Offical Big12 Championship thread

Ward wins in sudden death overtime. Rode he opponent out for 30 seconds and then got an escape in the 2nd 30 second period. Nicely done by Ward.
 
I know I said Ward didn't impress me previously in this thread but that was a very solid match! Nicely done Ward, get the next one and I think your in (can someone second that?)
 
That gives us 8 automatic qualifiers for NCAAs - everybody but Sanderson and Burke. As long as Sanderson doesn't fall flat on his face, we should have 9 automatic, and Burke will still have a shot at a wild card (assuming he doesn't place third in wrestle backs).
 
That gives us 8 automatic qualifiers for NCAAs - everybody but Sanderson and Burke. As long as Sanderson doesn't fall flat on his face, we should have 9 automatic, and Burke will still have a shot at a wild card (assuming he doesn't place third in wrestle backs).

So ward is in for sure now? I thought he had to get 2.

Also, what chance does Burke have at a wild card? When do they announce them?
 
Varner wins 5 to nothing per the announcer, I must have missed a point for stalling as I had it 4 to nothing. Was hoping for bonus points but a solid win as usual for Varner.
 
so i thought that our wrestlers look like they shrink up as the season goes, especially reader and varner the last 2 years, and ward this year. I asked duke burk's big brother danny burke about it and this is what he said:

I know what you are saying about the way they look. The definitely look smaller than their opponents at a lot of weight classes.
From what I have heard, through Duke, is that they do lift a lot during the season. I think they have been going at least twice a week all year long.
But, I think Cael and the other coaches have a different strategy as far as lifting goes, compared to other programs around the country. I think the ISU guys are "wrestling strong" - meaning, they are strong in the positions that they most normally would get in while wrestling, and they lift with that idea in mind. So, while they do not look big and strong, like other wrestlers from other programs, they actually are strong when it comes to wrestling. I know with Duke, he looks TINY out there at times (a lot to do with being injured and not lifting for 3 months), but he still feels strong.
So, you bring up a great point, but I really think they just have a different method of strength training, and it doesnt show in their appearance.
Let's hope for a great weekend down in Nebraska and another one in 2 weeks in St Louis. Duke, especially, has some work to do, but he has never been so focused or believed in himself this much. ISU has done him wonders, especially the coaching staff. Plus, he has finally been healthy for a month straight for the first time hes been there!