[duncan_idaho]

I think the defense is slipping because they're playing more conference teams.

Conference teams, in addition to being more talented, also scout Missouri much harder than say, Villanova or California, are able to. They dedicate a coach to scout them, and there is more tape to scout. That scouting plays a big factor.

Another part of the problem is that, because Missouri is so undersized, it has to double in the post in a lot of situations it normally would not. Teams that pass properly out of those double-teams are going to be able to find an open shot somewhere on the floor.

I also think the defense at the point (from Pressey) has not been quite as good or consistent as it was earlier. He seems to be reaching more and moving his feet less, which obviously is not a good combo. Also, because of his size deficiency, Phil is going to have some physical problems keeping guys contained. Basically, if a guy can get a half-step in one direction on Pressey, he has a really tough time recovering. He needs to focus more on staying in front.