Marquette, like several other schools in the Big East Conference, is a non-football school.
Out of sight, out of mind much of the year. Have to keep reminding oneself about the rivalry, even on the eve of the game. Especially during what could be a sub-par season for University of Louisville basketball.
Generating much, if not more, excitement around campus this weekend are the dozen or so football recruits Charlie Strong is bringing to town, including a 6-foot-6, 345-pound offensive lineman named Spencer Region from Alabama. But that’s another story.
Five minutes into a Marquette game, however, one is reminded of how many games between these teams have been decided on last-second shots. It is the rule rather than the exception.
The difference this year is that the game will be played at 10 a.m. Milwaukee time and 11 a.m. Louisville time, with no explanations being offered for the early start. “TV” is not a good reason, and “ESPN-2” isn’t any better. If viewers want to see good basketball, the game should be at least two hours later.
Saturday morning is a time for sleeping in and should be respected. Whoever wakes up, snaps out of the doldrums first will be the winner in this one. Probably by a last second shot.