(9) Louisville Rolls by Rutgers 78-59; Rolf’s Recapsulation

Coming off three straight wins over ranked foes, this was just the kind of performance you wanted to see from the Cardinals. Facing a marginal (and I’m being polite with that word) team prior to facing a top 10 team on the road this coming weekend, there was the thought Louisville may not be that sharp tonight, possibly even looking ahead to Syracuse on Sunday. No need to worry, the Cardinals don’t appear to overlook anyone. The Cardinals improved to 14-3, 5-0 in Big East play, they’ll travel to no. 8 Syracuse Sunday at noon.

Terrence Williams is a beast ladies and gentlemen. Tonight, T-Will simply had 23 points, 11 rebounds, 4 steals, and three unbelieveable dunks. After his performance, I am officially starting the T-Will for Big East Player of the Year campaign. The man is a triple-double threat each time he plays, but while his offensive play has been spectacular, his defense is as strong as ever. He’s the best athlete on the floor essentially every game he plays and is definitely leaving his mark on the ‘Ville during his senior campaign.

Earl Clark continued his stellar play with a somewhat quiet 15 points and 7 rebounds, while Samardo Samuels added 15 points. Edgar Sosa also continued his improved play with 10 points, 4 assists, and NO turnovers. This team is really starting to gel and right now, I’m not sure anyone wants to see the Cardinals looming on their schedule. Let’s do it, time for the Good, the Bad, and the Ari Wolfe:

The Good – I’m going to nominate the intensity level. From the people I had spoken with prior to the game, most were wondering about how hard the Cardinals would play considering they had been through several down to the wire contests and were facing a weak Rutgers team. Louisville quelled those fears quick as it was evident early on they were nothing but business tonight. The foul shooting continues to improve as the Cardinals shot 69.6% from the stripe going 16-23.

The Bad - Turnovers. It is difficult to pick out something to complain about, but Louisville did turn the ball over seventeen times. That number needs to be lower, but again, they won handily so you don’t worry about it too much.

The Ari Wolfe – Despite a strong push made by the ESPNU broadcast team, particularly in their constant talking about the Rutgers student announcing crew, it was not enough to overtake the always aggravating Tim Higgins and his officiating style. For those of you who do not know, I cannot stand the man.

Stay tuned to the pinkie has we’ll have continued coverage of the Cardinals and their big match-up against 8th ranked Syracuse this weekend.