Three Takeaways from tough road loss to Illinois

Indiana's Guards were Exposed

Despite Xavier Johnson's improved play, Indiana's guards were exposed this afternoon. In addition to not making a three-pointer, Indiana's guards were not difference-makers. Indiana's guards shot 11-23 from the field (48.8%). However, they got to the free-throw line just seven times, all by Xavier Johnson.

When you want to play from the inside out, guards need to be able to catch and shoot, penetrate and dish, or both. Indiana does neither well. Also, Malik Mgbako is not a great ball handler on the wing. Trey Galloway is the most athletic back court player Indiana has. He needs to be more assertive. He can get to the basket more often.

There's no way he should ever play an entire game without getting to the free throw line.

Coach Woodson and the Hoosiers should watch tape of Dwight Howard's Orlando Magic team that went to the finals. They got to the basket and dished to Howard, or Howard kicked the ball out to the shooters on the wings. That's how IU needs to play. Right now, the Hoosiers have too many holes that will always cost them in close games.