Texas Tech Red Raiders vs Depaul Blue Demons Picks and Predictions December 4th 2024

Unbeaten DePaul out to halt Texas Tech’s home dominance

Wednesday’s Big 12-Big East Battle in Lubbock, Texas, sets the stage for an electrifying showdown as unbeaten DePaul faces its first major road test against Texas Tech, a team with an unmatched 35-game non-conference home winning streak. With both teams riding high on confidence and showcasing elite offensive efficiency, this game is more than just a regular-season clash—it’s a proving ground for both squads.

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DePaul: A Dream Start and a Big Test

DePaul has hit the ground running this season, boasting a flawless 7-0 record for the first time since 1942. However, this early success comes with a caveat—all their games so far have been played at home. Their visit to Lubbock marks the Blue Demons’ first encounter with a power-conference opponent, providing an opportunity to validate their early dominance.

Offensive Firepower:

• DePaul has been red-hot from beyond the arc, ranking third nationally with an average of 12.7 three-pointers per game.
• Key Players: Isaiah Rivera and Jacob Meyer have been instrumental, each sinking 19 three-pointers this season. Rivera leads the team with 14.9 points per game, closely followed by Meyer at 14.7.
• The team’s pace and efficiency have been standout features, with their offense averaging 88 points per game—a massive turnaround from last season’s dismal 3-29 record.

Coach Chris Holtmann’s Ambition:
New coach Chris Holtmann is eager to elevate DePaul’s profile. “We need to get to those (big games) quickly,” Holtmann told the Chicago Sun-Times. This matchup against Texas Tech offers precisely the kind of challenge he’s been preparing his team for.

Texas Tech: Home Dominance Personified

The Red Raiders have turned their home court into a fortress, winning 35 consecutive non-conference games in Lubbock. This season, they have dispatched five non-conference opponents by an average margin of 32 points, demonstrating a blend of offensive firepower and defensive grit.

Balanced Attack:

• Texas Tech’s offense is firing on all cylinders, averaging 92.6 points per game at home and 88.4 overall.
• Standout Performances: Darrion Williams delivered a season-best performance against Northern Colorado with 21 points and 10 rebounds, while Kevin Overton added 20 points.
• The Red Raiders thrive on efficiency, with sharp ball movement and high-percentage scoring opportunities, including an impressive 24-for-26 performance from the free-throw line in their last game.

Coach Grant McCasland’s Perspective:
McCasland has high praise for DePaul’s efficiency, calling them “one of the most efficient teams in college basketball.” He acknowledges the challenge posed by DePaul’s sharpshooters but remains confident in his team’s ability to execute their game plan.

Key Matchup: DePaul’s Shooting vs. Texas Tech’s Defense

This game will hinge on DePaul’s ability to maintain their three-point shooting prowess against Texas Tech’s disciplined defense. The Blue Demons rely heavily on their perimeter game, but the hostile Lubbock crowd and Red Raiders’ defensive schemes could disrupt their rhythm.

Conversely, Texas Tech’s balanced scoring and home-court advantage make them a formidable opponent. If they can capitalize on their offensive depth and limit DePaul’s outside shooting, they will extend their impressive streak.

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What’s at Stake?

This matchup is a litmus test for both teams:

• For DePaul: A win would solidify their status as a rising force and validate their unbeaten start against top-tier competition.
• For Texas Tech: Protecting their home streak and showcasing their dominance against a surging team would reinforce their reputation as one of the toughest teams to beat on home turf.

Prediction: A Battle of Efficiency and Execution

Both teams excel in offensive efficiency and have dynamic playmakers who can change the game’s momentum in an instant. While DePaul’s three-point shooting and fast pace will test Texas Tech’s defense, the Red Raiders’ home-court advantage and balanced scoring depth might just give them the edge.

Conclusion

This Big 12-Big East Battle promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams eager to prove themselves. DePaul’s sharpshooters will face their toughest challenge yet, while Texas Tech will aim to maintain their iron grip on home court. Regardless of the outcome, fans can expect a high-energy, hard-fought game that highlights the best of college basketball.