This has been a wonderful debate and it is great to talk wrestling for a change. Here is my take and I could be wrong so if I am no big deal.

#1 All states need more college wrestling exposure and opportunities, but especially Kansas seeing as how we live here and our wrestlers really do excel year in and year out. Don't forget the number of JUCO kids from out of state that improve their skills from learning some from Kansas, you have to admit there has to be some influence there even if minimal.

#2 It is important to learn how to ride, look at the results from the NCAA finals.

#3 It is important to wrestle on your feet, for set ups, takedowns, defense the whole bit.

#4 you need to be a good defensive wrestler again, an obvious thing.

I could go on and on obviously but my comment here is that every wrestler needs to be a complete wrestler. Certainly all of the ones mentioned were. I have another point though, How many of those wrestled Freestyle, Greco and Folkstyle. I believe that likely most if not all did. That is my point, to be a complete wrestler learning all styles is really important.

Last comment, I know sportsfan was being sarcastic but he makes a great point. If you don't believe it, let me know I have their matches on video and will be glad to see how much those two worked off of their feet. I used to think that my boy was fast, but Shawn Bunch is incredible and his definite strong suit is his feet, Joe is a more complete wrestler, but for either of these guys, forget about riding time being their strong point.