[raffhoops]

The Mount was flat out awful tonight in a home loss to American. The game was tied at 21 with about five minutes left in the first half, but the Eagles controlled everything from there and won easily 66-45.

Give the Jeff Jones coached outfit a little bit of credit for the defensive effort that saw them limit the Mounties to 31.4% from the floor, but much of the Mount's offensive demise was of their own making. Sophomore Jeremy Goode, fresh off the career high 27, was once again the best Mountie on the floor and scored 10 and dished out 5 assists. But the point guard didn't have the ability to beat the Eagles off the dribble like he did at JMU on Saturday and it showed. Plus the defensive help was much better for American.

The Eagles are now 4-3 on the season and will fare ok in the Patriot League. But I wouldn't expect them to win the conference based on the strength that Bucknell and Holy Cross have shown in recent years. But Garrison Carr and Derrick Mercer give them a tough pair of guards who aren't afraid to pressure the ball.

The difference in the game was probably the rebounding. AU controlled the glass 45-29 and I'd like to see some 2nd chance point numbers, because American came away with 18 offensive rebounds. Travis Lay led American with 18 points and also pulled down 7 rebounds.

The Mount will need a much more inspired effort against longtime rival Loyola on Saturday. However, I think the style of play may help the Mount on Saturday. Still, it seems like a long season may be in store.