Props to the Bucks!

First off, a special "props" to Tyler Moeller who was just awarded a 6th year of eligibility last night. This guy endured an entire year out of football last season due to a head injury suffered in his "civilian life" when he was jumped in a bar in Florida with his family more than a year ago. Then, after delivering standout performances early in the season, a re-torn pectoral muscle ended his year. His was the first among a series of injuries in the Buckeye secondary.

Next, props to the Buckeye women's basketball team. The women are 3-0 with Sammy Prahalis on the bench through her 3 game suspension for secondary NCAA violations. She rejoins the team just as they are about to head to the Meadowlands for a hook-up with the UConn women. Tayler Hill has been given the point duties in Sammy's absence. And no cupcakes here ... the last win was last night against the always tough LSU women.

Finally, what can you say about the early prognosis for the men's basketball team. All I can say is WOW. I still remember seeing Jared Sullinger as a high school sophomore during the basketball playoffs. He looked like he was having a blast with his friends and there was nary a team in Central Ohio who could match up with Northland. Add to his legend a dynamite cast of superstars from all over Ohio and nearby and we have what is certainly shaping up like a terrific team for Thad and staff. Sully has certainly gotten the props from local and now national media, but the standout for me in Wednesday's game against Florida was David Lighty. He has waited to get revenge on the 2007 finals loss, but his game has developed so much over the years as well. He went from a role-player in the 2007 final - a situational sub on defense - to a well-rounded player on both ends. Add to that his leadership with 6 freshmen on the team and hardly enough playing time to go around and we see the real David Lighty emerging. What we always thought was there. Sure, his name is not on any Naismith list, but I guarantee that Thad Matta would not have wanted to go into this season without David. He is likely the glue that will help this team mesh. Certainly with this many stars and future stars on this team, the chemistry could certainly be an issue, along with playing time, roles, etc. Thad has his hands full - and the 2011 class is also emerging as one of the tops in the country - but David (and fellow seniors) can set the tone - and so far, they appear to have set the tone. I look for really great things from this team if the injury bug can stay clear.

Billy Donovan might be right ... this team might be better without Evan Turner. It sure is deeper in talent.

GO BUCKS from JennyBucks!