Louisiana vs Pepperdine

[MelRock]

Why did he de-commit from LSU after 18 mths? I'm not complaining, just curious as to why if anyone knows?

I am not sure of the complete reason, but I can tell you that UL was the only team that game in with a plan for not only his basketball career but his education. The family was very impressed with the coaching staff and to actually have a degree plan.

[Cajunsmike]

Why did he de-commit from LSU after 18 mths? I'm not complaining, just curious as to why if anyone knows?

David Patrick was the LSU assistant coach who had garnered Russell's commitment. He left LSU to take a job at TCU. That is why Russell moved on from LSU. Note this is another example of the star fallacy. He was 4 star while committed to LSU and became a 3 star after dropping them. Patrick played for Jessie Evans here in the late 90's. His recruiting helped St. Mary's become a West Coast conference power. He left there to go to LSU and got Simmons to sign with the Tigers.

[Cajunsmike]

I would predict Miller to redshirt if there is only one. JMO. I have no inside info from anyone.

While I have no definitive knowledge, a staff member told me that if we do redshirt anyone, Brown is the most likely guy to be asked to do so. Of course no decisions have been made yet. You have to see how the season turns out and also how the academic situation plays out in the spring semester. Now, we expect no problems in that regard but you never know.

[Hark Mudspeth]

While I have no definitive knowledge, a staff player told me that if we do redshirt anyone, Brown is the most likely guy to be asked to do so. Of course no decisions have been made yet. You have to see how the season turns out and also how the academic situation plays out in the spring semester. Now, we expect no problems in that regard but you never know.

I've been avoiding saying it because I feel like it's a jinx and I dont wish it on anyone, but it's possible an injury could make the decision simple. Long time between now and then, very well could just work itself out.

[duggie85]

While I have no definitive knowledge, a staff player told me that if we do redshirt anyone, Brown is the most likely guy to be asked to do so. Of course no decisions have been made yet. You have to see how the season turns out and also how the academic situation plays out in the spring semester. Now, we expect no problems in that regard but you never know.

Mike, as close to the program as you are, has Plaisance progressed (or not progressed) to the coaching staffs expectations? Is he lagging or behind in the minds?

If you'd rather not say, understand that as well.

[VObserver]

Mike, as close to the program as you are, has Plaisance progressed (or not progressed) to the coaching staffs expectations? Is he lagging or behind in the minds?

If you'd rather not say, understand that as well.

I am not Mike, and I don't talk with the staff; but in my opinion Plaisance has looked better the last two or three games. Prior to that he looked lost. By prior, I mean all of last year and the first 9 or 10 games this year. Maybe the light is going on for him, but he is still sort of a project, especially defensively.

[Cajunsmike]

Mike, as close to the program as you are, has Plaisance progressed (or not progressed) to the coaching staffs expectations? Is he lagging or behind in the minds?

If you'd rather not say, understand that as well.

Staff never thought Plaisance would be a big scorer and I don't know what they think of his progress. If I had to guess, I would say he is not as far along as they had hoped. You see glimpses of good play at times but it is inconsistent. He was very impressive on the alley oop dunk he got towards the end of the half against UNO. Against Pepperdine he got a couple of boards but should have had more as at least one was ripped away from him as he after he had corralled it. He also still fouls too much but I will admit he seems to get raw deals on calls at times. Neither he nor Stalcup have the girth of the two starting bigs which is why opponents score in the paint more than we would like when they are in. Bottom line is that Plaisance and Stalcup are both making progress but not at the pace needed for them to be big factors early in the conference race. One guy who is playing inside a little more is Jerekus Davis. When he does, he holds his own with the big boys. Kid is obviously talented and I think you will see him continue to progress. He has been hitting his shot when the game is not in doubt. Once he hits a critical shot in crunch time, you will see him take off.

[duggie85]

Appreciate responses VO & Mike.

[mahtoo]

While I have no definitive knowledge, a staff member told me that if we do redshirt anyone, Brown is the most likely guy to be asked to do so. Of course no decisions have been made yet. You have to see how the season turns out and also how the academic situation plays out in the spring semester. Now, we expect no problems in that regard but you never know.

It's always good to get info from someone who talks to the staff. Appreciate your input and analysis during the season.
My two cents.....
I like the athleticism of Brown. Would like to see him and Davis get more minutes, especially Davis if he continues to hit his shots. I like Miller too but IMO he often tries to take someone off the dribble and isn't quick enough to do that. Not a good one on one game. When he tries to create from anywhere outside the box it often results in a turnover. And except for the Georgia game, I don't think the 3 point shot is a strong part of his game and think we would be better served if others on the team were taking those shots. Good size and strength around the basket. Needs to play under control.

Agree that it's very early to make predictions. Lots can change and guys sitting out this year will have a say so in what happens next year.

Missed a lot of games in the last 3 or 4 years but I agree it looks to me that, top to bottom, this team is Marlin's most talented. Fun group to watch.

[GeauxCajuns]

I wish plaissance would embrace his role.(not that he isn't, more of the role I want to see) (ala bird man) He could easily be a fan favorite, he plays intense. When he gets a bs call you can tell he's upset, he should turn that into getting the crowd really into.

[CajunEXPRESS]

I wish plaissance would embrace his role.(not that he isn't, more of the role I want to see) (ala bird man) He could easily be a fan favorite, he plays intense. When he gets a bs call you can tell he's upset, he should turn that into getting the crowd really into.

The only thing wrong with Plaisance is his failure to stay out of foul trouble. He had a similar problem in high school with generally slower and less talented opposition.

The last few games he's improved. Maybe he's doing a better job of positioning than he has in the past.

[Cajunsmike]

It's always good to get info from someone who talks to the staff. Appreciate your input and analysis during the season.
My two cents.....
I like the athleticism of Brown. Would like to see him and Davis get more minutes, especially Davis if he continues to hit his shots. I like Miller too but IMO he often tries to take someone off the dribble and isn't quick enough to do that. Not a good one on one game. When he tries to create from anywhere outside the box it often results in a turnover. And except for the Georgia game, I don't think the 3 point shot is a strong part of his game and think we would be better served if others on the team were taking those shots. Good size and strength around the basket. Needs to play under control.

Agree that it's very early to make predictions. Lots can change and guys sitting out this year will have a say so in what happens next year.

Missed a lot of games in the last 3 or 4 years but I agree it looks to me that, top to bottom, this team is Marlin's most talented. Fun group to watch.

When Miller takes a guy one on one he is often trying to draw fouls from the opposing big men. As strong and as big as he is, they often have to foul him to prevent the basket attempt.