Purdue +3 vs Xavier: over/under 131.5
Purdue +3 vs. Xavier: O/U 131.5
The Boilermakers remain in the field of 32 after eliminating the Baylor Bears in impressive fashion. Purdue knocked down nearly 50% from the field and dropped nine three’s in their rout of their opening round opponent. The X-men used a slightly different model in advancing to this stage. After falling behind by nine at the break, the Musketeers used a 47-26 second half to put away the Georgia Bulldogs. UGA played well enough to stay close, but a 33 to five attempt discrepancy from the line was a bit more than they could overcome.
Xavier came into this show as a sexy pick to make a run. The team has shown the ability to score in bunches as well as the ability to lock down defensively at times this season. They have extremely balanced scoring, a good big man, a senior point guard, and more than one guy capable of getting hot from deep. The one thing this team is lacking is the guy who can truly take a game over, but they have so many weapons that they rarely need the superstar type to bail them.
The Boilermakers have flown under the radar all season and the lack of respect has not let up today. They come in as a three point dog to this Atlantic-10 representative and the public is laying the points. The boilermakers are represented well from the outside with three players hitting over 43% from behind the arc. Two days ago Kramer, Crump, and Johnson each played as well as they have all year in putting together one of the more impressive efforts this tourney has seen from anyone. While it would be a lot to expect them each to chip in with 10 or more points again tonight, these kids certainly seem ready for this stage.
Each of these schools really gets after it defensively, but the Musketeers have proven to be tougher to shoot well against. Some would suggest that, perhaps, Xavier has seen the easier schedule coming out of the A-10, but their SOS actually ranked 24th overall. Xavier starts three seniors to the Boilermakers zero. Xavier is better from the field offensive as well as defensively and they are one of the best FT shooting teams in the country; I like them to cover and advance.
Xavier -3
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Originally Posted by dannyt76
Good luck.
I can't believe it either. I actually like a favorite.
