It sure looks like most of Tariq's points were gained by Bryce putting himself in awkward positions and forcing a few things. This is why we love Bad A$$, because he throws the kitchen sink and usually can pull it off. I know I find him to be the most exciting wrestler in college but tough to do against the top guys. Veteran moves by Tariq though, knowing full well Bryce will not accept boring, non-confrontational wrestling. Even though AOC beat Bryce in follow up matches the gap got closer each time. Additionally, the last few points in the Tariq match were in garbage time, of course they count, you put yourself in desperation mode but BA never quit looking for action. I have a ton of confidence, the ACC final (if they wrestle) will be much more competitive.

Thoughts on Mekhi, maybe a little too much respect for Hayden? Of course HH is awesome, but many of Mekhi's moves were half shots. More good scouting on their part, HH stayed away from Mekhi's lethal leg re-attacks. Even the winning move did not put HH in a vulnerable re-attack position. I trust our staff in game planning how to generate more neutral offense or Mekhi lands that low leg re-attack. I like Mekhi's chances in the rematch, will be another tight one.

Never has a loss made me feel "better" about our chances than Bolen. I was worried that Trent being the "higher ceiling stud recruit" finally really bypassed HB based on how dominant he's been. What I saw was a guy who is every bit still his equal in a head to head match. I think in 5 matches, they each might have 1 takedown each against each other. Trent was closer to a takedown against Brooks than he was against Bolen. HB has not been as dominant as he was in 2020, what a shame because he was the #1 or 2 going into NCAA's IMO. I still believe he can pull a final year Korbin type of effort, realizing if this is it, he can go all in one last time. High AA can be achieved. Its clear he still is defensively excellent.