Being 2-6 against difficult competition may be, for EC, motivation going into conference play, but it does absolutley nothing, zero, zip, nada for you in terms of QOWI.  And you know who knows this, GC's coaching staff. They are covering all bases by setting an easier out of conference schedule. Because if they win the CCC tournament, great, they're automatically in. But if they lose, they can fall back on their stellar out of conference schedule to get them an at large bid. So sure, EC fans may be saying, that's unfair, or that their schedule will help them later on. But GC's schedule is helping them right now, and ultimately, could be helping them come February. Plus, last time I checked, 7-0 usually creates a larger sense of confidence than 2-6, but that's just me.

P.S. As I was writing this HoopsFan posted his, so keep that in mind.

I 2nd Maqs' need to delay POY hearing's until players have become consistant enough to warrant talk over it. Dec. 7th? Come on.  As far as GC being ranked goes... as fans of GC, as well as of the conference, seeing them nationally ranked would be monumental, but with their out of conference schedule, and them being in the CCC, lets not expect that exposure just yet. Do we remember last year when the Scots rolled off 18 straight wins and weren't even sniffed at until February? They need to continue to win the games that they are suppose to win, which includes Saturday's contest, and have great showings against teams like Bates, and I believe they will find the promise land come late January. 

GC gave away the Salem game last year. Poor decision making down the latter portion of the 2nd half gave way to Salem being able to emerge victorious. This year however, GC seems to be able to close off games better. Their senior leadership is obviously apparent and their junior play has most definitely helped as well. With the token play they are getting from their young bloods, one has no choice but to like GC in this game.  Luckily they have been tested early in this young year, so they should not surprised by a good Salem team. Plus, the fact that these two teams are so evenly matched, and it'll basicly come down to who makes the least mistakes, and who wants the win more. I wont be able to be there, but I can only imagine it'll be one hell of a game.

I know CSC is having an off year, rightfully so after losing St. Clair. But is RWU that legite? Or are they the CCC's version of the 01, 02, 03, Philly Eagles? In that they get everyones hopes up early, and they look highly promising, only to have the bubble burst when it counts, i.e. losing to WIT in the CCC quarterfinals last year. Just curious.