is that for an encore from the Northwestern game. Derek just 9 minutes and not sure he is ready for the big stage yet other than for minutes and to play a role. Solid and hit that big needed bucket. Ditto for Reiber in just 4 minutes. Spelled Cliff, got a defensive stop and board. Miller gave 2 minutes of defense and Wolf struggled in his 4 minutes. Hyatt meanwhile did not have a memorable game. A bunch of mistakes during that period where OSU went on a 15-0 run. Hyatt was just 0-4 fg and his minutes were cut to 19 after playing so solidly at Northwestern


OSU is good but not great. This is a game that Rutgers SHOULD be winning, protecting their home court especially in light over the disappointment vs Iowa. Combine this with the win at Northwestern and now there is not any pressure on RU heading out to East Lansing next week. You can never feel too comfortable in this league and things can change in a real hurry but you can feel very uncomfortable. The Buckeyes find themselves in that spot right now. Ditto for the Wildcats. Rutgers at 5-2 is now in sole possession of 2nd place and racking up another Q1 win (at least for now). Always better to fortify that resume in January so you do not have to do it in March.
"there is no way to put those genies bac into the bottle"

I see what you did there ;)
 
  • Haha
Reactions: bac2therac
Just another night in the Big 10, was it every in doubt?

Hard to zero in on any one particular theme today since this was a true team win with just everybody contributing to this wonderful hard fought victory. Yet it always seems to come back to the spinning wheel that Pikiell has constructed in Piscataway. Rutgers success this year revolves around it being "in sync" Not the greatest recruits, certainly not the most prolific of shooters or offenses. Yet probably the most relentless and unforgiving defenses in the country. There is no program in the country above Rutgers in the tough as nails category. These teeth are sharp and vicious and for large stretches of the game, Rutgers would take bites and chunks out of the prolific Buckeye offense allowing Pikiell to once again wave his wand and thread the needle yet again.

I brought it up last recap but it is not a coincidence that once again, RU finds itself in familiar territory with 3:44 to go. The previous 4 were on the road...

Miami 59-58
Ohio State tied at 57
Purdue tied at 55
Northwestern tied at 55

now add Ohio State again tied at 55

So despite the angst on offense where RU could not finish around the rim and try to get some cushion down the stretch, RU played elite level defense for much of the game and that put them right there ready to play a 3-4 minute game to close it out, It took an extra session to secure the victory today yet Rutgers is becoming more comfortable in these spots. Never going to win all the close games but its pretty clear these situations are moments where RU is comfortable being and the poise they showed in overtime vs their opponent was the difference maker.

I referenced "teeth" earlier and its easy to circle back to Mawot Mag. Mag is the teeth of this Rutgers defense. He is the unsung guy. Never going to be mistake free on either side of the ball. He is at his best by quietly going about his work on defense and then scrapping for all the get out. Mag has generally been quietly brilliant the past few weeks. While everyone is a cog in the wheel, Cam gets the attention for his shot making, Paul gets the attention for his vision, Caleb for his prolific career as a defensive stopper, Cliff has the shot blocker and dunk maker. Yet Mag who is the "other" starter, the one not talked about. Mag has throttled his energy and controlled it. You saw it today. Whether it was learning to pull back on a transition run out or sending a couple of threes smoothly through the net. While it was a team effort today, no shot was bigger than Mag's corner 3 which gave RU its biggest lead of the game to that point at 65-61 with 38 seconds left. Mawot was not done as he absolutely sealed the game with 2 free throws with 21 seconds left putting RU up 6. There were other shots today too, Mag started us off in the 2nd half and then added a critical bucket to tie the game at 55 late. His defense doesnt show up in the stats so it was pretty nice he had the stat line on offense to get him some much deserved attention. Mag had 15 points, 5-6 fg, 2-3 from 3, 3-4 at the line, a whopping 8 boards,.

I am going to post some links because we need to remember what this kid has been through, not only at Rutgers with a bunch of tooth injuries but also just getting out of his home country of Sudan. Mag is the epitome of how working hard can lead to a dream. We need to appreciate his story because sometimes that gets lost in the course of a season.

A link to a Jerry Carino article from 3 years back about Mag's journey from Sudan to Egypt to Australia to the United States https://www.app.com/story/sports/college/2019/12/18/rutgers-basketball-mawot-mag/2674833001/

Then two more articles about Mag and his teeth, one incident in high school and yet another at Rutgers

https://www.nj.com/sports/2020/01/w...recruit-fights-tooth-and-nail-on-defense.html

this one another from Carino https://www.usatoday.com/story/spor...etball-mawot-mag-dental-surgeries/6585866001/

No doubt that Mag truly is the toughest nail in the teeth of the Rutgers defense

But as I said this was a team win. The D was there early and the usual potent Buckeye offense was held scoreless for 5 minutes. Unfortunately the RU offense was brutal, missing chippies and turning it over. RU went through an abysmal stretch for 5 minutes where they were held scoreless as OSU ran off 15 straight points. All of sudden it looked like Iowa all over again. OSU was hot from 3 and RU looked like they were unprepared to match the energy. A Mag 3 got things started and RU finally settled down. RU was playing indeed playing national championship level defense for the rest of the first half holding the Buckeyes to just 8 points over the final 11 minutes, in fact RU held them to just 3 points in the last 8 minutes. All of sudden the RAC crowd was into it and it was loud...real loud and the crowd easily deserves to be awarded several assists on defense. So all things considered after missing a bunch of makeable shots, down just 3 at half was just a testament to the RU D for just flummoxing a high octane offense used to scoring 35-40 points a half.

2nd half RU needed to assert themselves right out of the gate and that they did. But it was an unlikely catalyst that jump started the Scarlet Knights plight. Stevie Pikiell got called for a technical, reported his first? after I believe Caleb was pushed out of the way for a rebound. The Buckeyes hit the free throws but the RAC was enraged and once the spirits in the building are summonedm there is no way to put those genies bac into the bottle. The Rutgers faithful would be engaged and on their feet the rest of the game. The team was fired up again and the refs delivered a string of favorable calls to RU starting with a late gift foul call on a Spencer 3. Cam drained them all and we are tied. After a RAC aided turnover by OSU, Cam delivered RU first lead since the opening minutes and it was officially a brand new ball game. The lead would seesaw back and forth in a slugfest for a few minutes and RU took its biggest lead at 3 at 38-35. The Buckeyes would respond in a big way, regrouping and reeling off a quick 9-0 run to go up 6. Derek Simpson didnt play much today but lets just say his drive on the baseline flipped in to end that run was much needed. From there it was a rockfight.

An overlooked moment in this game was Cam coming from out of nowhere on Mag missed 3 with 7:54 left. Cam was fouled by Key which was his fourth. What a heady play by Cam who drained his shots and RU retook the lead. , Cliff elevated his game. After a woeful offensive start, Cliff was showing up when it mattered. Ditto for Paul who had an abysmal shooting night yet delivered a crucial 3. Unbelievably RU was in its blueprint trying to thread the needle. RU was rebounding better late and they were not turning it over. Paul found Cliff for a dunk that sent the RAC into a frenzy and RU was up 57-55. OSU wasnt going away and tied it at 57 and RU withstood not the best of shots by Sensabaugh to win the game for OSU. Send it into overtime and had to like RU's chances. OSU would just not go away. Credit them...they were never really intimidated by the crowd. Yet felt they were fading toward the end of overtime. Younger team and RU was more experienced in all ways. OSU had lost so many close games this year....UNC, Purdue and yes even the last game vs RU. Cliff was a monster on the boards and then Mag took over with his rebound and then draining his wide open 3 on an assist from Paul. The shot of the game.

The game at times was exhausting for the fan but when you come out of with a win, you feel so good. That was a hard fought win vs a very very good offensive team. To limit them to just 57 points in regulation and only 34% shooting was delightful. Yes if RU had a decent offensive game that could finish, RU likely wins by 10 but they are what they are. Rutgers gets there with defense not offense. Pikiell will almost always have RU in position to win and then give guys chances to step up and deliver a winning shot. A couple key things in this game that contributed to the win. RU had about 6 turnovers in the first 12 minutes of the game, yet they would only have 4 more in the next 33 minutes. Huge, huge huge. Another factor was rebounding, OSU still won that battle, 46-44 but I believe at the point where OSU retook the lead by 6, RU was starting to get hammered on the boards and I believe RU was behind by 8 in rebounds. RU did a much better job late including cutting the gap on the offense boards in the final few minutes of regulation.

As for players, I talked about Mag. Cliff was so much more effective in the 2nd half on offense delivering 14 points, 11 boards and a whopping 6 blocks and a fine 6-8 at the line. Cliff went from hurting the team at times early to we wouldnt have won the game without him by the final buzzer. Paul struggled with shooting, some just not even close yet was still a warrior in 42 minutes with 4 assists and one turnover. He kept the ball moving even when he and his teammates were not always successful shooting. Caleb may have been frustrating with his shot selection and 4-13 fg isnt good but cannot fault him for his defensive effort...43 minutes, 7 boards, 4 assists, 2 steals 1 turnover. Cannot take it granted what he brings to our team even with the head scratching decision making at times. Last but not least...Cam Spencer...team high 21 points, so many key plays, boards, steals, shots. Just a sick line...21 points, 9-11 ft, 7 boards, 6 assists, 4 steals and one turnover.....wow. How is that for an encore from the Northwestern game. Derek just 9 minutes and not sure he is ready for the big stage yet other than for minutes and to play a role. Solid and hit that big needed bucket. Ditto for Reiber in just 4 minutes. Spelled Cliff, got a defensive stop and board. Miller gave 2 minutes of defense and Wolf struggled in his 4 minutes. Hyatt meanwhile did not have a memorable game. A bunch of mistakes during that period where OSU went on a 15-0 run. Hyatt was just 0-4 fg and his minutes were cut to 19 after playing so solidly at Northwestern


OSU is good but not great. This is a game that Rutgers SHOULD be winning, protecting their home court especially in light over the disappointment vs Iowa. Combine this with the win at Northwestern and now there is not any pressure on RU heading out to East Lansing next week. You can never feel too comfortable in this league and things can change in a real hurry but you can feel very uncomfortable. The Buckeyes find themselves in that spot right now. Ditto for the Wildcats. Rutgers at 5-2 is now in sole possession of 2nd place and racking up another Q1 win (at least for now). Always better to fortify that resume in January so you do not have to do it in March.
Great summary as always......great team win with terrific team effort. Great that Mag had some big plays on offense combined with his stellar defense. He's also a fine rebounder like Caleb. Cam has become that steady all around outside scoring threat that Rutgers has always lacked . We're lucky to have him. But they key as far as I'm concerned with Rutgers winning was one person overlooked in your summary--Steve Pikiell. He had the team focused, relentless and totally locked in on defense. And i thought his taking the technical at the beginning of the second half was out of character for him but couldn't have been a better motivator for Rutgers. It seemed from that point on the fight was on . As Perdue's Coach Painter has described Rutgers , if you're going to war, you're stopping in New Jersey.
 
I cant take these nitroglycerin games ! Too many so far. Lol What an exhausting draining game !

So happy for Mag as Bac posted above what this poor kid has been through! Pike raved about Mag before the season started and now we see why

Just a great gutty effort and so happy for the team as we all wanted some sort of revenge from the fiasco that occurred last month.
 
Great summary BAC. I will add that was just a tremendous basketball game to be at. College basketball at its finest ,intense, athletic plays , kids flying around , crashing the boards , blocking shots , deflections everywhere, tough shots hit by both teams. Atmosphere was electric especially with the one possession game for most of the second half. I started to say to myself both teams playing so hard, it would be a shame either team had to lose, then caught myself and said Ohio State deserved the L after the fiasco at their place.
This is team with 5 starters that can go off on any night. Cam is absolutely playing with so much confidence and loved his getting 13 shots up. His assertiveness on offense is now getting other players open to let them make an impact , like MAG tonight. Clearly , Mag’s best overall offense defense rebounding low turnover game since his arrival on the Banks. Pike has mastered the MAG / Hyatt 2 headed monster to get the most out of both and riding the one that is having a better and more impactful game more minutes than the other one.
I am at every game at the Rac and have been for years and decades, but what we are witnessing on defense by our team is just magical. The effort and intensity , the recovery , the close outs , the rotations , is just so incredible super elite. I have seen Tennessee and Houston , the 2 teams ahead of use in Kenpom on defense and we just play at a more elite level, especially at the RAC. It is Pike’s signature and identity but we are witnessing maybe the best ever.
 
Just a little tidbit in relation to Mag for those who might not have caught the post-game interview with him on BTN… Mag actually expressed appreciation for being recognized for his game contributions and interview invite. Perhaps it was his first time this season. It seemed like it really meant something to him. Nice to see.
 
Just another night in the Big 10, was it every in doubt?

Hard to zero in on any one particular theme today since this was a true team win with just everybody contributing to this wonderful hard fought victory. Yet it always seems to come back to the spinning wheel that Pikiell has constructed in Piscataway. Rutgers success this year revolves around it being "in sync" Not the greatest recruits, certainly not the most prolific of shooters or offenses. Yet probably the most relentless and unforgiving defenses in the country. There is no program in the country above Rutgers in the tough as nails category. These teeth are sharp and vicious and for large stretches of the game, Rutgers would take bites and chunks out of the prolific Buckeye offense allowing Pikiell to once again wave his wand and thread the needle yet again.

I brought it up last recap but it is not a coincidence that once again, RU finds itself in familiar territory with 3:44 to go. The previous 4 were on the road...

Miami 59-58
Ohio State tied at 57
Purdue tied at 55
Northwestern tied at 55

now add Ohio State again tied at 55

So despite the angst on offense where RU could not finish around the rim and try to get some cushion down the stretch, RU played elite level defense for much of the game and that put them right there ready to play a 3-4 minute game to close it out, It took an extra session to secure the victory today yet Rutgers is becoming more comfortable in these spots. Never going to win all the close games but its pretty clear these situations are moments where RU is comfortable being and the poise they showed in overtime vs their opponent was the difference maker.

I referenced "teeth" earlier and its easy to circle back to Mawot Mag. Mag is the teeth of this Rutgers defense. He is the unsung guy. Never going to be mistake free on either side of the ball. He is at his best by quietly going about his work on defense and then scrapping for all the get out. Mag has generally been quietly brilliant the past few weeks. While everyone is a cog in the wheel, Cam gets the attention for his shot making, Paul gets the attention for his vision, Caleb for his prolific career as a defensive stopper, Cliff has the shot blocker and dunk maker. Yet Mag who is the "other" starter, the one not talked about. Mag has throttled his energy and controlled it. You saw it today. Whether it was learning to pull back on a transition run out or sending a couple of threes smoothly through the net. While it was a team effort today, no shot was bigger than Mag's corner 3 which gave RU its biggest lead of the game to that point at 65-61 with 38 seconds left. Mawot was not done as he absolutely sealed the game with 2 free throws with 21 seconds left putting RU up 6. There were other shots today too, Mag started us off in the 2nd half and then added a critical bucket to tie the game at 55 late. His defense doesnt show up in the stats so it was pretty nice he had the stat line on offense to get him some much deserved attention. Mag had 15 points, 5-6 fg, 2-3 from 3, 3-4 at the line, a whopping 8 boards,.

I am going to post some links because we need to remember what this kid has been through, not only at Rutgers with a bunch of tooth injuries but also just getting out of his home country of Sudan. Mag is the epitome of how working hard can lead to a dream. We need to appreciate his story because sometimes that gets lost in the course of a season.

A link to a Jerry Carino article from 3 years back about Mag's journey from Sudan to Egypt to Australia to the United States https://www.app.com/story/sports/college/2019/12/18/rutgers-basketball-mawot-mag/2674833001/

Then two more articles about Mag and his teeth, one incident in high school and yet another at Rutgers

https://www.nj.com/sports/2020/01/w...recruit-fights-tooth-and-nail-on-defense.html

this one another from Carino https://www.usatoday.com/story/spor...etball-mawot-mag-dental-surgeries/6585866001/

No doubt that Mag truly is the toughest nail in the teeth of the Rutgers defense

But as I said this was a team win. The D was there early and the usual potent Buckeye offense was held scoreless for 5 minutes. Unfortunately the RU offense was brutal, missing chippies and turning it over. RU went through an abysmal stretch for 5 minutes where they were held scoreless as OSU ran off 15 straight points. All of sudden it looked like Iowa all over again. OSU was hot from 3 and RU looked like they were unprepared to match the energy. A Mag 3 got things started and RU finally settled down. RU was playing indeed playing national championship level defense for the rest of the first half holding the Buckeyes to just 8 points over the final 11 minutes, in fact RU held them to just 3 points in the last 8 minutes. All of sudden the RAC crowd was into it and it was loud...real loud and the crowd easily deserves to be awarded several assists on defense. So all things considered after missing a bunch of makeable shots, down just 3 at half was just a testament to the RU D for just flummoxing a high octane offense used to scoring 35-40 points a half.

2nd half RU needed to assert themselves right out of the gate and that they did. But it was an unlikely catalyst that jump started the Scarlet Knights plight. Stevie Pikiell got called for a technical, reported his first? after I believe Caleb was pushed out of the way for a rebound. The Buckeyes hit the free throws but the RAC was enraged and once the spirits in the building are summonedm there is no way to put those genies bac into the bottle. The Rutgers faithful would be engaged and on their feet the rest of the game. The team was fired up again and the refs delivered a string of favorable calls to RU starting with a late gift foul call on a Spencer 3. Cam drained them all and we are tied. After a RAC aided turnover by OSU, Cam delivered RU first lead since the opening minutes and it was officially a brand new ball game. The lead would seesaw back and forth in a slugfest for a few minutes and RU took its biggest lead at 3 at 38-35. The Buckeyes would respond in a big way, regrouping and reeling off a quick 9-0 run to go up 6. Derek Simpson didnt play much today but lets just say his drive on the baseline flipped in to end that run was much needed. From there it was a rockfight.

An overlooked moment in this game was Cam coming from out of nowhere on Mag missed 3 with 7:54 left. Cam was fouled by Key which was his fourth. What a heady play by Cam who drained his shots and RU retook the lead. , Cliff elevated his game. After a woeful offensive start, Cliff was showing up when it mattered. Ditto for Paul who had an abysmal shooting night yet delivered a crucial 3. Unbelievably RU was in its blueprint trying to thread the needle. RU was rebounding better late and they were not turning it over. Paul found Cliff for a dunk that sent the RAC into a frenzy and RU was up 57-55. OSU wasnt going away and tied it at 57 and RU withstood not the best of shots by Sensabaugh to win the game for OSU. Send it into overtime and had to like RU's chances. OSU would just not go away. Credit them...they were never really intimidated by the crowd. Yet felt they were fading toward the end of overtime. Younger team and RU was more experienced in all ways. OSU had lost so many close games this year....UNC, Purdue and yes even the last game vs RU. Cliff was a monster on the boards and then Mag took over with his rebound and then draining his wide open 3 on an assist from Paul. The shot of the game.

The game at times was exhausting for the fan but when you come out of with a win, you feel so good. That was a hard fought win vs a very very good offensive team. To limit them to just 57 points in regulation and only 34% shooting was delightful. Yes if RU had a decent offensive game that could finish, RU likely wins by 10 but they are what they are. Rutgers gets there with defense not offense. Pikiell will almost always have RU in position to win and then give guys chances to step up and deliver a winning shot. A couple key things in this game that contributed to the win. RU had about 6 turnovers in the first 12 minutes of the game, yet they would only have 4 more in the next 33 minutes. Huge, huge huge. Another factor was rebounding, OSU still won that battle, 46-44 but I believe at the point where OSU retook the lead by 6, RU was starting to get hammered on the boards and I believe RU was behind by 8 in rebounds. RU did a much better job late including cutting the gap on the offense boards in the final few minutes of regulation.

As for players, I talked about Mag. Cliff was so much more effective in the 2nd half on offense delivering 14 points, 11 boards and a whopping 6 blocks and a fine 6-8 at the line. Cliff went from hurting the team at times early to we wouldnt have won the game without him by the final buzzer. Paul struggled with shooting, some just not even close yet was still a warrior in 42 minutes with 4 assists and one turnover. He kept the ball moving even when he and his teammates were not always successful shooting. Caleb may have been frustrating with his shot selection and 4-13 fg isnt good but cannot fault him for his defensive effort...43 minutes, 7 boards, 4 assists, 2 steals 1 turnover. Cannot take it granted what he brings to our team even with the head scratching decision making at times. Last but not least...Cam Spencer...team high 21 points, so many key plays, boards, steals, shots. Just a sick line...21 points, 9-11 ft, 7 boards, 6 assists, 4 steals and one turnover.....wow. How is that for an encore from the Northwestern game. Derek just 9 minutes and not sure he is ready for the big stage yet other than for minutes and to play a role. Solid and hit that big needed bucket. Ditto for Reiber in just 4 minutes. Spelled Cliff, got a defensive stop and board. Miller gave 2 minutes of defense and Wolf struggled in his 4 minutes. Hyatt meanwhile did not have a memorable game. A bunch of mistakes during that period where OSU went on a 15-0 run. Hyatt was just 0-4 fg and his minutes were cut to 19 after playing so solidly at Northwestern


OSU is good but not great. This is a game that Rutgers SHOULD be winning, protecting their home court especially in light over the disappointment vs Iowa. Combine this with the win at Northwestern and now there is not any pressure on RU heading out to East Lansing next week. You can never feel too comfortable in this league and things can change in a real hurry but you can feel very uncomfortable. The Buckeyes find themselves in that spot right now. Ditto for the Wildcats. Rutgers at 5-2 is now in sole possession of 2nd place and racking up another Q1 win (at least for now). Always better to fortify that resume in January so you do not have to do it in March.

"Last but not least...Cam Spencer...team high 21 points, so many key plays, boards, steals, shots. Just a sick line...21 points, 9-11 ft, 7 boards, 6 assists, 4 steals and one turnover"

Hmmm, looked like a pretty shaky game for Cam. He missed twice as many foul shots today as all season.
And even missed a game wining shot at the buzzer. But I guess I'll give him a pass this time...
 
Thank u for reminding everyone what makes people like Mag so extraordinary, so resilient - their travels, the totality of their journey, their hardships overcome along the way. We are all better for acknowledging (and being reminded of) the backstories of these young people who are much more than div 1 basketball players. Typical unselfish team player - typical Pike-ite - who reminds us that adaptation & accountability are not (and should not be) negotiable either on the court or in the real world.
 
R-E-S-P-E-C-T. Sock it to me, sock it to me, sock it to me!

Great review but downplaying the obvious. RU has arrived and for the first time in the BIG era and not coincidentally Pike’s 1st Technical Foul we finally got the Respect from the Officiating that we deserve.

With apologies to BAC, but, “I believe Caleb was pushed out of the way for a rebound” may be the understatement of all reviews. Reality is that Caleb, the reigning B1G defensive player of the year was absolutely clobbered from behind. Borderline whiplash and certainly could have and probably should have been looked at for a flagrant foul.

Pike picked the perfect time for his first T.
It was an awful bit of officiating by the ref.
Pike had to protect Caleb the ultimate warrior.
Pike had to fight for his team.
Pike also raised an already outstanding rabid crowd to yet another level.
Brilliant coaching by Pike. Might have been his best coaching. Best use of technicals since Tom Young.

Reminded me of the Notre Dame game last year. Every possession mattered. It was just like an NCAA tourney game. Announcers on post game said there were 22 lead changes, if so, that’s freakin amazing and amazing preparation for the post season.

I thought we had nine turnovers at the half. Did we only have two more turnovers the rest of the game including overtime? If we value the basketball the way we did today we will be tough to beat.

Although we may have been slightly out rebounded, I think the real story that can’t be overlooked was the blocked shots. Cliff looked like the second coming of James Bailey and Roy Hinson in the first half and his teammates rose to the occasion with the same as well. Kept the game from getting out of hand. Makes up for being slightly out rebounded.

Mag had the game of his life and kudos to him. Nobody has ever questioned his heart, desire, injuries or back story. He is likable. Today he hit his shots and deserves all the credit in the world. Hyatt probably had the game of his life against Northwestern. It’s nice to see if they both continue to raise their games.

When is the last time, probably since Billet and Rob Hodgson, that we have felt comfortable that we could win a game on the line? Think one of the keys to this game was Cliff hitting his foul shots. A center hitting his foul shots to win the games? Did he hit four or six in a row? A crucial part of the game. In honor of Brent Dabbs today, was he our last good foul shooting center? And then to have Cam in reserve when game on the line!! Such a nice luxury. More importantly we won the game on the line as we finally got the respect we have earned.

So many players ended up with borderline double doubles. Cam was so good that the fans were chanting MVP. Cliff after a slow offensive 1st half seemed to get better and stronger as game went on. Best game in a few weeks. Paul was Paul and while not his best, some beautiful passes and crucial baskets. Simpson and Reiber made some nice contributions. Pike inserts Miller for some D and OSU player immediately hits three. We are rooting for you Jayden but can’t let that happen. Thought Caleb was his usual defensive stalwart, although not sure what happened on that last foul shot? If and when he finds his shot we may reach an even higher level.

As for OSU, Sensabaugh is very good. Do 6’6” players go to the NBA early? He’s very good. How does someone from Florida end up at Ohio State.

I don’t know what to make of Chris Holtmann. First what’s with his coaching outfit? Vest? He looks a CEO or the Governor of Virginia with that outfit. What’s up that? Nothing that said Ohio State or Sponsor? Nike can’t be happy. Is he at war with them?

His sideline demeanor is fine but doesn’t seem like he is getting the most out of talent. Not unlike Danny Hurley, think he should be winning more with the talent he has. Disagree with those above who say OSU is not good, if they figure it out and click they can be good as anybody.

Firmly believe we won today because we finally earn the respect of the Officials that we deserve. Foul shooting and getting to the line won us this game. First time in eons that I think we were treated fairly and maybe God forbid we even had an officiating and home field advantage.

Pike T may be a turning point!!

Go RU! Beat MSU!
 
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"Last but not least...Cam Spencer...team high 21 points, so many key plays, boards, steals, shots. Just a sick line...21 points, 9-11 ft, 7 boards, 6 assists, 4 steals and one turnover"

Hmmm, looked like a pretty shaky game for Cam. He missed twice as many foul shots today as all season.
And even missed a game wining shot at the buzzer. But I guess I'll give him a pass this time...
Spencer had at least two in/out 3 pointers which would have won the game in regulation.I like that he took 13 shots and drove to the basket and got fouled.He is a difference maker on offense and defense.
 
As many on this thread are pointing out, I think the play of the game (other than the Mag triple) was the technical foul on Pikiell. The game had a completely different feel after that:
- Players suddenly hyper motivated
- The crowd going bananas
- The refs clearly intimidated and giving RU a bunch of calls

I thought the foul that resulted in Spencer making 3 free throws was an absolute gift at a critical juncture. As a Rutgers fan, it seems so weird to be on the right side of the referees. It's fun.
 
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Spot on Bac. And I absolutely love the comments on Mag. He has been the unsung hero for sone time now and that’s why Pike loves him.
 
As many on this thread are pointing out, I think the play of the game (other than the Mag triple) was the technical foul on Pikiell. The game had a completely different feel after that:
- Players suddenly hyper motivated
- The crowd going bananas
- The refs clearly intimidated and giving RU a bunch of calls

I thought the foul that resulted in Spencer making 3 free throws was an absolute gift at a critical juncture. As a Rutgers fan, it seems so weird to be on the right side of the referees. It's fun.
An additional Pike moment was when he removed Hyatt shortly after he received an offensive foul on a drive to the basket . Hyatt should have passed off to a teammate but selfishly kept the ball and incurred the foul. The message to Hyatt and the team ," we play as team ,play smart and unselfishly".
 
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