Monday Mailbag: December 17, 2018

SCOTT TRUXELL/independent sports editor

This week’s Monday Mailbag features questions about officiating, scores, defense and the college football playoff.

Q: Does officiating seem worse this year? Name withheld upon request

A: Here’s the thing about officiating – someone is always going to be upset no matter how good or bad the crew is. Regardless of the sport, it’s a tough job and fewer people seem willing to do it these days.

I always tell people if they feel they can do a better job, take the necessary steps to become an official, because there’s a real need for more of them.

Q: Why don’t you have a list of basketball scores like you did during football season? Name withheld upon request

A: That’s something that’s easily fixed. Starting this weekend, we’ll post area boys’ basketball scores, and we’ll do something similar for girls’ hoops as well.

Q: When’s the last time a basketball team was shut out in a quarter?  Name withheld upon request

A: It’s not a common occurrence, but it does happen from time to time and often times it’s a mix of things – good defense and shots that just won’t fall.

Q: You said a couple of weeks ago that you had strong feelings on expanding the college football playoff. Care to share? Name withheld upon request

A: Sure, I’ll share.

For now I’m against expansion to eight teams but I’m guessing it’ll happen at some point, simply because conferences are tired of seeing preferential treatment being given to the SEC.

At the same time, I’m not completely against expanding to six teams, because I think in many years each of those teams would have a legitimate shot at winning the national title. Of course, that would mean the No. 1 and 2 seeds would get a bye, something that may not sit well with a lot of people.

Eight teams seems like nothing but a cash grab to me. Yes, I think it’s odd that there are four playoff spots for the Power 5 conferences, but it truly does make each game count.

If you have a question for next week’s Monday Mailbag, simply email it to sports@thevwindependent.com.