Quick Post: Licking the Beavers

I apologize for the title.  I couldn't help myself.

82-60, CU.  Just like last season, that score does the game a disservice; it was far less competitive than that.  After some early back and forth, the Buffs took control and never looked back.

Carlon Brown and the Buffs flew past Oregon St.   From: The BDC

I talked about the Buffs needing to suppress Oregon State's shooting percentage, and they did just that.  With a typically swarming defense, CU held the shell-shocked Beavers to 36% shooting.  This lead directly to OSU scoring over 22 points below their season average.  Scoring sensation Jared Cunningham was kept in check, and   supporting cast performers like Ahmad Starks, who had scored in double figures each conference game prior to tonight, was kept all but silent from the field.

Faced with a team that likes to run and share the ball, the Buffs handed them a dose of their own medicine.  Running the floor, and utilizing the break to shred the Beaver defense, the Buffs never gave OSU a chance to catch their breath.  CU even shared the ball well, spreading the rock around for a season high 19 assists on 29 made baskets.  Combined with a 43-31 rebounding advantage, the Buffs had little to worry about down the stretch.

'Dre had a fantastic night, grabbing yet another double-double (16/15), but my player of the game was Askia Booker.  With fellow freshman Spencer Dinwiddie struggling early, Ski brought the energy and pace CU needed to bust out of OSU's 1-3-1 zone trap.  "The Scrat" finished with 15 points, 3 assists, and 2 steals in only 20 minutes of play (also went 7-7 from the line).  Without him, I think the Buffs struggle to separate from the Beavers.

Ski's play was vital tonight.  From: CUBuffs.com

Good win, time to focus on the Ducks.  Stay out of the storm, it's getting nasty out there.

Go Buffs!