Florida State Seminoles vs Tulane Green Wave Picks and Predictions December 14th 2024

In Orange Bowl Classic, Tulane out to keep Florida State down

Tulane and Florida State are set to clash in the Orange Bowl Classic on Saturday afternoon in Sunrise, Fla., with both teams looking to make a statement. Tulane hopes to capitalize on a recent victory and build momentum, while Florida State aims to avoid a three-game losing streak.

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Tulane’s Struggles and Recent Rebound

The Tulane Green Wave (5-6) snapped a five-game losing streak on Tuesday with a commanding 86-58 victory over Southern Mississippi. During their skid, Tulane suffered close losses due to a mix of defensive lapses and offensive turnovers. However, their recent win showcased improved focus, especially on defense, as they forced 21 turnovers to control the game.

Head coach Ron Hunter acknowledged the growing pains of his young roster, saying:
“Just like most young teams, we panic and lose our confidence. Defensively, rotations get out of whack, and offensively we turn the ball over trying to get it all back in one possession—mistakes that veteran teams don’t make.”

For Tulane, Kaleb Banks has been a standout performer, averaging 16.1 points and 7.3 rebounds per game, while Rowan Brumbaugh contributes 13.3 points and a team-best five assists per game. Their leadership on the court will be crucial as the team looks to maintain consistency against a tough opponent.

Florida State’s Challenges and Goals

The Florida State Seminoles (7-3) enter the matchup on a two-game losing streak after falling to LSU and NC State, the latter in their Atlantic Coast Conference opener. Despite their struggles, the Seminoles bring a strong history in the Orange Bowl Classic, boasting a 9-4 record in the event. Florida State has also dominated Tulane in their past three meetings and holds a 26-12 advantage in the all-time series.

Head coach Leonard Hamilton recognizes that while his team has the talent to compete, they’ve struggled to execute instinctively on both ends of the court:
“It’s more thinking going on right now on offense and defense than reacting and playing instinctively. And that’s what our biggest challenge is.”

The Seminoles will lean on Jamir Watkins, who leads the team with 17.7 points per game despite shooting just 27.3% from beyond the arc. Malique Ewin has been a consistent contributor, scoring in double figures in seven consecutive games and averaging 12.4 points and 6.9 rebounds per game.

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Key Matchups to Watch

• Kaleb Banks vs. Malique Ewin:
  Both players are strong inside scorers and rebounders. Their ability to dominate the paint could swing the game in their team’s favor.
• Tulane’s Defense vs. Florida State’s Turnovers:
  Tulane has shown it can pressure opponents into making mistakes, as evidenced by their 21 forced turnovers in their last outing. Florida State, on the other hand, will need to clean up its offensive execution to avoid falling into a similar trap.
• Jamir Watkins’ Shooting:
  Watkins has been Florida State’s leading scorer but has struggled with consistency from long range. How effectively he adjusts could determine whether the Seminoles can break through Tulane’s defense.

Game Significance

For Tulane, this marks their first-ever appearance in the Orange Bowl Classic, adding extra motivation to secure a win. Florida State, a seasoned participant in the event, will rely on their experience to right the ship and regain momentum after recent losses.

The outcome of this game could significantly shape both teams’ confidence as they approach the heart of their respective schedules.

What to Expect

This matchup promises to be a test of resilience and composure. Tulane will look to build on their newfound defensive intensity and take advantage of Florida State’s struggles with offensive execution. Meanwhile, the Seminoles aim to leverage their depth and experience to outlast the Green Wave.

Prediction

Given Florida State’s history in the event and their edge in experience, they enter as slight favorites. However, if Tulane can replicate the defensive tenacity they displayed against Southern Miss and maintain poise under pressure, they have a legitimate shot at an upset.

This clash between two programs searching for consistency will be a must-watch for basketball fans. Will Tulane’s young roster rise to the occasion, or will Florida State’s veterans restore their winning ways? The Orange Bowl Classic has all the ingredients for a thrilling showdown.