Thoughts before the Tech rematch

Originally Published: Feb 6, 2010 2:11 PM CDT

The Cowboys will take on Texas Tech in Lubbock this afternoon with a new starting lineup.  Look for Matt Pilgrim, who is coming off 32 points and 19 rebounds in his last two games to be on the floor again at the tip.  Fred Gulley should also be in the starting lineup at the point.

Ray Penn’s availability won’t be known until just before the game.  He’s been practicing more this week as he tries to return from that stress reaction at the top of the tibia in his left leg.

The Red Raiders have had all week to prepare for this rematch, and the consistent theme from the Tech camp has been defense.  That’s that they’ve been working on it, and they’ve needed to.  Tech is last in the Big 12 in scoring defense, giving up almost 83 points per game.

This is a critical stretch for OSU.  There’s a feeling that the Cowboys need to win 3 of the next 4 to boost NCAA Tournament chances.  After today the Pokes have a week off before the Bedlam rematch with Oklahoma in Stillwater.