Villanova Wildcats vs
USC TrojansPredictions & Preview

Villanova Wildcats Favored Over USC Trojans in College Basketball Crown Quarterfinals matchup at MGM Grand Garden Arena

In the quarterfinals of the College Basketball Crown, the Villanova Wildcats (20-14) will take on the USC Trojans (17-17) at MGM Grand Garden Arena at 9:30 pm EST on FS1. Villanova is currently favored by 5.5 points, with the total points line set at 151.5. The Wildcats opened as a 5.25-point favorite but the line has since moved to -5.5. Stay tuned for our prediction on the Villanova vs USC matchup.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Wildcats -240 | Trojans +200
• Spread: Wildcats -5.5 (-110) | Trojans +5.5 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 152.25 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Villanova will win straight-up is 71%.

Villanova vs USC Stats

Villanova Wildcats

Villanova's basketball season has been marked by highs and lows, leading to the dismissal of head coach Kyle Neptune after three seasons without an NCAA Tournament appearance. Interim head coach Mike Nardi is currently leading the team during the CBC tournament. Despite the challenges, Villanova showed promise in their first-round CBC game, defeating Colorado 85-64 with standout performances from Wooga Poplar and Eric Dixon. Dixon has been a star player throughout the season, averaging an impressive 23 points per game. Overall, Villanova is rated 52nd overall by KenPom, ranking 23rd in offensive rating and 108th in defense. Offensively, the Wildcats have been strong, shooting well from the field and free throw line, and hitting three-pointers at a high rate. Defensively, they have had some struggles but were able to hold Colorado to low shooting percentages in their recent game. In terms of statistics, Villanova ranks well in free throw shooting and three-point shooting, while showing room for improvement in rebounding and turnovers.

USC Trojans Analysis

The USC Trojans, led by head coach Eric Musselman, are aiming to finish their season on a high note. They have shown strength on offense, ranking 38th in the country, but have struggled defensively, coming in at 95th. Recently, the Trojans secured a dominating win over Tulane in the College Basketball Crown, with Rashaun Agee leading the team in points and rebounds. Desmond Claude and Wesley Yates III have been standout scorers for USC throughout the season. Despite their defensive challenges, the Trojans have shown prowess in shooting, rebounding, and assists. As they continue to compete, USC is determined to maintain their offensive prowess and improve on the defensive end.

Point Spread Favors USC Over Villanova in Close Matchup

I believe that while a Villanova victory is certainly possible, the point spread has become too significant to justify favoring the favorite. Both teams exhibit strong offensive capabilities but also show inconsistencies on defense. USC has faced a marginally more challenging schedule this season, ranking 45th in strength of schedule on KenPom compared to Villanova's 70th ranking. Additionally, the Trojans have the advantage of maintaining coaching stability. Given the competitive nature of both teams, I anticipate a closely contested game likely to be decided in the final minutes. Therefore, I am inclined to take the points in this matchup.

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