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Gamblin’ Odds

Villanova is favored by 8 points according to OddsShark

Last Time on Big East Basketball

Marquette traveled to Philly to take on No. 3 Villanova at Wells Fargo Center. Markus Howard made it rain, dropping 37 points. However, the Wildcats prevailed with an All-American performance from Jalen Brunson and major contributions from Eric Paschall. Six Wildcats were in double figures for points that game, with Villanova winning 100-90.

In the all-time series, Villanova leads 21-10. Marquette’s last victory over the Wildcats came at home last January, when the Wildcats were also No. 1. Can we see history repeat itself?

Notes for Both

For Marquette, they need a solid performance from multiple players if they hope to beat the Wildcats today. Markus Howard needs to continue his hot shooting, along with receiving a help from Andrew Rowsey. Both can score 20 points at any given moment, and Sunday, they must. On defense, Marquette as a team needs to prevent easy looks at the basket as well as second chance points, which is something that Villanova capitalizes on. One thing to take advantage of is the absence of senior guard Phil Booth. Although Villanova blew out Providence, Marquette’s trio of talented guards could cause havoc.

For Villanova, they need to make their shots. I know that sounds weird for basketball, but they occasionally have games where nothing falls. Case in point: Playing Marquette on the road last year. However, they should take the ball inside as much as possible to exploit the lack of talented size Marquette has. Look for Omari Spellman and Eric Paschall to burden that load. Apply the ³⁄₄-court pressure early against Marquette and force turnovers to really put Marquette in a bad spot.

Another key for Villanova is to hold down the perimeter. The Wildcats, defensively, have not been as good as they were in the past, and have previously allowed Marquette to drop 90 points on them. I look to Mikal Bridges and Jalen Brunson to help anchor the perimeter, with Omari Spellman cleaning the glass.