(18) Florida State at Clemson
This is an important game for Clemson to establish themselves towards the top of the ACC. Now, their ability to guard Scottie Barnes with his size and physicality will be important to slow down Florida State. Additionally, the ability for Aamir Simms to dominate the game will be tough with his matchup of RaiQuan Gray. Also, the consistent guard play of Clyde Trapp and Nick Honor will be important for Clemson to get their scoring. Next, the Clemson defense on Anthony Polite and M.J. Walker will be key for them to not make shots the perimeter. Further, Balsa Koprivica must continue to be a force inside for Florida State and give them that go-to option. The depth battle in this game will be vital because of how deep each team is someone will emerge from the bench. Clemson will prove to be legit by getting a big win over Florida State.
Matchup to Watch: Aamir Simms vs RaiQuan Gray
Prediction: Clemson 75 Florida State 70
(19) Northwestern at (10) Iowa
Matchup to Watch: Luka Garza vs Pete Nance
Prediction: Iowa 82 Northwestern 76
(7) Tennessee at (12) Missouri
This is the battle for the top of the SEC with Missouri having a tremendous opportunity to take on Tennessee. Furthermore, the perimeter play for Missouri must set the tone in this matchup. Next, Dru Smith has the ability to play with tempo and can speed up Santiago Vescovi throughout the game. Continued, Xavier Pinson has the capability to take over this game with his craftiness around the basket and getting others involved. Additionally, the frontcourt defense of Missouri will be vital against John Fulkerson and Yves Ponds. Therefore, Jeremiah Tilmon will need to use his size and physicality against the Tennessee frontcourt. Victor Bailey and Josiah Jordan-James will be really important to bring consistent scoring for the Tennessee offense. The Tennessee defense has been very good this season only allowing 52.7 points per game which will be key again this game. The talent and experience of Tennessee will get a massive road win at Missouri.
Matchup to Watch: Dru Smith vs Santiago Vescovi
Prediction: Tennessee 70 Missouri 66
Seton Hall at Xavier
Matchup to Watch: Jared Rhoden vs Adam Kunkel
Prediction: Xavier 77 Seton Hall 70
(21) Minnesota at (6) Wisconsin
Wisconsin is proving to be the best team in the Big Ten and is the most experienced. The backcourt duo of D’Mitrik Trice and Brad Davison has been very good this season. The perimeter defense of these two will be crucial against Marcus Carr who has the ability to take over any game. Next, the ability for Wisconsin to slow down Liam Robbins will be important to not let the Minnesota offense be comfortable. The matchup where Wisconsin can take advantage is against the wings where Aleem Ford is very steady. For Minnesota, they will need Marcus Carr at his very best against the Wisconsin backcourt. As well as, needing Gabe Kalscheur and Both Gach to play well on the wings. Also, Liam Robbins must stay out of foul trouble for Minnesota to have an opportunity to win this game. The x-factor for Minnesota will be Brandon Johnson who was terrific against Iowa. The experience of Wisconsin and the ability to contain Marcus Carr will lead them to the victory.
Matchup to Watch: D’Mitrik Trice vs Marcus Carr
Prediction: Wisconsin 75 Minnesota 68
Images Courtesy of, Clemson Athletics, Sports Illustrated, The Athletic
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