Villanova Wildcats vs Cincinnati Bearcats Picks and Predictions December 3rd 2024

No. 14 Cincinnati Expecting Tough Test from Villanova

Unbeaten Bearcats Meet Unpredictable Wildcats

The No. 14 Cincinnati Bearcats will look to maintain their perfect start to the season when they face Villanova on Tuesday in Philadelphia as part of the Big East-Big 12 Battle. For Villanova, the game presents an opportunity to steady their inconsistent play against a formidable opponent.

Cincinnati’s Defensive Dominance

The Bearcats (6-0) enter the matchup after a 77-59 victory over Alabama State last Wednesday, extending their unbeaten run. Cincinnati’s defense has been its hallmark, holding Alabama State to just 30.3 percent shooting from the field and 23.3 percent from beyond the arc. They also dominated the boards, outrebounding the Hornets 52-35.

Despite the win, Bearcats coach Wes Miller was dissatisfied with his team’s effort.

“I have nothing positive to say about the game, about our team,” Miller said. “We did not meet that standard tonight, and that makes me very angry, or disappointed.”

Under Miller, Cincinnati has excelled defensively, boasting a 38-8 record when holding teams below 40 percent shooting. The Bearcats are also 30-2 when limiting opponents to 50-59 points.

Villanova’s Defensive Versatility

Villanova (4-4) has struggled to find consistency, particularly against tougher competition. They have squandered second-half leads in losses to Maryland, Columbia, and St. Joseph’s. However, the Wildcats rebounded with a commanding 72-48 win over Rider last Wednesday, fueled by a reinvigorated defensive effort.

The Wildcats held Rider to just 20 first-half points and only four 3-pointers throughout the game. Four Villanova players scored in double figures, led by Eric Dixon’s 16 points. Jhamir Brickus added 15 points, including five 3-pointers.

“I thought we really played well defensively,” Villanova coach Kyle Neptune said after the win. “If we can defend like that, we’re going to be in a good spot.”

Villanova’s defensive schemes are a mix of zone, three-quarter court pressure, and man-to-man coverage, making them unpredictable and capable of disrupting opposing offenses.

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A Familiar Rivalry Rekindled

Tuesday’s game marks the first meeting between Cincinnati and Villanova since 2013, a game the Bearcats won 68-50. The Wildcats hold a narrow 6-4 advantage in the all-time series.

While Cincinnati has been consistent defensively, Villanova’s ability to bring its aggressive defensive mindset against the Bearcats will likely determine the outcome. Both teams are looking to build momentum, but for Villanova, a win could help stabilize their rocky start.