Patriots head to Miami

Exams are over and now Coach L and his boys head to Miami to take on FIU Friday night looking for their first road win of the season. I gotta admit I love seeing the headline "Men’s Basketball Hosts Nationally-Recognized George Mason" on any opposing school's website. Last season against Florida International Dre Smith had his coming out party scoring 20 points and showcasing his quickness. This matchup is an interesting one with the Golden Panthers being led by 7-0 250 pound, Pepperdine transfer Russell Hicks. The Patriots smaller lineup could run up the score with their quickness and athletic advantages, but I hate to jinx the squad predicting they will blow out anyone after the ECU debacle. The Patriots could get into trouble if Hicks size and strength causes foul trouble for the front court, but the team should be well disciplined after the long break. Another thing to focus on in this game is Folarin Campbell, who is rumored to be moving back to the point. A move I am not sure will make a whole lot of difference in the offense but I think a change in the lineup like this could be good for the team and shake things up. Frankly Jordan Carter is not impressing me this season and I would really like to see more of Cam Long at the point, who by the way is shooting over 57% from the field. Also, I am curious to see the play of Louis Birdsong, who now does not have to worry about losing his starting position with Monroe permanently sidelined for the year. Look for Mason to finally start off strong and hopefully remind us of the team we saw destroy Drexel.