Line: This is effectively a '‘ick-em’ game on Torvik, the same on ESPN with a 53% Bronco win probability, no line yet on ESPN
USF:
20-6 on the season, 7-4 in the WCC, half game behind the Broncos. Dons walloped Pepp last night, 105-61, so they’ll be feeling pretty good about themselves. Was hoping the Waves would put up more of a fight, but USF was able to rest their starters in the blowout, no one played more than 27 minutes.
Not much has changed for the Dons since we played them 2 weeks ago. Still all about Bouyea (outside) and Massalski (inside). Keep an eye on Khalil Shabazz, quick, dynamic athlete but has always been a streaky, up/down offensive player, not as consistent or efficient as Bouyea. Shabazz is their 3rd leading scorer at just under 13/game but inefficient at 32% on 3’s and 37% overall. However, he just posted 24pts vs. the Waves on 5/9 from 3pt territory. He’s a potential key 3rd contributor for the Dons. Expect Pipes and Stewart to be matched up on him.
Broncos just need to keep Bouyea and Massalski from going nuts, and keep Massalski off the glass (he’s on a streak of 8 games w/ double digit boards and had 20rebounds vs. Portland this week). Offensively for the Broncos: keep doing what we have been…share the ball, balanced scoring, get out and run and look for early offense. Not a game or matchup to play through Vrankic in the post as both Massalski and Tape are bigger, stronger and solid defenders.
Hope the students and alumni turn out.
Prediction:
Broncos keep it rolling, beat the Dons 81-77
It keeps moving back and forth. If I knew we would have a great crowd then I would say we should be favored but if it is a “meh” crowd then I would say USF. The Dons have been good on the road this year (defense travels).
I put in a teaser bet on the Broncos and the Over.
I think it is going to be a battle, just like the first match a few weeks ago, and the final score differential will be within 6 either way
I also think that there will be some points. Our boys have warmed up on offense, and I read a stat that we are middle-of-the-pack (#130 or so) nationally on defense.
Massalski killing us…was worried about our ability to defend him and keep him off the boards.
And less Vrankic please…those 1st 6 minutes were an example of why I harp on how we play through him too often, 1-6 to start, and early shot clock jumpers we simply don’t need, we can get that quality of shot any time. I want us to play fast and look for early offense but need to be high efficiency shots.