No. 10 Virginia vs. No. 14 West Virginia
Two teams known for their defense, and a match-up that feels like it should be a rivalry, but isn’t. The Cavaliers are known for their pack line defense that, for some, slows the game down to a crawl at times–while Malcolm Brogdon makes play after play on the other end. For the Mountaineers, Bob Huggins prefers to turn the game into street top hyperbole, with the pace being as frantic as possible. Who can impose their will first and most effectively?
Prediction: Virginia 71, West Virginia 68
No. 6 Maryland vs. UConn
If you’re looking for a game with explosive guards, this one is for you. On the Huskies’ side, the combo of Jalen Adams, Sterling Gibbs, and Rodney Purvis is as dynamic as they come. For the Terps, Melo Trimble and Rasheed Sulaimon wear teams down over the course of a game so effectively, it allows guys like Robert Carter and Jake Laymen to take their time in finding spots to contribute. The key tonight will be whether or not UConn has the patience to work for good shots against the UMD defense. If they simply settle for early jumpers, this will get out of hand quickly.
Prediction: Maryland 84, UConn 72
No. 21 Vanderbilt vs. Dayton
The Commodores never gained any traction offensively against the Baylor Bears over the weekend, and the Flyers are certainly another defensive challenge, holding opponents to just 67 points per game thus far. The key here will be Damian Jones, just was held to single digits against Baylor and never made much of an impact on the defensive side either. If he gets back on track, it’ll be an Anchor Down affair.
Prediction: Vanderbilt 76, Dayton 70
No. 4 Iowa State vs. Iowa
This is one of the most underrated rivalries anywhere in America, and while the Cyclones are the clear favorite, this game is a personal favorite for the physical nature that it takes on every time. Plus, a match-up between Jarrod Uthoff and Georges Niang is an early holiday present for CBB fans everywhere.
Prediction: Iowa State 83, Iowa 70
