Chief Editor
Loading ...
These are two athletic teams that are relentless. Miami beat the Indiana Hoosiers on athletic ability and toughness, which can carry teams a long way. Houston has been considered one of the two best teams in the country with Alabama all year.
Houston’s defense allowed more than 70 points four times, including a 71-65 defeat to Alabama.
Miami will come out swinging, looking to score in waves. But its size and strength don’t quite measure up to that of the Cougars; thus, they’ll need to work a bit harder against a defense that often leaves teams cold.
Auburn had the kind of native team that could get up and down the floor while being active on the boards, but Houston stopped that in the second half for an incredible 81-64 victory. Auburn had its offense clicking, and once Houston turned that defense on, it was game over.
Few teams are as active as Miami.
The only ACC team left in the tournament got past Indiana by running, running some more, and hitting everything from the field early on – creating easy baskets along the way. That’s what it does – it creates opportunities for points.
It moves the ball well, gets to the rim without much of a struggle and hits threes easily – hitting 39% in an easy 85-69 victory against Indiana.
The defense isn’t great, but it’s effective enough on the boards to get by, doesn’t hack and generates steals and forces mistakes. Ultimately though, success lies with the offense.
Duke defeated the Hurricanes in an intense shootout during the ACC Tournament, but their only other losses when scoring 74 points or more occurred under unusual circumstances: one overtime loss to NC State and one last-second shot against Florida State. It remains possible to defeat these Hurricanes with determination – Duke did just that during that epic contest!
Houston is 6-2 when their offense clicks, and when they allow less than 70 points, they usually come out on top.
These two teams have not played this season.
Can Houston keep down the Miami offense for a full 40 minutes? That isn’t very likely.
Miami can play a little defense, too. It might give up a slew of points, but it will also do a decent job from three and take the ball away.
Miami winning will depend on the offensive production and whether they can hold their own on the boards. Miami’s defense makes this easy to take 7.5 points, the Canes will cover.
21+ and present in VA. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.