Hump Day News and Views...

Gomez here...

We're halfway there, folks... just hang on a little while longer... the weekend is now in sight! As you all well know, there's no mid-week game this week, so there's not as much to chat about this morning, but there are a few things worth mentioning...

:: Coach called John Wooden for advice and the old wise one told him he was playing too many players. That might be why Cal has shaved some playing time away from Harris, Dodson and Stevenson as of late. Hood, Harrellson, and Krebs still aren't even getting a sniff, and probably shouldn't expect one. Liggins and Orton are the only two getting significant minutes off the bench right now, and this will likely remain that way as we get closer and closer to tourney time. Harris could be brought in for spot defense work, while Dodson could come in for the outside shooting. However, right now Orton and Liggins seem to be the best option off the bench.

:: In the SEC, Tennessee continues to surprise everyone (or at least me) by winning game after game since losing Tyler Smith. They beat Alabama on the road last night, and as we all know, every road game in the conference is tough. The Vols are playing good basketball right now, and remain a legit threat to challenge Kentucky in the SEC East. Meanwhile, in the west, Mississippi State is looking to hear something on Sidney soon. If they are able to get him in the line-up soon, Mississippi State will be a very tough team to beat. UK visits The Hump on February 16th.

:: Arkansas AD, Jeff Long, went on the record earlier this season saying Pelphrey's job isn't in danger despite some really bad losses. He realizes that the injuries and suspensions that Pelphrey has had to manage have left the Razorbacks shorthanded, to say the least. We don't know how long the patience will remain for Pelphrey to right the ship, but we can hope at least through the remainder of the season and the next. Despite a recent four game losing streak (they're second of the year), the 'Backs are showing some signs of life. They lost by only one point to UAB, played #1 Texas and Mississippi State competitively on the road, and knocked off Alabama over the weekend. Now, the Razorbacks host Florida on Thursday night before travelling to Kentucky on Saturday. Expect the Hawgs to come ready to play.

:: Well, that's all for now. Keep checking back for more updates throughout the day.