"Signature Wins" Which Got Away...

A continuation of our discussion of Cornell's search for "signature wins" in the nonconference schedule...

The Big Red were unsuccessful in pulling off several victories a year ago against BCS level opponents due to a lack of bench depth. In at least seven games against "high majors" a year ago, Cornell was very much still in the game at halftime, only to see the opponent pull away during the second half. If Cornell hopes to win some key non-league games during 2009-2010, the Big Red will have to play "40 minutes" of basketball and get some production from the bench.

Below is a brief summary of Cornell's results against its top 2008-2009 nonconference opponents:

• St. John's (neutral court in NIT), Red Storm knock off Cornell 86-75, but at halftime, Cornell trailed by just just one point, 42-41. Cornell played the game without All-Ivy League guard, Louis Dale.
  
• at Siena, final score, Saints 74 and Big Red 56, but at half, Siena led by by only four, 30-26. Cornell played the game without All-Ivy League guard, Louis Dale.
• at Indiana, Hoosiers prevail 72-57, but at half, just a 35-29 Indiana lead. Cornell played the game without All-Ivy League guard, Louis Dale.
• at Syracuse, Orange win 88-78, but at half, it was Cornell leading 40-35. Cornell played the game without All-Ivy League guard, Louis Dale.
• at Minnesota, Gophers take the win 71-54, but the Big Red led at halftime, 40-28.
• at St. Joseph's, Cornell falls in close 71-67 decision down in Philly.
• vs. Missouri (NCAA Tournament), Cornell falls 78-59. Cornell trailed 29-25 at half.