Our thoughts after Kansas push a gigantic dent in Nebraska's NCAA Tourney hopes Saturday.

Bottom Line: Kansas has two players Nebraska doesn't: Cole Aldrich and Sherron Collins. NU head coach Doc Sadler won't give his team an inch on this issue, as he shouldn't but we will. Collins made one great shot after another (including a 3-pointer as the shot clock expired to give KU a 13-point lead in the second half.) Aldrich was a force on both ends of the floor. This was one of those days when guys like Bear Jones and Brian Diaz might have made a big difference. Ah well. Next year.

Stud: Collins. One of his better games of the year, considering Nebraska's tough defense. Collins created a few shots on his own, wisely knew when to take pull jumpers on other possessions, and generally ran the floor like the professional he'll be next year.

Unsung: KU guard Brady Morningstar. Little things, little things, little things. Morningstar pushes the ball upcourt. He runs the floor on defense. He'll tangle with the trees for a rebound. A player who'd fit on Doc Sadler's team.

Stat of the game: When it came to rebounds, the Jayhawks must have put their reservation in a few hours before NU, beating them 46-24. Somewhere, Bill Russell feels pity for the smallish Huskers.

Clever Coaching Move: Sadler tried to use his defensive tricks - the trap, doubling the post - wisely. And, especially in the first half, he largely succeeded. In the second half, Nebraska lost track of Collins and Aldrich a little too often.

Up next: What amounts to an NCAA Tournament elimination game vs. Texas A&M. Neither the Aggies or Huskers can afford to lose it. NU will then have another such contest Saturday at Kansas State.

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