Stanford Cardinal vs Virginia Cavaliers Picks and Predictions January 11th 2025

Stanford, Raynaud Aim to Keep Rolling as Virginia Visits

Stanford will look to build on the momentum of a crucial home win when it hosts Virginia on Saturday afternoon. The Cardinal (10-5, 2-2 Pac-12) are buoyed by the standout play of Maxime Raynaud, whose dominance inside could spell trouble for the Cavaliers (8-7, 1-3 ACC).

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Raynaud’s Star Power

Raynaud delivered his nation-leading 12th double-double with 19 points and 14 rebounds in Stanford’s 70-59 victory over Virginia Tech on Wednesday. The win not only ended a three-game skid but also marked Stanford’s first home ACC victory, giving the Cardinal a boost in confidence.

“It felt amazing,” Raynaud said. “The whole conference is very competitive, so it felt great to start off with a good win. It’s really big for our program.”

The 7-foot senior has been the centerpiece of Stanford’s success, providing consistent scoring and rebounding. His performance on Saturday will be pivotal as the Cardinal seek to remain unbeaten (4-0) against Virginia at home.

Virginia’s Struggles Continue

The Cavaliers arrive in Stanford on the heels of a 75-61 loss at Cal on Wednesday, their second consecutive double-digit defeat. With a sputtering offense and key injuries, Virginia’s challenge will be containing Raynaud while jump-starting its own play.

Freshman Christian Bliss, touted as a potential difference-maker, remains sidelined with a foot injury, and his debut has been postponed to at least next week. In his absence, Jacob Cofie, a 6-foot-10 freshman, is expected to draw the assignment of defending Raynaud.

Cofie has shown promise, recording two double-doubles in his young career. Against Cal, he contributed 12 points and four rebounds but will need to elevate his game to counter Raynaud’s physical presence.

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Key Matchups and Factors

• Maxime Raynaud vs. Virginia’s Defense: Raynaud’s ability to dominate inside has been Stanford’s cornerstone. Virginia will need a team effort to slow him down, with Cofie playing a crucial role.
• Stanford’s Home Edge: The Cardinal have a perfect record at home against Virginia, giving them historical and psychological advantages.
• Virginia’s Shooting Woes: The Cavaliers must improve offensively after back-to-back lackluster showings, including a 50-point effort at home against Louisville.

What’s at Stake

For Stanford, a win would solidify its position as a rising force in the Pac-12 and a legitimate threat in nonconference play. For Virginia, avoiding a winless California trip is crucial to regaining its footing in the competitive ACC.

Expect a battle of wills as Stanford’s interior dominance clashes with Virginia’s need to find consistency on both ends of the court.