The view from the Georgia Dome

The dust has settled from Semi-Final Saturday and methinks we couldn't have asked for a more entertaining match-up than what we'll get on Monday night between Michigan and Louisville in the national championship game.  Here's a breakdown of Saturday from my view inside, and outside, the Georgia Dome.

- Pre-game:  Ludacris entertained fans in Centennial Park, close by the dome, at a concert preceding the first game between Louisville and Wichita State.  I determined, though, that my place at Stats at the CBS pre-party  was just fine--a cold beverage, food and a seat overlooking Marietta Street, on a 65 degree day, seemed the better play.

- How were your seats:  The announced attendance was 75,350--keep in mind that about 10% of those in attendance sat in decent seats with reasonable sight lines.

- Air Thompson:  Before there was Air Jordan there was David Thompson, the sky walker from North Carolina State, who unfortunately played in the college age where dunking was not allowed.  Thompson sat in the row ahead of us and sported a Wolfpack polo shirt and cap.

- Best jersey:  The best jersey of the night belonged to a 60+ year old gentleman who sported a top that had "Hickory" on the front and "Chitwood" on the back.  (Fans of Hoosiers will get it...)

- Random sightings in the crowd:  Will Ferrell (isn't he a USC guy?) and Denard Robinson, Michigan's star quarterback.

- Former bench player who now may be a lottery pick:  Mitch McGary of Michigan.  McGary's motor doesn't stop--he had 10 points, 12 boards, 6 assists and 2 blocks last night.

- Second half cool down:  C.J. Fair of Syracuse had 18 points at half but was held in check in the second half, finishing with 22.

- What happened, MCW?  Michael Carter-Williams of Syracuse wilted under Final Four pressure, going one for six from the field, accounting for five turnovers and fouling out, all the while bitching at the officiating crew.

- The mid-major effect:  It will be very interesting to track what Wichita State's Final Four appearance does to school enrollment, and to coach Gregg Marshall's recruiting efforts.  The Shockers return stud Cleanthony Early next year, along with Fred VanFleet, Ron Baker, Tekele Cotton, Chadrack Lufile and Jake White.

- Most vocal fans:  Michigan gets the nod as the most vocal fans, as they were into it from the time the first game ended.  But, seriously, can you all please spend $20 and buy a basketball-related t-shirt versus wearing Michigan football jerseys?  I get the whole Big House tradition and such, but this is hoops, people!