Colorado Buffaloes vs South Dakota State Jackrabbits Picks and Predictions December 13th 2024

Colorado Looks to Build Momentum Against South Dakota State

The Colorado Buffaloes (7-2) aim to close out their nonconference schedule on a high note as they host the South Dakota State Jackrabbits (8-4) Friday night in Boulder, Colo. With Big 12 play looming, Colorado seeks to sharpen its defensive play and build on its recent success.

Buffaloes Eye Defensive Improvement

Colorado is coming off a convincing 72-55 victory over in-state rival Colorado State, a performance that highlighted strides in defensive cohesion. Head coach Tad Boyle emphasized the importance of defensive progress as the team gears up for tougher competition:
“Defensively, we’re understanding what our jobs are. Now, we’re not where we need to be for sure, but we’re making strides.”

The Buffaloes are led by a balanced scoring trio:

• Andrej Jakimovski: 13.0 points per game
• Julian Hammond III: 12.3 points per game
• Elijah Moore: 12.0 points per game

Sophomore big man Bangot Dak showed his potential with a career-high 16 points against Colorado State, adding depth to Colorado’s frontcourt.

Jackrabbits Battle Injuries and Inconsistencies

South Dakota State enters the game following a 77-63 loss at Nevada, their second stop on a two-game road trip. The Jackrabbits are led by senior center Oscar Cluff, who averages 17.3 points and 11.0 rebounds per game. However, Cluff struggled against Nevada, scoring a season-low six points while managing an ankle injury.

Head coach Eric Henderson acknowledged Cluff’s resilience:
“I wish he was feeling a little better. He’s going to be fine, but he’s still nursing that ankle a little bit.”

Freshman Joe Sayler has been a consistent scorer, averaging 12.8 points per game and reaching double figures in his last three outings. Sophomore Kalen Garry (9.6 points per game) will look to regain form after averaging just 5.3 points in his last three contests.

Keys to the Game

Colorado Buffaloes:

• Defensive Consistency: Continue improving defensive rotations and limiting South Dakota State’s inside scoring.
• Balanced Scoring: Leverage their versatile offensive trio while integrating Dak’s inside presence.
• Control the Tempo: Use their depth to outpace the Jackrabbits, particularly late in the game.

South Dakota State Jackrabbits:

• Cluff’s Impact: Maximize Cluff’s contributions despite his ankle injury to dominate the paint.
• Perimeter Scoring: Rely on Sayler and Garry to stretch Colorado’s defense with consistent shooting.
• Energy on Defense: Contain Colorado’s scorers by tightening defensive pressure and rebounding effectively.

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Outlook and Stakes

With conference play around the corner, this matchup offers Colorado an opportunity to refine its defense and build chemistry. For South Dakota State, it’s a chance to measure themselves against a quality opponent while managing key injuries.

Colorado’s depth and defensive improvement make them the favorites, but the Jackrabbits’ resilience and Cluff’s presence could make this an intriguing contest. Both teams will look to leave a strong impression as they prepare for their respective league schedules.