Running Rams

George Mason was not able to overcome a deficit this year in Richmond against the Rams. VCU opened with a 13-2 run but hey last year Mason came back from 17 points in the 2nd half. Not the case this time, as the Rams exploited Mason's poor guard play to earn their 13th conference win. Mason got another strong post game from both Thomas (17 pts 12 rebs) and Monroe (13 and 9), but it proved that without solid contributions from your guards your going to have trouble beating anyone. Teams that have trouble with Mason's post game usually focus on stopping it in the 2nd half, forcing guys like Campbell, Vaughan and Smith to make outside shots. No easy task for this Patriots squad. Will Thomas is going to get double doubles and Monroe is starting to consistently score along side him, but when Campbell and Vaughan go a combined 2-16 from the field Mason isn't going to win often. Jordan Carter needs to pick up more of the slack when Campbell has nights like this and not be afraid to shoot more. Carter is no floor general but he runs the offense well, often playing too unselfish.

Tomorrow's nationally televised game against Hofstra is a game that has lost some its luster but its still an important game for the Patriots. Can they start a run here and finish up strong before the CAA tournament? Mason had four players log 30 minutes or more against VCU and that could take its toll. The lack of depth on this team only adds to this problem along with injuries to Urbina and Fleming. Don't forget that Hofstra would like nothing more than to knock off the Patriots on ESPN after getting snubbed by the selection committee last March. I predict a close battle between these two squads and no groin punching this year.