Cincinnati Bearcats vs Howard Bison Picks and Predictions December 8th 2024

Cincinnati: Defense Leading the Way

The No. 14 Cincinnati Bearcats (6-1) suffered their first loss of the season on Tuesday, falling 68-60 at Villanova in the Big 12-Big East Battle. The defeat highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in the defensive execution that had previously been a strength.

Key Players for Cincinnati

• Jizzle James: The sophomore guard led Cincinnati with 19 points against Villanova and ranks second on the team in scoring at 14.6 points per game. His aggressive play and ability to drive the offense will be key against Howard.
• Simas Lukosius: Averaging a team-high 16 points per game, Lukosius is also among the nation’s leaders in assist-to-turnover ratio (3.6). His efficiency will be vital in helping Cincinnati avoid the mistakes that cost them against Villanova.
• Dan Skillings Jr.: The Bearcats have missed Skillings’ presence since he underwent a knee procedure. His potential return could provide a much-needed boost.

Despite their loss, the Bearcats remain one of the top defensive teams in the nation, allowing just 57.7 points per game (5th in the country). Offensively, Cincinnati has been efficient, shooting 51.5% from the field (7th nationally).

Coach Wes Miller was candid about the team’s shortcomings after the Villanova game:

“I didn’t like us defensively in the first half at all,” Miller said. “We didn’t carry over our game plan or do the things well that we value.”

A return to their home court provides Cincinnati with the opportunity to refocus and regain momentum.

Howard: Seeking a Signature Win

Howard (3-5) is on a three-game losing streak and hasn’t played since a 79-75 loss to Mount St. Mary’s on Nov. 30. The Bison, two-time defending MEAC tournament champions, are using a tough nonconference schedule to prepare for their title defense.

Key Players for Howard

• Marcus Dockery: The senior guard leads Howard with 14.4 points per game while shooting 47.4% from the field and 44.4% from 3-point range. His scoring ability will be essential if Howard hopes to upset Cincinnati.
• Blake Harper: A standout freshman, Harper has been named MEAC Rookie of the Week four times this season. Averaging 13.9 points per game, he’s already one of the most versatile players in the conference.
• Bryce Harris: The MEAC Preseason Player of the Year has been limited recently by injuries. If he returns to action, his presence would significantly bolster Howard’s chances.

Howard has faced top-tier competition this season, including Kansas and Missouri. Coach Kenny Blakeney believes these matchups are crucial for building his team’s resilience.

“If we can figure out and find out some of the answers on our team, sooner than later, we’re able to work on those things and get better throughout the year,” Blakeney said.

Key Matchups to Watch

• Jizzle James vs. Marcus Dockery: Both guards lead their teams in scoring and will likely dictate the offensive tempo. James’ defensive skills could neutralize Dockery’s outside shooting.
• Simas Lukosius vs. Blake Harper: The experienced Lukosius will try to outmaneuver Harper, who has shown maturity beyond his years.
• Cincinnati Defense vs. Howard’s Perimeter Shooting: Howard will rely on Dockery and Harper to connect from long range, while Cincinnati’s defense looks to smother the Bison’s offense.

What’s at Stake?

• For Cincinnati: A bounce-back win would reaffirm their defensive identity and set the tone for the rest of their nonconference schedule.
• For Howard: A strong showing—or an upset—against a ranked opponent would provide invaluable experience and confidence heading into MEAC play.

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Prediction

Cincinnati’s defense and depth should overpower Howard, especially with the Bearcats returning home. If Howard’s Bryce Harris is unavailable or limited, the Bison’s chances diminish further. Expect Cincinnati to control the pace and pull away in the second half.

Final Score Prediction: Cincinnati 78, Howard 62