X's and Joe's

Bob and Mike welcome Andy Bottoms from The Assembly Call to discuss the evolving world of bracketology and what the 2025 NCAA Tournament reveals about the future of college basketball.This episode offers an insider's perspective on how bracketologists approach their craft, the metrics that matter most to the selection committee, and why the drama of bubble teams captures the public's imagination in ways similar to reality television.The conversation explores how conference realignment has fundamentally altered tournament selection, creating a widening gap between power conferences and mid-majors.Segment 1: The Rise of Bracketology as a Cultural PhenomenonAndy explains that bracketology has exploded in popularity partly because the selection process has become more data-driven and terminology has worked its way into mainstream broadcasts (7:00)Mike theorizes bracketology taps into the same psychological appeal as reality TV shows – the drama of inclusion and exclusion captures audience attention (19:00)The committee's increasing transparency through regular updates has transformed selection from a one-day event into a season-long narrative (20:30)Andy describes his process, noting the challenge isn't just analyzing metrics but predicting how a committee of 12 people will interpret them (28:00)Segment 2: Power Conference Dominance and Mid-Major DisadvantagesThe 2025 tournament saw all four #1 seeds reach the Final Four, potentially reinforcing the committee's tendency to favor power conference teams (10:00)Andy expresses disappointment with how top mid-majors like Drake were treated on the seed list, noting how close they came to missing the tournament entirely despite outstanding seasons (59:00)Viewership for the 2025 tournament increased dramatically (approximately 20%), creating incentives for the committee to continue favoring matchups between power conference teams (67:00)Discussion of how conference realignment has made it nearly impossible for mid-majors to build nationally competitive programs as their best players get poached through the transfer portal (67:00)Segment 3: Analytics and Future ImplicationsThe committee's use of metrics has evolved, with predictive analytics (like KenPom and Torvik) becoming increasingly influential in tournament selection (36:00)Teams now have to consider margin of victory in early-season games, creating a difficult balance between building their metrics and managing player minutes (42:00)Andy evaluates whether the chalky 2025 tournament was a blip or trend, suggesting mid-major disadvantages will continue while the dominance of #1 seeds might be an aberration (89:00)Debate about tournament expansion concludes that while it might benefit mid-majors, it would likely dilute the competitive quality and drama that makes March Madness special (94:00)The episode provides valuable insight into how the modern selection process works while questioning whether the system is becoming too tilted toward power conferences. As the hosts note, the fundamental challenge remains the same: win games, beat good teams decisively, and build a strong enough resume to impress both the metrics and committee members.On the mics: Bob Moats and Mike Wiemuth with Andy Bottoms (The Assembly Call)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 29 offers a comprehensive analysis of Mike Woodson's four-year tenure as Indiana University's basketball coach, examining the factors behind his hiring, the challenges he faced, and the broader implications for college basketball coaching searches at traditional powerhouse programs.Hosts Bob Moats and Mike Wiemuth are joined by Josh Burton of Everything College Basketball to discuss how Woodson's departure represents a cautionary tale about bringing NBA coaches without college experience to the collegiate level, while also exploring how the transfer portal era is reshaping basketball programs at all levels.Segment 1: The Challenge of NBA-to-College Coaching TransitionsNBA-to-college coaching transitions have a mixed track record (Penny Hardaway, Juwan Howard, Mike Woodson), with most struggling to adapt to the complexities of the college gameThe college coaching environment requires significantly different skills than the NBA: recruiting, player development, NIL management, and relating to much younger athletesCollege basketball demands systems that maximize less developed players, while NBA coaching often assumes elite talent that can create their own opportunitiesWoodson faced a substantial age gap (often 40+ years) with his players, creating challenges in connecting with and developing young talentThe role of a college coach as GM, recruiter, and developer requires much more multifaceted skills than NBA coaching positionsSegment 2: The Woodson Era's Strategic FailuresWoodson's offensive system remained rooted in outdated basketball philosophy, featuring two traditional bigs clogging the paint rather than adapting to modern spacing conceptsIndiana consistently ranked among the nation's worst in three-point attempt rate (321st, 350th, 351st, and 321st in his four seasons)Several talented guards (Tamar Bates, Kalib Banks, CJ Gunn) transferred away from Indiana and flourished elsewhere in systems that maximized their skillsWoodson's inability to adapt his system to modern basketball led to predictable offensive struggles against teams that employed drop coverage defenseWoodson's reliance on Trayce Jackson-Davis' individual brilliance masked tactical shortcomings early in his tenureSegment 3: Recruiting Challenges and Program DirectionWhile Woodson improved Indiana's recruiting profile compared to the Archie Miller era, he struggled to land elite guards after early success with Jalen Hood-SchifinoWoodson went 0-for-31 on top-100 guard offers after Hood-Schifino committedNotable recruiting misses including Braelon Mullens, Liam McNeely, and Boogie Fland severely limited Indiana's ceilingThe center-focused offensive style likely deterred elite guards from committing to IndianaWoodson's alleged lack of effort in recruitment (reportedly going months without contacting five-star in-state recruit Braelon Mullens) reflected broader questions about his commitment to the modern demands of college coachingSegment 4: Legacy and Lessons for Blue Blood ProgramsWoodson's tenure represents a transitional period that did leave the program in somewhat better shape than he found it (went 2-2 against Purdue after Archie Miller went 0-7)Never had a losing season, made two NCAA tournaments, and raised Indiana's recruiting profileTraditional programs like Indiana must be willing to take bold coaching risks rather than "safe" options to return to elite statusThe transfer portal era makes program rebuilding potentially faster but requires coaches who fully embrace modern basketball philosophy and recruitingIndiana and other blue blood programs risk continued decline and fan apathy if they don't adapt to the changing landscape of college basketballThis episode provides a thoughtful examination of how the transition from NBA to college coaching often fails due to fundamental differences in the required skill sets and approaches. The discussion highlights how college basketball's evolution demands coaches who can adapt to modern offensive principles, navigate the transfer portal era effectively, and fully commit to the demanding schedule of recruiting.The conversation serves as a valuable case study for athletic directors and programs considering similar hires, emphasizing the importance of selecting coaches with a deep understanding of the college game's unique dynamics rather than relying solely on professional pedigree or alumni connections.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this special live episode, hosts Bob Moats and Mike Wiemuth break down Indiana's hiring of Darian DeVries as the program's 31st head basketball coach. The hosts dive into DeVries's background, coaching philosophy, and what Hoosier fans can expect moving forward with a mix of cautious optimism and analytical insight.The conversation explores DeVries's impressive track record at Drake (where he won 25 games per season at a program that averaged just 13 wins before his arrival) and his promising single season at West Virginia. The hosts examine his offensive and defensive systems, recruiting success, and why IU fans should be excited about the future while maintaining realistic expectations.What You'll Hear:Why DeVries's Drake teams overachieved compared to the program's historical averages by a remarkable marginHow DeVries runs a modern five-out offense that creates space, emphasizes ball movement, and generates quality three-point shotsDetails on his defensive approach that emphasizes ball pressure, communication, and disrupting passing lanesThe impact Tucker DeVries (his son and a potential transfer) could have on IU's rosterWhy DeVries might be able to turn the program around quickly with Indiana's NIL resourcesThis episode strikes a balance between enthusiasm for the future and an understanding that championship-level success takes time. As the hosts point out, DeVries wasn't necessarily on many fans' radar initially, but his track record of program-building and ability to win immediately at both Drake and West Virginia make him an intriguing hire for a program looking to return to national prominence.Whether you're thrilled, skeptical, or somewhere in between about the hiring, this episode provides valuable context about what DeVries brings to Bloomington and what to watch for as he begins building his program at Indiana.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 27 offers a comprehensive year-in-review of the 2024-2025 college basketball season, examining both expected outcomes and surprising developments as the NCAA Tournament field is set.Bob Moats and Mike Wiemuth analyze the shifting conference power dynamics, team regressions, and unexpected success stories while reflecting on what these patterns reveal about modern college basketball.Segment 1: Conference Consolidation and Power DynamicsThe SEC dominated the tournament field, with all but two conference teams making the tournament, reflecting a growing gap in athletic talent similar to football's development in the 1990sConference consolidation has created clear tiers of power, with the SEC and Big Ten at the top, followed by the Big 12 and ACCThe hosts discuss the "eye test" difference when watching SEC/Big 12 teams compared to other conferences, particularly in athleticism and physicalityTeams like Purdue and UConn experienced predictable regressions after losing transformative players like Zach Edey and Donovan ClinganSegment 2: Surprising PerformancesWisconsin transformed from a traditionally slow, methodical program to a high-scoring team averaging 80 points per gameLouisville under Pat Kelsey made a remarkable turnaround from 8-24 (185th in KenPom) to 27-7 (23rd in KenPom) and an 8-seedPenn State didn't make the expected leap under Mike Rhoades despite early promising signsKentucky, Michigan, and Louisville all exceeded expectations under new coaches despite initial fan skepticism about their hiresHouston became a more complete team by improving their offensive efficiency and three-point shooting while maintaining elite defenseSegment 3: Indiana's Season and Coaching ChangeIndiana finished on the wrong side of the NCAA Tournament bubble as the "first team out" after a disappointing 10-10 conference recordAnalysis of why highly-touted transfer guards Myles Rice and Kanaan Carlyle underperformed relative to statistical projectionsDiscussion of how roster construction and offensive system limited the team's ceiling despite having talented individual playersA brief discussion on the ongoing coaching search, noting that patience is important as the most successful coaching hires often come later in the cycleThis episode provides a thoughtful examination of how program building works in modern college basketball, illustrating how coaching, system fit, and player development determine which teams rise and fall each season.The discussion offers valuable context for understanding the cyclical nature of program success in an era of increased player movement and conference realignment.Links:The Cranberries - Zombie (Alt. Version)"The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald" - Gordon Lightfoot (HD w/ Lyrics)1985 Bears: The Greatest Defensive Season of All-Time! | Legendary TeamsWhy is Northern Ireland Obsessed with the Colour Orange?Ryan's Daughter (1970) TrailerJohn Andretti - 2009 Indianapolis 500 Bump Day Qualifying RunThe Dirty Dozen (1967) - Blowing The Chateau Scene (9/10) | MovieclipsTHE QUIET MAN ('52) | Final Fight Scene ☘️

In episode 26, hosts Bob Moats and Mike Wiemuth welcome guest Ryan Phillips from The Assembly Call to discuss coaching search dynamics in college basketball, particularly focusing on Indiana's current situation following Mike Woodson's departure announcement.Segment 1: The Wall of Sound and SilenceThe hosts explore the challenging information landscape during coaching searches, comparing it to "Schrodinger's cat" – everyone desperately wants to know what's happening inside a sealed box that won't be opened until an official announcement is made. This creates fertile ground for rumors, flight tracking, and what Bob calls "horse-farm theories."Ryan provides fascinating insider perspective on how reporters navigate these waters, sharing the rules he follows during searches and why information is always shared for a reason. The conversation reveals why back-channel communications might be happening now, but serious discussions typically don't heat up until conference tournaments begin.Segment 2: Cracking the CodeWhat separates successful coaching hires from disappointments? The hosts examine surprising data about coaching longevity across Division I and what it reveals about hiring practices. Mike introduces a particularly compelling statistical predictor that has shown remarkable consistency in forecasting which coaches succeed at championship levels – with only one exception since the 1960s.This leads to a thoughtful discussion about whether athletic directors should move more quickly on coaching changes in today's landscape. Ryan offers a compelling perspective on why programs like Indiana "can't afford to miss again" and the potential long-term consequences if they do.Segment 3: Indiana's Next MoveThe hosts exchange views on what Indiana should prioritize in its next coach, discussing specific candidates who might align with what they call the "theory of opposites." They debate the merits of coaches like Scott Drew and T.J. Otzelberger, with each host revealing their personal preferences.Ryan makes an intriguing prediction about the possibility of a completely unexpected hire, explaining why coaching moves that "come out of left field" are increasingly common in today's college basketball environment. The episode concludes with a tribute to actor Gene Hackman and his iconic portrayal of basketball coach Norman Dale in "Hoosiers."See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of X's and Joe's, Bob and Mike explore how the 3-point shot has revolutionized basketball, examining its evolution from gimmick to fundamental strategy and its impact on modern offensive systems.Bob Moats and Mike Wiemuth trace the history of the 3-point line from its origins in early professional leagues through its adoption across all levels of basketball, while analyzing how it has transformed everything from youth player development to collegiate offensive systems.The discussion is particularly timely given recent coaching changes at programs like Indiana, Kentucky, and Michigan, where offensive philosophy and three-point shooting strategy may play a key role in future hires.Against the backdrop of increasing three-point frequency across college basketball (from 30% of shots in 2000 to nearly 40% in 2025), the hosts examine how spacing, penetration, and player development have evolved to maximize this offensive weapon.Segment 1: The Origins and Evolution of the Three-Point Shot:• Early implementation as a gimmick in the ABA and ABL leagues• Adoption timeline across professional, international and college basketball• Analysis of three-point frequency and efficiency trends over 25 years• Impact of rule changes like shot clock and three-point line distanceSegment 2: Player Development and Modern Offensive Strategy:• Changes in youth basketball development emphasizing perimeter skills• Influence of international players like Oscar Schmidt and Arvydas Sabonis• Importance of quick decision-making and catch-and-shoot mechanics• Evolution of transition offense and spacing concepts• Role of penetration in creating three-point opportunitiesSegment 3 and wrap up: Coaching Changes and Future Implications:• Discussion of how three-point philosophy may influence coaching hires• Analysis of recent changes at Kentucky and Michigan showing trend toward modern offenses• Examination of fan expectations regarding offensive style• Balance between three-point shooting and driving ability in modern systemsReferences:1987 Pan American Basketball Final Brasil vs UsaHow Good Was Arvydas Sabonis Actually?COOPER DEJEAN PICK SIX IN THE SUPER BOWL Louie Dampier Career HighlightsNBA initially hated the 3-point shot when ABA first introduced it at the start of 1967–68 season1988 Olympics Basketball Semifinal USA 76 USSR 82See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 24 of Xs and Joes, hosted by Bob Moats and Mike Wiemuth, explores the complex dynamics of program expectations in college basketball, with special guest Jerod Morris of The Assembly Call.The discussion examines how expectations are formed, managed, and evolve in modern college athletics, using Indiana basketball as a primary case study while drawing broader insights about fan psychology and program management.Segment 1: Formation of ExpectationsHow expectations are established through program history and leadershipDifferences in expectations across various levels of competitionRole of program leadership in setting the tone and standardsImpact of tradition on fan expectations and program identitySegment 2: Modern ChallengesEvolution of fan-program relationship in social media eraImpact of NIL on program-fan dynamicsBreakdown of traditional barriers between fans and playersBalance between maintaining standards and showing patienceImportance of program identity and "non-negotiables"Segment 3: Managing ExpectationsAnalysis of high-profile programs' unique challengesNeed for clear program vision and communicationBalance between high standards and realistic goalsRole of coaches in shaping and managing fan expectationsImportance of program identity in maintaining fan supportThe episode offers valuable insights into how successful programs navigate the challenges of high expectations while adapting to modern college athletics' changing landscape.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosts Bob Moats and Mike Wiemuth provide an emergency analysis of Indiana University basketball's current state following concerning recent losses and program developments.Segment 1After briefly discussing their recent trip to Philadelphia and the historic Palestra, they examine the underlying factors contributing to IU's current struggles:The unique nature of Mike Woodson's hiring and the dual expectations he facedEarly successes in his first two years followed by concerning regression in year threeRecruitment challenges, including going 0-31 on top-100 guard offers and losing key commitmentsSegment 2The hosts provide detailed analysis of ten key indicators that typically signal problems for a coaching tenure, based on Mike Wiemuth's research into coaching transitions:Lack of winning relative to expectations: Despite a 14-5 record, recent blowout losses and struggles against top competition are concerningUnderperformance against rivals/contemporaries: Particularly notable given Purdue's success and recent losses to programs like LouisvilleErosion of trust with local coaching networks: Limited engagement with high school and AAU coaches, with many lacking direct contact with the staffDeclining attendance: Notable student section departures during games and increasingly visible empty seatsLoss of attraction with high-impact recruits: Going 0-31 on top-100 guard offers and losing key commitments like Liam McNeelyIncreased media speculation: Growing national coverage questioning the program's directionStaff stability concerns: While more stable than previous struggling tenures, signs of stress appearingSocial media sentiment: Reaching concerning 3-to-1 negative to positive ratio thresholdsNegative program leaks: Increasing behind-the-scenes stories emergingVocal fan displeasure: Growing audible frustration at home games, which research shows is often a late-stage indicatorThe hosts note that these indicators tend to build on each other, creating momentum that becomes increasingly difficult to reverse.Segment 3 and wrap upThe hosts discuss how to approach the remainder of the season as fans:Acknowledge that events are largely beyond fan controlUnderstand that while turnarounds are possible, they become increasingly improbableRoot for the current players while being realistic about the situationRecognize that significant changes may be coming regardless of late-season resultsThroughout the episode, they emphasize providing analytical context rather than advocacy, helping fans understand the mechanics and patterns of college basketball programs during challenging transitions.The episode ends with some lighter discussion of their recent Philadelphia trip, including authentic cheesesteaks and the historic Palestra.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosts Bob Moats and Mike Wiemuth explore the concept of momentum in college basketball programs - what it really means, how it manifests, and what drives it in both positive and negative directions.Segment 1After briefly discussing recent football playoffs, they dive into defining program momentum and how it differs from game-level momentum. They explore how momentum is more about perception and emotional reactions from various stakeholders (fans, recruits, media, etc.) than purely on-court performance.Key points:Momentum is easier to identify than define - it's like "knowing it when you see it"Social media acts as an accelerator of momentum, both positive and negativeMomentum involves multiple actors including coaches, players, fans, administration, and media all reacting to events and each otherSegment 2The hosts examine specific examples of program momentum, both positive and negative:Penn State under Mike Rhoades showing positive momentum despite coaching changeMichigan's transition from Juwan Howard to Dusty MayNorth Carolina's gradual decline under Hubert DavisVillanova's struggles under Kyle NeptuneThey discuss how momentum can be affected by:Coaching changesRecruiting success/failureFan engagementMedia coverageRegional rivalriesProgram expectationsSegment 3The conversation shifts to Indiana basketball's current momentum situation, examining:Recent recruiting setbacksEarly season performance concernsProgram expectations vs realityThe challenges of rebuilding momentum at a historically prominent programThe episode concludes with a tribute to Dick Van Arsdale, former Indiana University basketball great who recently passed away.Throughout the discussion, Bob and Mike emphasize how momentum is about long-term patterns rather than individual events, and how it's often easier to lose momentum than to gain it, especially after a program's "honeymoon period" ends.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of Xs and Joes, the crew explores how college basketball programs try to use pace of play to their advantage, bringing in Coach Tonsoni and Coach Adragna to provide tactical insights.The discussion examines how tempo and pace interact with personnel, recruiting, and program philosophy in modern college basketball. Our panel explores how some traditionally slower-paced programs like Wisconsin are adapting to modern play styles, while others like Virginia maintain their methodical approach.They also analyze how factors like the transfer portal and player development are forcing programs to evolve their systems and pace of play.Segment 1Everyone says they want to play "fast" (except members of the Bennett family) so why don't they?Why do coaches want to push or pull back tempo? What are the advantages and disadvantages in playing at certain paces?What do teams do to control the pace of play? What can a team do on both ends of the floor to pressure an opponent?How total number of possessions can be misleading in how fast some teams want to play?Segment 2So, who is actually playing fast (like Wisconsin is...for them...this year) and how are they doing it?What are some faster playing programs doing differently to get a quicker shot?How are teams slowing down opponents' offenses but getting out ahead in transition or after a score?How has overall roster moves and lineup construction impacted a team's pace of play?Segment 3 and wrap upHow is a faster pace of play "modern" basketball even though teams have played "fast" (or taken lousy fast shots) throughout the ages?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This episode examines how college basketball programs experience and handle regression, exploring both historical patterns and current examples of teams navigating performance declines. Bob Moats and Mike Wiemuth break down what separates programs that successfully bounce back from those that struggle to recover, while examining different strategies for mitigating regression's impact.Segment 1: Understanding RegressionHall of Fame coaches like Tom Izzo demonstrate that program success follows peaks and valleys rather than steady progressionSupporting players' statistical performance is significantly influenced by playing alongside All-American caliber teammatesMatt Painter's tenure at Purdue shows clear cycles of program building and regressionThe "Baby Boilers" to "Johnson years" transition illustrates how roster turnover impacts program stabilityDiscussion of how coach evaluation timelines have shortened in the transfer portal eraSegment 2: Teams on Regression WatchAnalysis of Purdue's outlook after losing Zach Edey and the challenges of maintaining elite statusTennessee's adaptation to losing Dalton Knecht and their defensive identityExamination of Baylor's roster construction and recruiting approachThe impact of minutes continuity on program stability and performanceHow conference strength affects a program's ability to manage regressionSegment 3: Bouncing BackComparison of Indiana and UCLA's different approaches to rebuilding through the transfer portalNotre Dame's focus on high school recruiting under Micah ShrewsburyCincinnati's emergence under Wes Miller through balanced recruitingThe role of program resources and brand in determining rebuild strategyHow NIL and the transfer portal have changed the timeline for program turnaroundsFor coaches, administrators, and invested fans, this episode provides context for understanding the cyclical nature of program success and offers insights into how modern programs can manage inevitable downturns. The discussion helps set realistic expectations while examining the various paths programs can take to maintain or regain competitive status.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bob, Mike, and special guest Robie Malcomson discuss how opportunities for athletes to earn NIL and share revenue are transforming the competitive landscape in college basketball.Segment 1: How Does This New Landscape Impact How We See “Amateur” Athletics?Who were Jim Thorpe, Phil Dickens, Sam Gilbert and Curt Flood? Why Do They Matter Here?Why Could We Add Ed O'Bannon To This Group? How Has His Case Paved The Way For Direct Compensation?In The Era of Tik Tok Stars and Influencers: Is Anyone Really an Amateur?Segment 2: What Are The Impacts Of Paid Players On Who Finds Success (and Who Doesn't)?What Pathways Have We Or Could We See For High Major/Mid Major/Low Major Schools?How Have Other Related Yet Distinct Factors Also Have Impacted Teams and Programs? Why Water May Find Its Level In The Coming Years Like It Has In Other Sports Models?Segment 3 and Wrap Up: How Will The 2024-25 Season (and particularly IU's Activity) Demonstrate Some Of This And What We're Looking For? Some relevant videos and articles:Sparta v ThebesO'Bannon v NCAACurt FloodJim ThorpeMary Lou RettonMcCaskeys and Kevin WarrenRobie is host of the Trapped in History podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trapped-in-history/id1753424077See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bob and Mike open with some discussion about (what else?) IU football, as well as Hoosier Hysteria and some IU basketball recruiting.Then it's down to business for the main segment, which is dedicated to one of the most common buzzwords heard today when watching hoops: “modern” basketball.What exactly does that term? And how are offensive and defensive systems evolving?Segment 1: If Everyone Runs Motion and Plays Help Defense, Why Does It Look Different Than It Did?What is a “good” shot? Getting Your Shot and Preventing The Other Guy From Getting TheirsWhat It Was and What It's Evolved Into? The Move From Passing to Dribble PenetrationHow Do You Balance The Need For Freedom Against the Necessity of Structure?Segment 2: Leads, Posts and Wings- How Changes In Player Skill and Athleticism Is The Leading Factor In What Teams Do. What Does The Modern Player Look Like? (And Yes, They Are Built Better) Why Team Chemistry Still Matters A Great Deal? Longevity + Culture= WinningDavids and Goliaths: How To Mitigate Your Weaknesses Versus Your Opponent's Strengths?Segment 3 and Wrap Up: The World Is Flat: An Idea and Innovation Can Span The Globe The Next DaySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's October, the month of scares and frights. So what better time to dive into one of the most terrifying subjects in sports: the psyche of fans!Specifically, Bob and Mike analyze fan biases and how they're evolving. They also discuss the impact of these biases, and the expectations they create, on programs and coaches.Segment 1: Why *Do* Fans See Their Program As “The Unicorn” in a Field of Plow Horses?What Are Frequently Seen Fan Biases?How Have Those Biases Played Out Over The Years? How Are Biases Evolving?Segment 2: How Do Biases Impact What A Program Does?What Does Playing (Your School's) Basketball Actually Mean?Why Are These Players (Your School's) Type of Player?What Are Outcomes of “Divergences” Between Fans' Biases and Programs' Paths? Segment 3 and Wrap Up: Why Do We (Mike and Bob) Do This To Ourselves In Our Personal Fandom?In their next episode, Bob and Mike will discuss modern basketball and how both offensive and defensive systems are evolving. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bob and Mike take a little detour from their typical college basketball deep dives to discuss the most exciting current topic in Indiana sports: college football!They share their own college football stories, look around the college football landscape, and discuss the encouraging beginning to the Curt Cignetti Era.Two videos mentioned during their discussion:1991 Florida State at Michigan1979 Holiday Bowl: Indiana v BYUSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bob, Mike, and special guest Beau Haynes discuss the past, present, and future of the vaunted blue-blood head coaching job. How much have things really changed?Segment 1: What Makes A Program's Blood Blue?Which program are at the top of the social register and how did they get there?How do their fans and the program set expectations and maintain “standards?”The search for the next Lama, Pop, or Godfather: why are blue-blood hires different?Segment 2: Do These “Blue Blood” Designations Really Matter Anymore?Why do prospective hires see offers they can refuse?Do 18-year-old kids really know about the history of Chuck Taylor?How have some programs broken into the country club locker room?Segment 3 and Wrap UpDoes the modern landscape allow for true blue bloods anymore? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bob and Mike look back at last season and trace some highs and lows from different teams that went heavy in the portal to build their rosters.Segment 1: How The Portal Worked Well For SomeThe Levels of Success In College Basketball (Chart 1)South CarolinaNorth CarolinaSegment 2: How It Didn't Go Well For Some OthersReviewing The Chip Stack TheoryWashingtonMissouri Segment 3 and Wrap Up: Indiana's Portal HaulSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bob and Mike are joined by Galen Clavio to reflect on one of the most tumultuous times in the history of Indiana University sports: the final years of the Bob Knight.Segment 1: The End of the Beginning to the Beginning of the End: Closing Out the Breaking Away YearsPlaid Jackets to Sweaters, NapTown Rising, and Cowboy Bob Riding Off -- Life in the Mid 80sMoving Past The Brink -- Cracks in the Foundation and Facade A New Sheriff Comes To Town -- Is The Town Big Enough For The Two Of ThemSegment 2: Paradise Lost“We Need Players”- America's New Public University Has An Obsolete Athletics Department “Has The Game Passed Him By”- How Changes In The Game Impacted Mindsets“Death By A Thousand Cuts”- The True Meaning of Zero ToleranceSegment 3 and Wrap Up: Why This Still Matters?Next up, in episode 15, Mike and Bob will be looking at some transfer portal case studies to determine how some teams found success and others found the floor last season.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this edition of Xs & Joes, Bob and Mike discuss a topic of paramount importance to so many college sports programs across the country: history and legacy. How much does it actually matter for present-day winning?Segment 1: How To Define Programs' Legacies?A Winning Tradition: Past Performance Does Not *Necessarily” Predict Future ResultsA Program's Mount Rushmore: The Images That Represent Who You Were And AreAre You Cover or SI or Game Of The Week Worthy: The Changing Landscape of MediaSegment 2: Blue Bloods/New Bloods: Leveraging Your and/or Others' HistoriesHow Some Traditional Powerhouses Have Reinvented ThemselvesHow Other Programs Have Broken Through- Temporary and Consistent PerformersAre We Down or Dilapidated- When Does A Program Become “Grey Gardens”Segment 3 and Wrap Up: Traditions and Fight Songs And Mike and Bob tease a special guest for episode 14: Galen Clavio!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this edition of Xs & Joes, Bob and Mike record an episode they've been wanting to record for a while: a deep dive on freshman expectations.Elite-level freshmen arrive on campus with high expectations, but at what level of fairness to them? How much is reasonable to expect from a freshman?That's the main topic this week. Bob and Mike open with discussion about their summer travels, Tony's book, Austin Render's new BHN podcast The Dribble Drive.And, of course, they discuss Homefield's Sweet Summer Seven Subscription Box.Segment 1: Help Is On The Way: What Are Expectations Placed on First Year Players?• What Do Coaches Expect? (Slides 1-4)• How Does That Match Up To Players' Views On Their Roles? • Should Fans Be More Realistic In Their Expectations?Segment 2 Crossing The Sinai Desert: How To Judge A Freshman's Contributions? • What Does A High Level Freshman Performance Look Like?• What Does A “Failed” Freshman Year Look Like? • What Is A Good Baseline Of Expectation? Segment 3: The Future of FreshmenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this edition of Xs & Joes, Bob and Mike step back into their wheelhouse: busting myths … or in this episode's case, maybe killing sacred cows?They open with a wistful goodbye to the Irish Lion and discuss everyone's most beloved collegiate apparel company.Then it's time for a frank discussion about the film that helped cement Indiana's reputation as the basketball state in the minds of so many.Segment One dives into the real story that inspired Hoosiers: the Milan Miracle.What really happened in 1954?How did the timing of Hoosiers' release impact its cultural significance?Why it is still such a great and relevant movieSegment Two then dives into the misguided mythos of Hoosiers.Native Indiana players always have a reputation for punching above their weightPersonal fan preferences are superior to proven methods by winning programsTeams should win more with less talentBob and Mike close with a discussion about the recently deceased Tates Locke, who had a strong Bob Knight connection, and another Indiana-based basketball movie.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this edition of Xs & Joes, Bob and Mike welcome Coach Adragna to the show.They open with a discussion about how they all met and discuss Tony's background as a coach. This includes discussion of how Tony proposed to his wife, which any IU fan will be able to appreciate.Then they turn their attention to the strange marriage between coaching and analytics. How should analytics be used to analyze and improve a team's performance? How are they actually used? How could they be used better? Then they dive into Indiana's incoming transfers and what IU fans should expect from the revamped roster.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this edition of Xs & Joes, Bob and Mike turn their attention to the transfer portal. They discuss some misconceptions and myths, how it's impacting the Sweet Spot, what we're learning about the best way to balance portal recruiting and high school recruiting, and much more.Segment 1: Why Would a Kid Want to Leave “My School”?Misconceptions and Myths- Things Aren't Always What They Appear To BeCurrent State of The Portal in Summer 2024- Overviews of Where Things AreApplying Metrics to Players To Estimate Impact- We're Going to Talk BPM (Slides 1-2)And more.Segment 2: What are some of the early findings with the Portal? How is The Portal impacting the “Sweet Spot”? (Slides 3-4)When is The Portal a proactive choice or a reactive decision? (Slide 5)What is the best path for an incoming coach? (Slide 5)Segment 3 and Wrap UpSummer Deeper Digs: How Can You Help?Plus, More Fun Stuff Coming…See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this edition of Xs & Joes, Bob and Mike turn the topics over to the listeners. We gathered a bunch of questions in Substack and Discord, and they go deep on the answers.Among the questions and topics discussed:Mike explains his scoring system for individual playersDoes Indiana need a full rebuild?Are IU fans delusional in the expectation that IU will ever achieve relevancy within the conference, let alone nationally?Who would be your ideal 6 players for IU to add to next year's team?The widespread utilization of outside consulting groups/3-party vendors across college basketballWhat is your guys' demeanor as you watch IU games?What happened to NIL being about repping local businesses or getting a portion of merch sales?Is Mike's expertise used professionally (reimbursement) by teams, leagues, coaches, ADs etc., etc. at either collegiate or professional level and in what way?What are the effects on IU, both negative and “positive,” with Purdue making a run to the Final Four for the first time in 44 years?In the top performing teams, are there any clear trends with regard to positional size leading to more wins?And … what is the greatest decade for rock and why is Mike wrong saying it's not the 70's?And more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this edition of Xs and Joes, Bob and Mike take a look back at the current college basketball season that is nearing its conclusion and analyze some interesting trends and teams that were better/worse than expected. Plus … some IU talk.In this episode …Segment 1: How was the game played? Some subtle trends that kinda surprised us…Death of a Controversy- Impact of the Block/Charge RuleThe Ball Screen Revolution Has Been Televised (Charts 1 and 2)A Tale of Two Portals- Knecht vs TimberlakeSegment 2: Team X Shouldn't Have Been That Good/Bad (or Made That Move)1) These Teams Were Better Than We (Or One Of Us) Thought They'd Be2) These Teams Were Worse Than We (Or One Of Us) Thought They'd Be3) Early Coaching Exits…The Demise of The Class of 2017Segment 3 and Wrap Up: Indiana: Guess We Should Talk About ItNote: The next episode of Xs and Joes will be an AMA (Ask Me Anything) episode. Stay tuned for details on how to submit questions for that episode. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this special edition of Xs and Joes, Bob and Mike welcome longtime Indiana fan, coach, referee, and all-around good dude Sam Story (CoachSS) to the show.The three longtime friends and college hoops fans engage in a deep dive on how winning college basketball programs evaluate, determine, and land the players and coaches who are best for them.In this episode …Segment 1: What traits are college coaches and recruiting evaluators looking at with prospective players? What information should fans look at as legitimate versus noise?Segment 2: What are the stages and levels of recruiting? How does it translate to other positions like coaching and program/department administration? Segment 3: How does a program's overall performance, resources, image and style impact who and how they recruit? (We might just talk about IU here)Wrap Up: The confluence of Quantity Theory of Money and the free movement of human assets in an unregulated marketplace: What the world looks like with the transfer portal, NIL and the retrenchment of the NCAA. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In Episode 5, Mike and Bob take a deep dive into rivalries and the many critical roles they play in the college sports ecosystem -- not just for fans, but for coaches and administrators too.In this episode …Segment 1: One, Two, Three, Four … wait, what are we fighting for?Why are there no moral absolutes in the souls of fans?What are rivalries and how do they happen?Why do we see prestige as a “zero sum” game?Segment 2: The Constant Battle of Keeping Ahead (or Up With) The JonesesHow does the performance of a rival drive our greatest fears or confirm our greatest hopes?When does a rival push a program to make substantive changes?Why are rivals, oftentimes, polar opposites of one another in their style?Segment 3: Telling what we truly think: What are Mike's and Bob's deep feelings and thoughts on rivals?PurdueKentuckyWhy is this healthy? We hope…Wrap-Up: How could and have changes in conferences and throughout athletics impact functional rivalries and why these matchups need special consideration?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In Episode 4 of Xs and Joes, Mike Wiemuth (iu-in-philly) and Bob Moats (cbobmoats) tell the origin story of The Sweet Spot™ -- what it is, how it came about, and what it means for hanging banners.In this episode ...Segment 1: How Two Frequent Title Winners Tried Change The Game?Get Dudes and Win- The Blended Recruiting Tracks to Titles (Slides 1 and 2)The Calipari Doctrine: Talent Over Experience Every Time (Slide 3)Coach K Becomes a Disciple of the OAD Strategy (Slide 3)Segment 2: What Did Blended Tracks Look Like During the OAD Transition?Butler, VCU, and Wichita State- Mid Major BreakthroughsPurdue- The Baby Boilers, Effective Players, then a Quest for Higher Level TalentIndiana- A Total Rebuild, A Movement and A Rapid DeclineSegment 3: What Were The Consequences of The Heavy OAD Teams?2016 and 2017- How Villanova and UNC were different (Slide 4)Two Tracks and the Baby Blue Utopian SpotThe Sweet Spot of The Highest Level of Talented Players Staying For Multiple Years (Slides 5-10)Epilogue: Dean Wormer Talks with Cal and Coach K (Slide 11)Get the slides here: https://www.assemblycall.com/p/xj4See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In Episode 3 of Xs and Joes, Mike Wiemuth (iu-in-philly) and Bob Moats (cbobmoats) dive into what makes for good roster construction and analyze a few of this season's rosters from across the country.In this episode …Segment 1: A High Performing Roster: A simple yet very difficult thing to do.1) Follow the Shoe/Follow the Gourd: How do we, oftentimes, miss the point of Rankin/Bass by thinking that “misfits” have clear, binary paths?2) The Sweet Spot Performance Curve: Why are OADs better than most other freshmen but are, usually, not as good as Sweet Spot Upperclassmen? (Charts)3) The only thing that matters…is it working? Can the Good, the Bad and the Ugly basically be the same thing?Segment 2: Model Rosters: Who they are and how are they performing1) UConn: Could they be the last to “do it this way”? What the model program actually looks like. (Team Sheets)2) Kentucky: Is this your dad's UK team? How shooting has changed some things in Lexington. 3) Michigan State: Can you blame players for “effort” or is there shared responsibility here? The parts can be greater than the sum. Segment 3: Misfit Rosters: What are they trying to do and how are they doing it?1) Purdue: Can a true system-scoring-based team actually achieve at the highest level? Just how much can you exponentially increase the sum of the parts.2) Houston: Will they continue to stifle in the toughest conference in D1? Small ball and lockdown faces a great overall test. 3) Indiana: Do they have what it takes to get somewhere? Is the gun loaded or do they need a shovel? Segment 4: ResultsYou will not win a National Title, a Conference Title or even gain a tournament berth in the first half of the season, but you certainly can lose one. Where do you need to be at the end? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In Episode 2 of Xs and Joes, Mike Wiemuth (iu-in-philly) and Bob Moats (cbobmoats) dive into what really creates momentum -- and possibly even stability -- for new coaches.As usual, when you take a peek under the hood, the factors lead that lead to success or failure may not quite be what you assume.In this episode …Segment One: There are very few happy endings for college coaches How do Mob Movies (Godfather and Scorsese Trilogy) help explain eventual outcomes for college coaches?Job Stability in Coaching: An Oxymoron (Chart)Convening the College of the Cardinals and Getting to White Smoke: Crean to WoodsonSegment Two: The Honeymoon Phase- What Are Danger Signs A Program May Need A Divorce Lawyer Sooner Rather Than Later? Getting The Right Pieces In Place- Assistant Coaches and the First Three ClassesGet Kids Then Win Over Fans- What Role Does Style of Play PlayCan Early Winning Cause Problems Later On?Segment Three: Your Chipstack- What does your stake look like? All Programs Are Not Created Equally- Some Places Are Higher Risk/Higher RewardWhiffs and Losses- Keeping Fans Engaged During The TransitionThe Payoff aka The Extension Season- What Does It Look Like?Segment Four: The Crown Lies Uneasy on the Heads of Mob Bosses and College Coaches: If You Think Getting To The Top Was Tough…Try Staying ThereTo view the visuals used in this episode, click here to download the PDF. (Images arranged in order of how they are displayed and discussed in the episode.) URL: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jtVnG5B6O4xINOkNTTX9Q8YM4m8lJr5H/view?usp=sharingSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In Episode 1 of Xs and Joes, Mike and Bob provide the backstory on their decades-long research project and conversation trying to identify what it takes to build a winner in college basketball. Then they jump right into exploring one of the Big Questions they've been wrestling with since 1996.Here's the outline for the episode:Segment One: The Conversation at 7th and Washington that launched the primary question. 1) Dec. 7th, 1996...A Date That Lives In Infamy.2) Comparing the two teams3) The Initial Findings: Talent does matter, and IU was quite talented in their heydaySegment Two: The Hoosiers Mythos: The movie is not a documentary.1) Mike's Process: How Excel aggregated the paradigm?2) Elements of Winning Programs: Two Good Examples and Butler. 3) "Convincing" the BarbershopSegment Three: Is talent enough? 1) 2015: Wisconsin Saves the 1976 Legacy2) The Tobacco Road Scrolls: Dean Smith on System vs Flexible Coaching3) What this means for IU right now? Can Woodson get "buy in"?Segment Four: 1996-97 Season Epilogue1) A Trip to Tobacco Road, A Disaster, and An Open Practice: recognizing just how special the sauce has to be.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this short trailer, you'll get a taste for what X's and Joe's, hosted by Mike Wiemuth (iu-in-philly) and Bob Moats (cbobmoats), is all about.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.