The one good thing is we've played Georgetown, so we did play this and have some understanding of it. We got a taste of it. I hope that helps us. At least the older guys have a good feel for what we need to do.

We don't have the great players we had last year, but if we play hard and play together we can be a great team.

If we play hard, play 'D' and play together, we can be a great team. That's why we're 13-0. But if we don't play that way, anybody can play with us.

I think a lot of people thought we'd get to play closer to home. Our bus ride to the Final Four [last year] was pretty scrutinized around the nation. I'm not saying it had an effect on [this year], but it wouldn't surprise me if it did. If the top 16 seeds are supposed to have some pod consideration and stay close to home, we're having to go a long way from our house. I don't think the pod is working in that case.

There's a major difference in his receiver play. He's understanding things a whole lot better. I think he was kind of sitting in the wings a little bit last year. Now he's stepped out and he's making a lot of plays.

I'm just glad we played well tonight. Everyone is understanding their role. We're starting to lift our play with our defense.