Matchup History

These two teams have met twice since the 2007 season, with Villanova winning both meetings, including the most recent meeting on November 20^th, 2016, by a final score of 67-57.

UCF Recap

The UCF Knights made it to the College Basketball Crown semifinals by knocking off Cincinnati last time out by a final score of 88-80.

Knights Looking To Reach First D-I Postseason Final In Program History

Keyshawn Hall leads the Knights in scoring and rebounding with 18.8 PPG and 7.1 RPG along with 2.4 APG while Darius Johnson has 17.1 PPG with 3.4 RPG and a team-high 4.3 APG to lead the Knights in the assist department. Jordan Ivy-Curry has 12.4 PPG with 3.2 RPG and 2.3 APG and Moustapha Thiam has 10.6 PPG with 6.3 RPG to round out the group of double-digit scorers for UCF so far this season. As a team, UCF is averaging 79.3 PPG on 42.4% shooting from the field, 33.6% from three and 77.7% from the foul line this season.

Why the UCF Knights will win

• UCF has won each of its last six games against non-Conference opponents.
• Villanova has lost four of its last five day games against non-Conference opponents.

Villanova Recap

The Villanova Wildcats booked their spot in the CBC semifinals after a 60-59 win over USC in their last game.

Wildcats Looking For First Postseason Final Since 2018

Eric Dixon leads Villanova in scoring with 23.1 PPG along with 5.1 RPG while Wooga Poplar has 14.8 PPG with 6.9 RPG to share the team lead in rebounding and Jordan Longino has added 11.3 PPG with 2.4 RPG and 2.4 APG to cap off the trio of double-digit scorers for Villanova up to this point in the year. Jhamir Brickus also has 9.4 PPG with a team-high 4.8 APG to lead the Wildcats in the assist department while Tyler Perkins has 6 PPG with 4.2 RPG and Enoch Boakye has 4.3 PPG with 6.3 RPG of his own this season. As a team, Villanova is averaging 73.4 PPG on 46.2% shooting from the field, 39.8% from three and 80% from the foul line this season.

Why the Villanova Wildcats will win

• Villanova has won each of its last six games against non-Conference opponents.
• UCF has lost each of its last three games against the Big East Conference.

Total Points Facts

• Each of Villanova’s last 18 games against non-AP-ranked opponents have produced a total of 156 or fewer points.
• Twenty-seven of UCF’s last 32 day games against non-Conference opponents have produced a total of 156 or fewer points.

UCF vs. Villanova Prediction

I’m on Villanova in this one. I just think the Wildcats are the better team in this matchup and are the more trustworthy team on both ends of the floor compared to UCF. UCF has a decent perimeter defense, but the Wildcats shoot and hit their threes at such a high rate that I don’t think UCF can keep up trading twos for threes. The Wildcats are also the better rebounding team on both ends of the floor in this matchup and I think that the Wildcats do enough for the win and cover to advance to the inaugural College Basketball Crown title game. Give me Villanova here.

Read the rest of "Villanova vs UCF Prediction 4/5/25 College Basketball Picks Today" at Sports Chat Place

Villanova Wildcats Betting Preview

The Villanova Wildcats recently played Butler, Georgetown, and Seton Hall, UCONN, and Colorado. Villanova has won five of its last seven games.

The Villanova Wildcats are averaging 73.4 points on 46.2 percent shooting and allowing 67.5 points on 43.1 percent shooting. Eric Dixon is averaging 23 points and 5.1 rebounds, while Wooga Poplar is averaging 14.7 points and 6.9 rebounds. Jordan Longino is the third double-digit scorer and Jhamir Brickus is dishing 4.8 assists. The Villanova Wildcats are shooting 39.8 percent from beyond the arc and 80 percent from the free throw line. The Villanova Wildcats are allowing 34.7 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 30.4 rebounds per game.

USC Trojans Betting Preview

The USC Trojans recently played UCLA, Rutgers, Purdue, and Tulane. USC looks to win two straight games for the first time since January 11-14.

The USC Trojans are averaging 76.9 points on 48.2 percent shooting and allowing 75.5 points on 46.1 percent shooting. Desmond Claude is averaging 16 points and 4.3 assists, while Wesley Yates III is averaging 14.1 points and 1.8 assists. Chibuzo Agbo is the third double-digit scorer and Terrance Williams II is grabbing 4.6 rebounds. The USC Trojans are shooting 36.7 percent from beyond the arc and 74.6 percent from the free throw line. The USC Trojans are allowing 32.9 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 28.8 rebounds per game.

USC vs Villanova Injury Report

USC doesn’t have a player listed on its injury report. Villanova will be without Nnanna Njoku, while Aleksandar Gavalyugov is questionable with an illness.

USC vs Villanova Prediction

USC hasn’t been able to string together success this season, and that includes not winning two straight games in months. USC is not great defensively, and it makes the Trojans hard to trust against good teams. Villanova has underachieved all year, but it’s won five of its last seven games and has shown improvement over the last month. Villanova should have a field day against a bad USC defense, and I don’t see who is going to slowdown Eric Dixon. I’ll roll with Villanova to advance in the Crown tournament.

Read the rest of "USC vs Villanova Prediction 4/3/25 College Basketball Picks Today" at Sports Chat Place

Before we dive into the Colorado Buffaloes vs. Villanova Wildcats game let’s review the rules for the Draftkings single game showdown contest.

Draftkings Single Game Showdown Contest Rules

You have $50,000 to utilize on five players from either team. However, one of those players will be designated as your team captain. The captain accumulates 1.5 times the standard fantasy points. Additionally, the captain is 1.5 times the standard cost of the flex position.

The remaining four players in your lineup will receive the standard fantasy points. Having stated that, it is highly important for you to identify the correct player for your captain position if you hope to win a large field DFS GPP (guaranteed prize pool) showdown contest.

If you have additional questions regarding the rules for the single game showdown contest, I recommend that you check out the Draftkings website for more details.

*I recommend that all readers review the starting lineups for both teams prior to setting your DFS lineup for this one game slate.

Here are my Draftkings picks for this evening’s Colorado vs. Villanova matchup.

Draftkings NCAA Basketball Showdown Picks

Captain-Eric Dixon, Forward, Villanova Wildcats $11,200

Tonight, the Colorado Buffaloes and Villanova Wildcats clash in the first round of the College Basketball Crown tournament at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. With that said, who do I like at the captain position in this matchup? In my view, senior forward Eric Dixon fits the narrative as the best player to select at captain. Let’s dive into Dixon’s relevant game data from the 2024 NCAA season to better illustrate the talented forward’s contributions to his team.

In the 32 games that forward Eric Dixon has played for the Villanova Wildcats in the 2024 NCAA season (including postseason games), Dixon is averaging a robust 23.1 points, 5.2 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 0.8 steals and 0.3 steals a game.

Looking closer at the data just presented, in the 32 games that Eric Dixon has played this season, Dixon has compiled a 45.1% field goal percentage, a 25% three-point percentage and a 64.5% free throw percentage.

Last month, in the Villanova Wildcats 80-70 win over the Butler Bulldogs, Villanova Wildcats forward Eric Dixon played exceptionally well. Let me be more specific. Dixon amassed 34 points, seven rebounds, three assists and one steal in the Wildcats victory over the Bulldogs.

Examining the data just presented more closely, in the Wildcats win over the Butler Bulldogs, Eric Dixon tallied a massive 49.3 Draftkings points. Clearly, Eric Dixon can post a high number of DFS points on any given night. I fully expect that trend to continue later today.

As I noted in the rules section above, selecting the correct player at the captain position for a Draftkings NCAA showdown lineup is absolutely vital if you hope to win a large field GPP (guaranteed prize pool) DFS contest. Keep that in mind as you construct your lineups.

In my opinion, Eric Dixon is the most likely player to post the most Draftkings points on this one game DFS slate. Having stated that, I am backing Villanova Wildcats forward Eric Dixon at the captain position for this one game Draftkings NCAA Showdown contest.

Flex Plays

Wooga Poplar, Guard, Villanova Wildcats $12,000

In the 33 games that forward Wooga Poplar has played for the Villanova Wildcats this season, Poplar is averaging 14.5 points, 6.9 rebounds, 1.4 assists, 1.3 steals and 0.3 blocks a game.

Additional flex plays I like to perform well (Draftkings price noted): Bangot Dak, Forward (Colorado Buffaloes) $8,000: Trevor Baskin, Forward (Colorado Buffaloes) $7,000.

Read the rest of "Draftkings NCAA Basketball Picks: Colorado vs. Villanova 4/1/25" at Sports Chat Place

Colorado Buffaloes Betting Preview

The Colorado Buffaloes (14-20, 17-17 ATS) defeated TCU in the final game of the regular season and snapped a three-game losing skid. However, the Buffaloes still finished at the bottom of the Big 12 standings, and many thought they would suffer elimination in the opening round of the conference tournament. Colorado beat TCU again and then West Virginia in the second round, and even though they fought bravely against the No. 1 seed Houston, the Buffaloes were stopped in the quarterfinals,

Colorado averages 69.9 PPG (301st) and allows 71.5 PPG (165th). The Buffaloes are 223rd in rebounds (35.0) and 156th in assists (14.1). Julian Hammond III leads the team with 12.5 PPG, 2.5 RPG, 3.2 SPG, and 1.2 SPG. Andrej Jakimovski follows him with 10.4 PPG, a team-high 5.0 RPG, and 1.1 SPG, while Bangot Dak chips in 8.2 PPG, 3.9 RPG, and a team-high 1.3 BPG.

Villanova Wildcats Betting Preview

The Villanova Wildcats (19-14, 17-16 ATS) were close to getting the fourth straight win and end the regular season in style, but fell short 75-73 to Georgetown. Still, Villanova secured a respectable No. 6 seed for the Big East tournament, where the Wildcats beat Seton Hall 67-55 in the first round but were powerless against the No. 3 UConn, losing 73-56.

Villanova is averaging 73.4 PPG (204th) and is allowing 67.5 PPG (52nd). The Wildcats are getting 33.8 RPG (309th) and dishing out 12.5 APG (308th). Eric Dixon is the team’s top performer with 23.0 PPG, 5.2 RPG, and 2.0 APG. Wooga Poplar has 14.5 PPG, a team-high 6.9 RPG, and a team-high 1.3 SPG, while Jordan Longino contributes 11.6 PPG, 2.2 RPG, 2.3 APG, and 1.1 SPG.

Why Colorado will beat Villanova

• Colorado has won 12 of its last 13 night games against non-conference opponents.
• Villanova has lost three of its last four night games against the Big 12 Conference.

Why Villanova will beat Colorado

• Colorado has lost each of its last six night games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• Villanova has won each of its last five night games against non-conference opponents.
• Villanova has won the first half in each of its last six games against non-conference opponents.

Total Points Facts

• Nine of Villanova’s last 10 night games against non-AP-ranked opponents at a neutral venue have produced a total of 136 or fewer points.
• Each of Colorado’s last five games against non-AP-ranked opponents have produced a total of 136 or fewer points.

Matchup/League Facts

• Villanova ranks 2nd among Division 1 teams for free throw percentage this season (81.1%).
• Villanova ranks 358th among Division 1 teams for pace this season (63.1).

Villanova vs Colorado Prediction

It’s going to be the first-ever meeting between these teams. I would normally back Villanova to win and cover here, but Colorado positively surprised me late in the season, and the Buffaloes even put up a fight against Houston in the conference tournament. I liked their reaction following pale displays for most of the season, so I am going to back Over in this clash rather than backing the winner. Villanova has hit the Team Total Under in 12 of its last 18 games, while the Wildcats have hit the Game Total Over in 19 of their previous 33 games. Additionally, Colorado has hit the Team Total Over in its last 5 games.

Read the rest of "Villanova vs Colorado Prediction 4/1/25 College Basketball Picks Today" at Sports Chat Place

Villanova Wildcats Betting Preview

The Villanova Wildcats recently played Butler, Georgetown, and Seton Hall. Villanova has won seven of its last 10 games and needs more wins to have a chance at the big dance.

The Villanova Wildcats are averaging 74.2 points on 46.6 percent shooting and allowing 67.7 points on 42.7 percent shooting. Eric Dixon is averaging 23.6 points and 5.4 rebounds, while Wooga Poplar is averaging 14.2 points and 6.9 rebounds. Jordan Longino is the third double-digit scorer and Jhamir Brickus is dishing 5 assists. The Villanova Wildcats are shooting 39.8 percent from beyond the arc and 81.1 percent from the free throw line. The Villanova Wildcats are allowing 34.6 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 30.7 rebounds per game.

UConn Huskies Betting Preview

The UConn Huskies recently bat Providence, Marquette, and Seton Hall. UConn has won four straight games and could improve its NCAA Tournament seed with a deep run in this tournament. 

The UConn Huskies are averaging 78 points on 47.9 percent shooting and allowing 68.3 points on 42.3 percent shooting. Solo Ball is averaging 14.8 points and 3.6 rebounds, while Liam McNeeley is averaging 14.7 points and 2.5 assists. Alex Karaban is the third double-digit scorer and Tarris Reed Jr. is grabbing 7.3 rebounds. The UConn Huskies are shooting 35.3 percent from beyond the arc and 79.1 percent from the free throw line. The UConn Huskies are allowing 35.1 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 33 rebounds per game.

UConn vs Villanova Injury Report

UConn doesn’t have a player listed on its injury report. Villanova will continue to be without Nnanna Njoku due to a knee injury.

UConn vs Villanova Prediction

Villanova has the experience and the scorers to make this game interesting, and it did beat UCONN back in January. It wouldn’t be shocking to see this game come down to the wire. However, March is where UConn shines, and the Huskies have built momentum with four straight wins and a 3-1 ATS record during that span. Madison Square Garden is also UConn’s second home, and you can bet this will feel like a home game. This has been a year of shaky moments for UConn, but this is always a dangerous program this time of year. With the rest advantage and a home feel, I’ll lay the points with the Huskies.

Read the rest of "UConn vs Villanova Prediction 3/13/25 College Basketball Picks Today" at Sports Chat Place

Seton Hall Pirates Betting Preview

The Seton Hall Pirates (7-24, 13-18 ATS) have been in a catastrophic form this season, especially since the conference play started. The Pirates went through a five-game, a nine-game, and are currently on a six-game losing streak. Following a surprising win over defending champions UConn, Seton Hall lost to Marquette, Xavier, Villanova, St. John’s, Creighton, and UConn. The Pirates eded the regular season at the bottom of the Big East Standings.

Seton Hall averages 61.8 PPG (430th) and allows 70.3 PPG (128th). The Pirates are 401st in rebounds (31.3) and 403rd in assists (11.1). Isaiah Coleman leads the team with 15.3 PPG, a team-high 5.3 RPG, and 1.5 SPG. Chaunce Jenkins follows him with 11.4 PPG and 3.9 RPG, while Dylan Addae-Wusu chips in 10.0 PPG, 3.4 RPG, a team-high 3.1 APG, and a team-high 2.0 SPG.

Villanova Wildcats Betting Preview

The Villanova Wildcats (18-13, 16-15 ATS) have been playing way better than Seton Hall in recent weeks. The Wildcats had a pair of three-game winning streaks over the past month. They were close to recording fourth consecutive win, but fell short by two points to Georgetown. Before that, Villanova beat Marquette, Seton Hall, and Butler. The Wildcats enter the conference tourney as the No. 6 seed.

Villanova is averaging 74.1 PPG (180th) and is allowing 67.7 PPG (58th). The Wildcats are getting 34.1 RPG (281st) and dish out 12.9 APG (279th). Eric Dixon is the team’s top performer with 23.6 PPG, 5.4 RPG, and 2.1 APG. Wooga Poplar has 14.2 PPG, a team-high 6.9 RPG, and a team-high 1.4 SPG, while Jordan Longino contributes 11.8 PPG, 2.3 RPG, 2.3 APG, and 1.1 SPG.

Why Villanova will beat Seton Hall

• Seton Hall has lost each of its last eight night games.
• Villanova has won each of its last eight night games against non-AP-ranked opponents at a neutral venue.
• Villanova has won the first half in each of its last four night games against non-AP-ranked opponents at a neutral venue.

Total Points Facts

• Sixteen of Seton Hall’s last 18 games have produced a total of 130+ points.
• Each of Villanova’s last four games at a neutral venue have produced a total of 130+ points.

Matchup/League Facts

• Villanova ranks 2nd among Division 1 teams for free throw percentage this season (81.1%).
• Villanova ranks 358th among Division 1 teams for pace this season (63.1).
• Seton Hall ranks 361st among Division 1 teams for effective field goal percentage this season (44.6%).
• Seton Hall ranks 359th among Division 1 teams for field goals made per game this season (22.1).

Villanova vs Seton Hall Prediction

Villanova has been dominant in recent H2H duels as it won nine of the previous ten. The Wildcats won both duels this season; 79-67 at home and 59-54 at Seton Hall. With the way Seton Hall is playing of late and the fact it will probably be without the second-best scorer Jenkins, I can only back Villanova to get a win and cover. The Wildcats are a better team in every segment and this one should be comfortable for them. Seton Hall has only covered the Spread in 17 of its last 38 games.

Read the rest of "Villanova vs Seton Hall Prediction 3/12/25 College Basketball Picks Today" at Sports Chat Place

Villanova Wildcats Betting Preview

The Villanova Wildcats beat Marquette, Seton Hall, and Butler. Villanova has won six of its last eight games and has a chance at the fifth seed in the Big East.

The Villanova Wildcats are averaging 74.2 points on 46.6 percent shooting and allowing 67.5 points on 42.7 percent shooting. Eric Dixon is averaging 23.6 points and 5.5 rebounds, while Wooga Poplar is averaging 14.4 points and 6.8 rebounds. Jordan Longino is the third double-digit scorer and Jhamir Brickus is dishing 5 assists. The Villanova Wildcats are shooting 40.3 percent from beyond the arc and 81.5 percent from the free throw line. The Villanova Wildcats are allowing 34.2 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 30.7 rebounds per game.

Georgetown Hoyas Betting Preview

The Georgetown Hoyas lost to Marquette and UCONN, and they play DePaul next. It’s senior night for a Georgetown roster that has one senior in Micah Peavy.

The Georgetown Hoyas are averaging 71.6 points on 44.7 percent shooting and allowing 68.1 points on 41.9 percent shooting. Micah Peavy is averaging 16.4 points and 5.6 rebounds, while Thomas Sorber is averaging 14.5 points and 8.5 rebounds. Jayden Epps is the third double-digit scorer and Malik Mack is grabbing 3.9 rebounds. The Georgetown Hoyas are shooting 31.3 percent from beyond the arc and 70.4 percent from the free throw line. The Georgetown Hoyas are allowing 33.5 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 32.4 rebounds per game.

Georgetown vs Villanova Injury Report

Georgetown will be without Julius Halaifonua and Thomas Sorber. Villanova will be without Nnanna Njoku due to a knee injury.

Georgetown vs Villanova Prediction

Georgetown beat Villanova back in January on the road as a 7.5-point underdog and is now at home, where the Hoyas have seen 13 of their 16 wins come this season. It’s senior night for Micah Peavy, so the crowd will be into it and the players will want to send him off a winner. However, Georgetown has been a mess as of late and isn’t a team I’m excited to get behind. Villanova has won six of its last eight games and has locked down defensively. Villanova has allowed less than 70 points in six of its last nine games. It’s hard to go against Villanova in this spot. I’ll lay the bucket with the road team.

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Matchup History

The Villanova Wildcats won the first meeting between these two teams this season by a final score of 73-65 at Butler back on January 1^st, 2025. The win made it back-to-back wins and wins in 5 of the last 7 meetings for Villanova.

Butler Recap

The Butler Bulldogs come into this game looking to bounce back from a 76-70 loss at the hands of St. John’s last time out to sit at 13-15 on the year. After this game, Butler will head home for a matchup with Xavier.

Bulldogs Looking For Some Consistency After Alternating Wins & Losses In 4 Straight

Jahmyl Telfort leads Butler in scoring and assists with 16 PPG and 3.5 APG along with 4.8 RPG. Pierre Brooks II has 15.6 PPG with 4.9 RPG, and Patrick McCaffery has 11.1 PPG with 4.7 RPG to cap off the trio of double-digit scorers for Butler up to this point in the year. Andre Screen has chipped in 8.2 PPG with a team-high 6 RPG to lead the Bulldogs in rebounding while Finley Bizjack has 9.1 PPG with 3 RPG and 2.2 APG and Kolby King has 5.6 PPG with 4.4 RPG as well. As a team, Butler is averaging 74.4 PPG on 46.1% shooting from the field, 36.8% from behind the arc and 74% from the foul line so far this season.

Why the Butler Bulldogs will win

• Butler has won four of its last five games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Villanova Recap

The Villanova Wildcats come into this game looking to add on to their 59-54 win over Seton Hall last time out to sit at 17-12 on the year. After this game, Villanova will close out the regular season with a road game at Georgetown.

Wildcats Win Back-To-Back Games

Eric Dixon leads Villanova in scoring with 22.9 PPG along with 5.3 RPG while Wooga Poplar has 14.6 PPG with 6.6 RPG to share the team lead in rebounding. And Jordan Longino has added 11.8 PPG with 2.4 RPG and 2.3 APG to cap off the trio of double-digit scorers for Villanova up to this point in the year. Jhamir Brickus also has 9.8 PPG with a team-high 5.1 APG to lead the Wildcats in the assist department while Tyler Perkins has 6.4 PPG with 3.9 RPG and Enoch Boakye has 4 PPG with 6.1 RPG of his own this season. As a team, Villanova is averaging 74.5 PPG on 46.6% shooting from the field, 40.3% from three and 81.4% from the foul line this season.

Why the Villanova Wildcats will win

• Villanova has won nine of its last 10 games at Finneran Pavilion.
• Butler has lost each of its last four games at Finneran Pavilion.

Total Points Facts

• Each of Butler’s last four day games against the Big East Conference have produced a total of 155+ points.
• Each of Villanova’s last four day games at Finneran Pavilion have produced a total of 150+ points.

Butler vs. Villanova Prediction

I’m on Butler here. It took a monumental run late in the second half of that game for Villanova to pull out the win in the first meeting between these two teams, and I don’t see Butler replicating that meltdown here. The Bulldogs were the better team for 80-90% of that game before falling apart, and at worst in the rematch I think they keep it close if they don’t give themselves a chance to win outright. Give me Butler and the points.

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What a Win for Villanova

Villanova has been incessant all season, and it was no different in the last victory. Villanova faced off against Marquette, and they scored 81 points on the way to the 15-point victory. Villanova shot 45.3 percent from the field and 57.7 percent from behind the three-point line. No one has been able to slow down Eric Dixon all season, and he put up 23 points, five rebounds, and two assists. Jhamir Brickus also had a strong game, putting up 21 points, three rebounds, and two assists. 

Villanova has a 16-12 record overall, but away from home, they have struggled, sitting at 2-7. Villanova is averaging 74.5 points, and their offense has been slightly inconsistent at times. Usually, when they have found success, they have leaned on the defense, which is giving up 67.9 points per game. Eric Dixon is having a huge season, and he’s averaging 22.9 points while shooting 45.6 percent from the field and 42.3 percent from behind the three-point line. After this game, Villanova will head back home for a matchup with Butler. 

What an Awful Year for Seton Hall

It has been nothing but an awful year for Seton Hall and they just keep losing games. Two games ago against Marquette, they scored only 56 points, and in the last game against Xavier, they lost 73-66. Seton Hall shot 41.8 percent from the field while they allowed Xavier to shoot 48.8 percent from the field and they are going to need the defense to step up here. As bad as they have been, they have had a couple of key wins, including three games ago against the UConn Huskies. 

Seton Hall only has seven wins this season, but five of those have come at home. Seton Hall’s biggest issue has been their inconsistency with the offense. They are averaging only 62.6 points while their defense is giving up 70 points. The defense hasn’t been awful, but the lack of scoring has made them look really bad. Isaiah Coleman has been the only real bright spot with the offense, averaging 15.5 points while shooting 38.8 percent and 34 percent from behind the three-point line. 

Why Seton Hall Will Beat Nova

• Villanova has lost five of its last six road games against the Big East Conference.
• The home team has won five of the last six games between Villanova and Seton Hall.

Matchup/League Facts

• Seton Hall ranks 360th among Division 1 teams for points per game this season (62.6).
• Seton Hall ranks 360th among Division 1 teams for field goal percentage this season (40.0%).
• Villanova ranks 2nd among Division 1 teams for free throw percentage this season (81.4%).
• Villanova ranks 359th among Division 1 teams for pace this season (63.2).

Seton Hall vs Villanova Prediction

Betting on Seton Hall can be scary, but it’s the only play here. When Villanova goes on the road, it’s like a switch happens, not in a good way. At times, Villanova will have a game where everyone outside of Eric Dixon struggles with the offense and that’s exactly what is going to happen here. Villanova has the better record, but it’s not like they are an elite team. Seton Hall is only going to need 67 or 68 points to cover the spread, and they will get to that number. It might be a sweat, but Seton Hall will make enough shots to complete it. Back Seton Hall against the spread.

Read the rest of "Seton Hall vs Villanova Prediction 2/26/25 College Basketball Picks Today" at Sports Chat Place

Villanova Wildcats Betting Preview

The Villanova Wildcats are 15-12 (8-8) this year after they lost to UConn by a score of 66-59 in their last game. Villanova led 34-26 at halftime, but they were outscored 40-25 in the second half in the loss. The Wildcats shot 35.2% from the field, 36.4% on three-pointers, and 81.3% on free throws in the game. Wooga Poplar led Villanova with 19 points and six rebounds, while Eric Dixon added 17 points and five rebounds in the game.

Prior to that loss, the Wildcats lost to Providence by a score of 75-62 but did beat St. John’s by a score of 73-71 before that. Villanova has won three of their last five games and they are currently sixth in the Big East standings with an 8-8 record. Villanova has scored 74.3 points per game and they have allowed 67.9 points per game, while also averaging 34.0 rebounds and 12.9 assists per game this season. Eric Dixon is averaging 22.9 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game, while Wooga Poplar is averaging 15.0 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game this year. Villanova is shooting 46.7% from the field, 80.9% on free throws, and 39.6% on three-pointers this season. 

Marquette Golden Eagles Betting Preview

The Marquette Golden Eagles are 20-6 (11-4) this season after they defeated Seton Hall by a score of 80-56 in their last game. Marquette led 40-23 at halftime and added 40 more points in the second half in the blowout win. The Golden Eagles shot 53.6% from the field, 40.7% on three-pointers, and 69.2% on free throws in the game. Kam Jones led Marquette with 14 points and five assists, while Chase Ross added 11 points and five assists in the win. 

Prior to that game, the Golden Eagles defeated DePaul by a score of 68-58 but did lose to Creighton by a score of 77-67 before that. Marquette has lost three of their last five games and they are currently tied for second in the Big East standings with an 11-4 record. Marquette has scored 77.3 points per game and they have allowed 67.1 points per game, while also averaging 34.1 rebounds and 13.8 assists per game this season. Kam Jones is averaging 19.0 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game, while David Joplin is averaging 13.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game this year. Marquette is shooting 44.3% from the field, 72.8% on free throws, and 32.4% on three-pointers this season. 

Why Marquette will beat Villanova

• Marquette has won each of its last 10 night games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• Villanova has lost four of its last five games against AP-ranked opponents at Wells Fargo Center.
• Villanova has lost the first half in four of its last five night games at Wells Fargo Center.

Total Points Facts

• Five of Villanova’s last six night games at Wells Fargo Center have produced a total of 131 or fewer points.
• Each of Marquette’s last three night games against Conference opponents has produced a total of 136 or fewer points.

Villanova vs Marquette Prediction 

Villanova comes into this game trying to snap a two-game losing streak, but they will be at home for this matchup. The Wildcats are shooting 46.7% from the field this year, but they have scored 62 points or fewer in three of their last five games. Marquette is looking for their third straight win, but they are 0-2 in their last two road games. The Golden Eagles are shooting 44.3% from the field this year and they have allowed 58 and 56 points in their last two games. Marquette did beat Villanova by a score of 87-74 in their first meeting and I expect more of the same here, as Villanova continues to play inconsistently. 

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Villanova Looks to Bounce Back

Villanova is looking to bounce back here after they really struggled in the last game. Villanova scored only 62 points against Providence while the defense gave up 75 points and that was enough for the 13 points. At halftime, they were down 36-24 and in the second half, it didn’t get any better as they ended up losing. Villanova shot 43.4 percent from the field and 26.3 percent from behind the three-point line. 

Villanova comes into this game with a 15-10 record, and they have gone 13-12 against the spread. Away from home this season they have gone 2-5 against the spread. Villanova is averaging 74.8 points while their defense is giving up 68 points per game. The offense is ranked 162nd in the league while the defense is ranked 68th. Eric Dixon has been the top player for Villanova this season, averaging 23.2 points while shooting 46.4 percent from the field and 42.1 percent from behind the three-point line. 

UConn Continues to Shock

UConn continues to shock at times, and it always comes at the worst time. UConn faced off against Seton Hall in the last game and they blew it late during regulation and they blew it again in overtime, which led to the 69-68 defeat. UConn shot only 37.3 percent from the field and 30.8 percent from behind the three-point line. Alex Karaban put up 20 points, six rebounds, and two assists. Two games ago against Creighton, they played better and they were able to secure the 70-66 victory. 

UConn currently sits with a 17-7 record overall and they have gone 11-13 against the spread. At home this season they have gone 10-2 straight up. The one thing they can’t do is overlook this game, or they will be in trouble. UConn is averaging 78.3 points while their defense is giving up 68.5 points per game. The offense is ranked 80th in the league while the defense is ranked 73rd in the league. Solo Ball is averaging 14.8 points while shooting 42.4 percent from the field and 37.5 percent from behind the three-point line. 

Why UConn Will Beat Villanova

• Connecticut has won each of its last 16 night games at XL Center.
• Villanova has lost four of its last five road games against the Big East Conference.

UConn vs Villanova Prediction

This is a big-time bounce-back spot for UConn. It’s not so much that I trust the Huskies; I just really don’t trust Villanova, and the Wildcats are going to have some major issues here. Villanova is averaging 74.8 points on the season, but the Wildcats are going to have some major issues getting that type of offense going here. UConn is averaging 78.3 points, and they are going to end up cruising here. This game is going to be a blowout victory for UConn. Back UConn against the spread. 

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Villanova Recap

The Villanova Wildcats come into this game looking to add on to their 73-71 win over St. John’s last time out to improve to 15-10 on the year. After this game, Villanova will head on the road for a game against UConn.

Wildcats Win Three In A Row

Eric Dixon leads Villanova in scoring with 23.5 PPG along with 5.1 RPG while Wooga Poplar has 14.7 PPG with 6.4 RPG to share the team lead in rebounding and Jordan Longino has added 11.6 PPG with 2.5 RPG and 2.3 APG to cap off the trio of double-digit scorers for Villanova up to this point in the year. Jhamir Brickus also has 9.7 PPG with a team-high 5.5 APG to lead the Wildcats in the assist department while Tyler Perkins has 6.9 PPG with 3.8 RPG and Enoch Boakye has 4 PPG with 6.4 RPG of his own to share the team lead on the glass with the aforementioned Poplar. As a team, Villanova is averaging 75.4 PPG on 47.2% shooting from the field, 40.2% from three and 80.8% from the foul line this season.

Why the Villanova Wildcats will win

• Villanova has won each of its last six night games against Providence.
• Providence has lost each of its last four games.

Providence Recap

The Providence Friars come into this game looking to bounce back from a 91-82 loss at the hands of Xavier last time out to fall to 11-14 on the year. After this game, Providence will head on the road for a game against the Georgetown Hoyas.

Friars Drop 4^th Straight Game

Jayden Pierre’s logged 12.8 PPG with 2.7 RPG and 3 APG. Bensley Joseph has 11.7 PPG with 4 RPG and a team-high 3 APG to lead the Friars in assists to cap off the group of double-digit scorers for Providence so far this season. Wesley Cardet Jr. has 9.3 PPG with 3.5 RPG while Corey Floyd Jr. has 9.1 PPG with 4.7 RPG while Oswin Erhunmwunse has 5.6 RPG as well on the year. As a team, Providence is averaging 71.5 PPG on 43.8% shooting from the field, 35.3% from three and 70.2% from the foul line this season.

Why the Providence Friars will win

• Providence has won 17 of its last 18 Saturday night games at Amica Mutual Pavilion.
• Villanova has lost three of its last four road games.

Providence vs Villanova Prediction

I’m on Villanova here. Let’s face it. The last two years have been pain for the Villanova program, and this season feels like the closest that the Wildcats have come to the NCAA tournament by a fair margin and I think that Villanova knows they can ill afford to slip up here if this team is serious about breaking that drought and getting back to the Big Dance. Providence is in a tailspin right now because the defense that the Friars have been able to lean on for so long now looks frail and inconsistent, and I think that Villanova takes advantage, even in a sandwich spot off of the win against St. John’s before games against UConn and Marquette. Give me the Wildcats here.

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St. John’s Red Storm Betting Preview

The St. John’s Red Storm beat Marquette and UConn, and they play Creighton, DePaul, and UCONN next. The St. John’s Red Storm are averaging 78.5 points on 45 percent shooting and allowing 65 points on 39.4 percent shooting. RJ Luis Jr. is averaging 17.6 points and 6.8 rebounds, while Zuby Ejiofor is averaging 14.2 points and 1 assist. Kadary Richmond is the third double-digit scorer and Deivon Smith is dishing 4.1 assists. The St. John’s Red Storm are shooting 29.1 percent from beyond the arc and 68.9 percent from the free throw line. The St. John’s Red Storm are allowing 33.3 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 36.4 rebounds per game.

Villanova Wildcats Betting Preview

The Villanova Wildcats beat DePaul and Xavier, and they play Providence, UConn, and Marquette next. The Villanova Wildcats are averaging 75.5 points on 47 percent shooting and allowing 67.6 points on 42.6 percent shooting. Eric Dixon is averaging 23.8 points and 5.2 rebounds, while Wooga Poplar is averaging 14.4 points and 6.4 rebounds. Jordan Longino is the third double-digit scorer and Jhamir Brickus is dishing 5.5 assists. The Villanova Wildcats are shooting 9.9 percent from beyond the arc and 80.9 percent from the free throw line. The Villanova Wildcats are allowing 34.4 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 31.4 rebounds per game.

Villanova vs St. John’s Injury Report

Villanova will be without Nnanna Njoku due to a knee injury. St. John’s will be without Brady Dunlap, while Deivon Smith is questionable with a neck injury.

Villanova vs St. John’s Prediction

The Villanova Wildcats are a tough out at home where they’re 11-3 SU on the season, and they have the offense to pull an upset. The problem is St. John’s has been far and away more consistent with 10 straight wins, and they’re 5-1 SU on the road. St. John’s is rolling at both ends of the floor and beat Villanova by 12 points last month. St. John’s has allowed less than 70 points in nine of its last 11 games. St. John’s has covered seven of its last nine games. The line is reasonable. Give me St. John’s to get its sixth road win of the season.

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Xavier Musketeers Betting Preview

Xavier has been quite the choppy team in the record column so far this year, but overall they’re winning at a higher clip than they’re losing. The Musketeers kicked off the season with a 6-0 run, taking out Texas Southern, IUPUI, Jackson State, Wake Forest, Siena, and South Carolina. A 2-2 stretch came next with losses to Michigan and TCU among wins over South Carolina State and Morgan State. Xavier beat only Seton Hall in their next six, losing otherwise versus Cincinnati, UConn, Marquette, Georgetown, and St. John’s in that time. Since then it’s been a 5-2 run for the Musketeers. The losses have come to St. John’s and Creighton; otherwise, it’s been wins over DePaul, Villanova, Marquette, UConn, and Georgetown in that time. The result in the record column so far has been a 14-9 overall run through the first 23 games of the year.

In the Georgetown matchup back on Tuesday, the Musketeers went into the second half with a 30-26 edge. Xavier hit a 44-43 run the rest of the way and powered out the win 74-69 in the end. Leading the team in scoring was Dailyn Swain with 18 points, four assists, and six rebounds. Marcus Foster managed a double-double of 17 points with 13 rebounds and two assists, while Zach Freemantle added 17 points with three rebounds and a pair of steals.

Villanova Wildcats Betting Preview

Over on the Villanova side, their year has been pretty choppy. The good news is that the Wildcats have managed to keep their heads above the .500 mark so far. Villanova lost to Columbia, St. Joseph’s, Virginia, and Maryland in their first seven games, beating Lafayette, NJIT, and Penn otherwise. The Wildcats took out Rider, Cincinnati, Temple, and Fairleigh Dickinson before a loss to Creighton, then fell to Butler, DePaul, and UConn. It’s been a 2-5 stretch in the last seven outings with wins over only Providence and DePaul. Otherwise, the Wildcats have lost to St. John’s, Xavier, Georgetown, Marquette, and Creighton in that time, giving Villanova a 13-10 overall run through their first 23 games this season so far.

Matched up against DePaul in the Wednesday game, the Wildcats hit a three-point advantage in the first half. Villanova kept it up from there on a 30-23 stretch and took the double-digit road win in the end 59-49. Jordan Longino put up 17 points with three rebounds and two assists. Eric Dixon added 14 points with three rebounds, one assist, and one steal, while Wooga Poplar managed 12 points and six boards with a pair of steals. Enoch Boakye pulled down 10 rebounds with two points in 31 minutes of work during the win as well.

Why the Villanova Wildcats will win

• Villanova has won 32 of its last 37 games at Wells Fargo Center against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• Xavier has lost four of its last five games following a home win.
• Villanova has won the first half in five of its last six day games against Xavier.

Why the Xavier Musketeers will win

• Xavier has won each of its last 13 day games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• Villanova has lost six of its last eight day games.
• Xavier has won the first half in each of its last 10 day games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Villanova vs Xavier Prediction

I’ll lean toward Xavier. This should be a pretty fun matchup though, and you could probably call it either way. The Musketeers were able to fend off a comparable Georgetown team in their last outing, shooting 51 percent from the field with a 31-24 rebounding edge. It was a sloppy game overall though, with Xavier accounting for 16 of the game’s 29 total turnovers, which translated to 14 Hoyas points. The Musketeers are going to have to watch the mistakes on Sunday in this upcoming road game.

Xavier was able to win at home 69-63 the last time these teams met up back on January 14. The Musketeers’ shooting wasn’t that great (40.8 percent) and they were outmuscled on the boards 34-28 but did get 18 points off 14 turnovers. Xavier won’t be able to count on those turnovers this time, so I’d like to see a significantly higher shooting percentage.

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Villanova Wildcats Betting Preview

The Wildcats had a spotty run in November but they were looking good by early January. Since then, however, Villanova has faltered. During a 3-4 opening run the Wildcats took losses to Columbia, Saint Joseph’s, Virginia, and Maryland. Wins over Rider, Cincinnati, Temple, Fairleigh Dickinson, and Seton Hall followed, then a loss to Creighton. After three more wins over Butler, DePaul, and UConn, the Wildcats began a 1-5 skid. The lone win in that time was over Providence. Otherwise, it’s been losses to St. John’s, Xavier, Georgetown, Marquette, and Creighton along the way to a spotty 12-10 overall record through the first 22 games this year.

In the Creighton game over the weekend, the Wildcats were looking at a 29-29 tie on the scoreboard following the first half. Villanova was outscored 33-31 the rest of the way during a tough home loss 62-60 in the end. Leading team scorer Wooga Poplar had 24 points with four rebounds and five steals. Eric Dixon added 17 points with five rebounds and two assists, while Jordan Longino chipped in eight points with two rebounds in 39 minutes of action in the loss.

DePaul Blue Demons Betting Preview

Over on the DePaul side, they started out on a great run over their first seven games. Since then, however, the wins have been few and far between. The Demons beat Prairie View, Mercer, Duquesne, Eastern Illinois, Northern Illinois, and Valparaiso in those opening matchups, then hit a 2-4 slide versus Texas Tech, Providence, St. John’s, and Northwestern with wins over Wichita State, and Loyola MD. After losses to UConn, Villanova, Seton Hall, Xavier, and Marquette, the Demons got another win over Georgetown. Since then it’s been a 1-3 run with losses to Creighton, Butler, and UConn ahead of a win over Seton Hall. The result so far has been an 11-12 overall record through 23 games for the Blue Demons.

Matched up against Seton Hall in their Sunday game, the Demons came out of the first half holding a 38-29 advantage. DePaul kept it rolling from there on a 36-28 stretch and took the victory 74-57 in the end. NJ Benson doubled up on 17 points with 11 rebounds and three assists alongside a pair of blocks, while CJ Gunn chipped in 16 points with seven rebounds. Isaiah Rivera came off the bench for 14 points and two rebounds, and Jacob Meyer added 11 points with one assist and one steal in 19 minutes off the bench himself.

Why the DePaul Blue Demons will win

• DePaul has won each of its last six night games at Wintrust Arena following a home win.
• Villanova has lost five of its last six games.
• DePaul has won the first half in seven of its last eight night games at Wintrust Arena.

Why the Villanova Wildcats will win

• DePaul has lost each of its last 14 night games against the Big East Conference at Wintrust Arena.
• Villanova has won each of its last five games against DePaul.
• Villanova has won the first half in each of its last eight night games against DePaul.

DePaul vs Villanova Prediction

I’ll stick with Villanova I suppose. Both teams have been struggling lately, however, so I’m probably staying away from this one. That said, the Wildcats didn’t play great versus Creighton in their last outing, shooting 39.7 percent from the field and just 17.6 percent (3-of-17) from 3-point range alongside a 40-28 rebounding deficit. The lone saving grace was the 25 points off 18 Bluejays turnovers, but it wasn’t enough to get the victory. During this 1-5 skid, the Wildcats have been below 69 points in four of the five losses, so it’d be nice to see them eclipse the 70-point mark here.

Villanova did just that the last time these teams saw each other back on January 4. The Wildcats posted a 100-56 blowout win at home there, shooting a stellar 59.7 percent from the field and 59.3 percent (16-of-27) from outside. The only spotty shooting work came at the line (10-of-18 for 55.6 percent), but otherwise, it was a pretty perfect performance all things considered. The Wildcats likely won’t dominate like that in the road rematch but I think they’ve still got the advantage in most facets.

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Creighton Bluejays Betting Preview

The Creighton Bluejays beat Seton Hall and Xavier, and they play Providence, Marquette, and UCONN next. The Creighton Bluejays are averaging 76 points on 47.9 percent shooting and allowing 68.7 points on 40.5 percent shooting. Ryan Kalkbrenner is averaging 18.3 points and 8.4 rebounds, while Steven Ashworth is averaging 16.5 points and 4 rebounds. Pop Isaacs is the third double-digit scorer and Jamiya Neal is grabbing 5.7 rebounds. The Creighton Bluejays are shooting 35.4 percent from beyond the arc and 75.6 percent from the free throw line. The Creighton Bluejays are allowing 30.7 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 34.5 rebounds per game.

Villanova Wildcats Betting Preview

The Villanova Wildcats lost to Georgetown and Marquette, and they play DePaul, Xavier, and St. John’s next. The Villanova Wildcats are averaging 76.8 points on 47.3 percent shooting and allowing 68.7 points on 42.8 percent shooting. Eric Dixon is averaging 24.6 points and 5.3 rebounds, while Wooga Poplar is averaging 13.6 points and 6.5 rebounds. Jordan Longino is the third double-digit scorer and Jhamir Brickus is dishing 5.6 assists. The Villanova Wildcats are shooting 40 percent from beyond the arc and 79.5 percent from the free throw line. The Villanova Wildcats are allowing 35.7 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 32 rebounds per game.

Villanova vs Creighton Injury Report

Villanova will continue to be without Nnanna Njoku due to a knee injury. Creighton will continue to be without Pop Isaacs and Larry Johnson.

Villanova vs Creighton Prediction

Right when it looked like Villanova was turning the corner, the defense takes a step back and the Wildcats have lost four of their last five games. The Creighton Bluejays are on a heater with six straight wins and seven straight covers. It looks like Creighton has finally adjusted to not having Pop Isaacs, and the Bluejays are now top-50 in offensive field goal percentage and defensive field goal percentage. If Villanova doesn’t fix its defensive issues, this game has a chance to be a blowout. Creighton can score the ball at an above average clip. Creighton also beat up on Villanova last month at home. We’re getting a bucket with the team in better form. Give me Creighton on the road.

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Villanova Fell Just Short

Villanova in the last game faced off against Georgetown and they scored 63 points, but the defense gave up 64 points and that led to the defeat. Villanova was up 34-27 at halftime and they looked like they were going to cruise to the victory. Villanova shot 40 percent from the field and 40 percent from behind the three-point line. Georgetown hit 12 of their 13 free throws while Villanova hit 9 of the 12 free throws and that led to the defeat. Two games ago against Providence, they were able to secure a 75-73 victory. 

Villanova comes into this game with a 12-8 record overall and they have gone 10-10 against the spread. The over has hit in 13 of the 20 games so far this season. Villanova is averaging 76.9 points while their defense is giving up 67.8 points per game. The offense is ranked 123rd in the league while the defense is ranked 176th in the league. Forward Eric Dixon is averaging 24.9 points while shooting 48.8 percent from the field and 48.7 percent from behind the three-point line. 

Marquette Looks for Second Straight Win

Marquette in the last game faced off against Seton Hall and they sure looked good. Marquette scored 76 points while the defense gave up 59 points and that was the difference. Marquette shot 41.4 percent from the field and 37 percent from behind the three-point line. They hit 18 of their 25 free throws also. Kam Jones had a strong game for Marquette putting up 19 points, four rebounds, and three assists. 

Marquette on the season comes into this game with a 16-3 record overall and they have gone 9-10 against the spread. Marquette is averaging 78.8 points while their defense is giving up 65.5 points per game. The offense is ranked 84th in the league while the defense is ranked 65th. Kam Jones put up 19.1 points while shooting 49.7 percent from the field. There were four different players that put up at least 10.5 points. 

Why Marquette Will Beat Villanova

• Marquette has won 17 of its last 18 games at Fiserv Forum when playing with a rest disadvantage.
• Villanova has lost six of its last seven night games against Top 10 AP-ranked opponents.
• Villanova has lost the first half in six of its last eight games against Top 10 AP-ranked opponents.

Marquette vs Villanova Prediction

Away from home this season, Villanova has really struggled and it’s going to be much of the same here. Marquette also hasn’t been exactly elite with covering spreads, but they are still the much better team here. Marquette on the season is averaging 78.8 points per game and they are going to have no issue running up the score here. Villanova will have no answer, and Marquette will get the job done here. Back Marquete against the spread. 

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Georgetown Hoyas Betting Preview

The Georgetown Hoyas lost to DePaul and St. John’s, and they play Providence, St. John’s, and Butler next. The Georgetown Hoyas are averaging 72.8 points on 46.3 percent shooting and allowing 64.4 points on 38.7 percent shooting. Thomas Sorber is averaging 14.2 points and 8.6 rebounds, while Malik Mack is averaging 13.9 points and 4.1 rebounds. Micah Peavy is the third double-digit scorer and Jayden Epps is grabbing 2.1 rebounds. The Georgetown Hoyas are shooting 31.8 percent from beyond the arc and 72 percent from the free throw line. The Georgetown Hoyas are allowing 33.3 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 34.3 rebounds per game.

Villanova Wildcats Betting Preview

The Villanova Wildcats lost to Xavier, beat Providence, and they play Marquette, Creighton, and DePaul next. The Villanova Wildcats are averaging 77.6 points on 47.9 percent shooting and allowing 68 points on 42.9 percent shooting. Eric Dixon is averaging 24.7 points and 5.1 rebounds, while Wooga Poplar is averaging 14.5 points and 6.8 rebounds. Jhamir Brickus is the third double-digit scorer and Jordan Longino is dishing 2.1 assists. The Villanova Wildcats are shooting 40.3 percent from beyond the arc and 80.1 percent from the free throw line. The Villanova Wildcats are allowing 35.9 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 31.7 rebounds per game.

Villanova vs Georgetown Injury Report

The Villanova Wildcats will be without Nnanna Njoku due to a knee injury. The Georgetown Hoyas will be without Julius Halaifonua, while Jayden Epps and Thomas Sober are questionable.

Villanova vs Georgetown Prediction

The Georgetown Hoyas looked like a decent team a couple of weeks ago, but they’re riding a four-game losing streak and have scored under 70 points in all of those losses. Georgetown also just lost to DePaul at home as a six-point favorite. I doubt the Hoyas struggles are going to turnaround on the road, especially with Villanova being 10-1 SU at home. Villanova has owned Georgetown over the years with wins in nine of the last 10 games. The Villanova Wildcats are playing some of their best ball of the season right now, and they’ve covered four of their last six games as a favorite. Right when you’re ready to believe in Georgetown, it’s fallen off the wagon, and this isn’t a spot where it gets on track. I’ll lay the points with Villanova at home.

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Providence Friars Betting Preview

The Friars kicked off the 2024-25 season with a nice opening run, then hit a bad stretch in late November. Providence only has one instance of consecutive wins since then. Everything was looking good after a 5-0 start featuring wins over Central Connecticut, Stonehill, Hampton, Green Bay, and Delaware State. A 2-4 run ensued with wins over only BYU and DePaul amid losses to Oklahoma, Davidson, Indiana, and Rhode Island. Since then the Friars are 2-5 with wins over only Butler and Seton Hall. Otherwise, it’s been losses to St. Bonaventure, St. John’s, Marquette, UConn, and Creighton for a .500 overall record through the first 18 games so far.

Matched up against Creighton on Tuesday, the Friars entered the second half holding a 43-34 deficit on the scoreboard. Providence was outscored 41-30 the rest of the way, eventually falling 84-64 in the end. Leading the team in scoring were three starters. Ryan Mela had 10 points with seven rebounds and three assists. Wesley Cardet had 10 points with two rebounds, and Corey Floyd added 10 points with eight boards, two assists, and a steal. Oswin Erhunmwunse put up eight points with eight rebounds in 24 minutes of work, and Christ Essandoko came off the bench for seven points and three rebounds in seven minutes.

Villanova Wildcats Betting Preview

Over on the Villanova side, they opened the year on a shaky run themselves, then were able to even things out starting in late November. The first seven games for the Wildcats were a 3-4 stretch featuring wins over Lafayette, NJIT, and Pennsylvania. The losses otherwise were versus Columbia, Saint Joseph’s, Virginia, and Maryland. A nice 8-1 run came after that, featuring a lone loss to Creighton. Otherwise, it was wins over Rider, Cincinnati, Temple, Fairleigh Dickinson, Seton Hall, Butler, DePaul, and UConn. Since then it’s been a couple of consecutive losses to St. John’s and Xavier though, giving the Wildcats a 11-7 overall run through 18 so far.

In the Xavier game on Tuesday, the Wildcats were looking good after the first half and holding a lead 32-24. Villanova was blitzed in the second half however, falling behind on a 45-31 stretch for a 69-63 loss in the end. Tops in scoring was Eric Dixon, who notched 18 points, four boards and two assists in the losing effort. Jordan Longino shared that distinction with his 18 points, two steals, and two rebounds, while Wooga Poplar chipped in with 14 points, five boards, three assists, and two steals. Kris Parker provided all the bench points (two) in 11 minutes of work.

Why the Villanova Wildcats will win

• Villanova has won 14 of its last 15 night games at Wells Fargo Center against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• Providence has lost 10 of its last 11 Friday games.
• Villanova has won the first half in each of its last seven home games.

Why the Providence Friars will win

• Providence has won 12 of its last 16 night games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• Villanova has lost the first half in three of its last four night games at Wells Fargo Center.

Villanova vs Providence Prediction

I’m going to take Villanova here. The Wildcats posted some pretty solid overall stats in their loss to Xavier, notching 43.1 percent shooting with a 34-28 rebounding edge and 8-of-21 (38.1 percent) from outside. The killer was the 14 turnovers for 18 Musketeers points though, which essentially lost Villanova the game. The Wildcats have been below 69 points in consecutive games now after hitting 68 or more in 11 straight (an 8-3 run) prior to that.

As for Providence, they had a 40-35 rebounding edge in their 20-point loss to Creighton but also gave up 51.6 percent shooting from the field and 12 turnovers for 13 Bluejays points. The Friars didn’t shoot all that well (38.2 percent) themselves either. Providence had hit 84 or more points in three straight games (a 2-1 stretch) prior to that 64-point outing. If both teams play well in this one we should have a high total, but in the end, I like Villanova to power it out at home. Should be a fun one to watch, though.

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Villanova Wildcats Betting Preview

The Wildcats opened up the 2024-25 season on a shaky run, however, they’ve been a lot more steady since late November. Villanova hit a 3-4 stride in their first seven outings, beating Lafayette, NJIT, and Pennsylvania along with losses to Columbia, Saint Joseph’s, Virginia, and Maryland in that time. The Wildcats would then hit a nice five-game win streak. The victories in that stretch came courtesy of Rider, Cincinnati, Temple, Fairleigh Dickinson, and Seton Hall in succession. Following another loss to Creighton, Villanova took wins over Butler, DePaul, and UConn before another loss to St. John’s, giving the Wildcats an 11-6 overall record so far.

In the St. John’s matchup back on Saturday, Villanova was within five points at the break with a 36-31 deficit. The Wildcats didn’t end up getting any closer than that however, trailing 44-37 in the second half on the way to an 80-68 defeat. Tops in scoring during the losing effort was Wooga Poplar with 22 points, four rebounds, and one assist. Eric Dixon added 18 points with two rebounds and three assists, while Jhamir Brickus put up 13 points, six boards and three assists in 34 minutes. Both Josiah Moseley and Kris Parker provided two bench points each.

Xavier Musketeers Betting Preview

Over on the Xavier side, they came into the year with a nice win streak, but they’ve since taken an opposite trajectory in the record column. The Musketeers’ first six games were all wins over Texas Southern, IUPUI, Jackson State, Wake Forest, Siena, and South Carolina. A 2-2 run came next with losses to Michigan and TCU alongside wins over South Carolina State and Morgan State. Xavier has since gone just 2-5 in their last seven games. The only two wins in that time were over Seton Hall and DePaul. Otherwise, it’s been losses to Cincinnati, UConn, Marquette, Georgetown, and St. John’s during a difficult stretch that’s left the Musketeers with a 10-7 overall record through the first 17 games of the season thus far.

Matched up against DePaul over the weekend, Xavier got off to a nice start and held on for a much-needed victory. The Musketeers were up 38-23 by the break, then cruised on 39 second-half points for an eventual win 77-63. Leading the team in scoring with 20 points in 32 minutes off the bench was Zach Freemantle, who also provided 10 rebounds for a double-double. Ryan Conwell led the starters with 19 points, four assists, and two rebounds, while Jerome Hunter put up 10 points with six boards and two assists in 21 minutes of action.

Why the Xavier Musketeers will win

• Xavier has won nine of its last 10 games at Cintas Center against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• The home team has won the first half in each of Villanova’s last seven games.

Why the Villanova Wildcats will win

• Villanova has won nine of its last 10 night games against Xavier.
• Xavier has lost each of its last four night games against the Big East Conference.
• Villanova has won the first half in six of its last seven road games against Xavier.

Xavier vs Villanova Prediction

I’m sticking with Villanova, but this should be a pretty fun matchup. The Wildcats need a good bounce-back after falling to a talented St. John’s team in their last outing as well. Villanova put up a tepid 39.3 percent shooting in that one and got demolished on the boards with a 44-28 deficit (17-8 offensive). The good news for the Wildcats is that they’ve been scoring quite well for most of the year. Villanova has hit 68 or more points in 12 straight games—a 9-3 overall run.

As for Xavier, they put up a nice effort versus a middling DePaul team in their last outing. The Musketeers shot 48.1 percent from the field with a 36-28 rebounding edge but did get a little careless with ball control on 12 turnovers. Xavier has posted 70 or more points in five of the last six games themselves, so we should have a pretty hefty total here if both teams play to their capabilities.

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