Posted on: November 9, 2009 8:45 am
No doubt, the Panthers and Blue Jays are going to be the best of the MVC this year. I'm sure they might get a stumble to a team on the road this season since it's always a challenge to win games on the road in the Valley, but I can easily see both these teams making the tournament this year. As for SIU, wow, what a horrible season last year, at least to Saluki standards. I think fourth is a good spot for them and I think they could even possibly get a win from Illinois St. this year, but two things have to happen this year for the Dawgs to compete. First, and most important, SIU has to find someone to replace Mullins. Mullins has been a joy to watch ever since his freshman year. He's been one of the more athletic and talented point guards SIU has had and losing him is a big blow. The Saluki's need a goo floor general out there every night. Second, Fay has to step up his game this year. I really think Fay could be a great inside-out guy in the MVC this year if he works hard, even possibly the best in the conference. When he came in as a freshman a lot of people had high expectations for him and I think that kind of got to him a little bit. I'm anxious to see how Freeman will work into Lowery's system, and I'm hoping that Dillard can imporve from a good season last year. The Dawgs were also picked in the upper tier of the MVC last year and that didn't turn out to well, I hope they can improve upon last years performance and get back to that good ole Floorburn-U style of ball. Go Salukis!
