No.10 Marquette Takes on No.14 Villanova in Battle for First Place in Big East

No.10 Marquette(19-4)(8-2) is coming a heartbreaking 70-69 loss to St.John’s and looks to bounce back against Villanova. While Villanova is coming off a close win over Creighton and looks to put some distance in the Big East standings.

How Marquette Can Win: 

Villanova has played great as of late and have won 11 straight games but in all of their losses one thing was constant. That is, Villanova has been out rebounded in every loss they have suffered this season. With Villanova’s stingy defense that has only allowed 66 points a game, the Golden Eagles should try to take advantage of the Wildcat’s poor rebounding. By getting offensive rebounds which could lead to second chance points.

How Villanova Can Win:

If Villanova wants to win this game they have to keep junior guard Markus Howard in check. Howard has went ballistic in games against ranked opponents this season, including a 45 point performance against a ranked Buffalo team. The Wildcats should also be able to take advantage of a poor Marquette defense as the Golden Eagles have been allowing 69 points a game which is good for 122nd in the nation.

Players to Watch:

For Marquette, they need Markus Howard to continue to have big games against ranked opponents. Howard has averaged 24 points, four rebounds and four assists this season.

If Villanova wants to keep control of the Big East they senior Phil Booth to continue his stellar play. Booth has averaged 18 points, three rebounds, and four assists while shooting 44% from the field.

Score Prediction: 

Villanova has been playing great as of late, but I’m still gonna go with Marquette. As the Golden Eagles will be at home and has the best player out of either team which is Markus Howard. Howard will have a huge game in way to a slim Golden Eagle victory. Golden Eagles: 80 Wildcats: 79

Image via: USA Today