Cincinnati (6-0) at Villanova (4-4)
- When: Dec 3 2024, 6:30 PM
- Where: The William B. Finneran Pavilion, Bryn Mawr, PA, USA
- Where to watch: Fox Sports 1
Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total
Cincinnati (#14) @ Villanova
Moneyline
Cincinnati (#14) -160
Villanova +135
Cincinnati (#14) @ Villanova
Point Spread
Cincinnati (#14) -3.5 (-105)
Villanova 3.5 (-115)
Cincinnati (#14) @ Villanova
Total
Over 139.0 (-110)
Under 139.0 (-110)
- Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
Team Stats
| Cincinnati | Villanova | |
| 6-0 | Record | 4-4 |
| 2-0 | Away & Home | 4-1 |
| 4-2-0 | ATS | 4-4-0 |
| 1-5-0 | O/U | 6-1-1 |
Last Matchup:
CIN 68-50, February 12th, 2013
Game Preview
The 14th-ranked Cincinnati Bearcats (6-0) travel to Philadelphia on Tuesday night to face the Villanova Wildcats (4-4) in an exciting Big East-Big 12 Battle matchup. Cincinnati looks to extend its perfect season start, while Villanova seeks consistency against high-level competition.
Bearcats Seek 7-0 Start
Cincinnati maintained its unbeaten record last Wednesday with a 77-59 victory over Alabama State. The win marked the Bearcats’ second consecutive 6-0 start to a season. Cincinnati relied on lockdown defense, holding the Hornets to just 30.3% shooting and an ice-cold 23.3% from beyond the arc. The Bearcats dominated the boards with a 52-35 rebounding advantage but left head coach Wes Miller unimpressed with their effort.
“I have nothing positive to say about the game,” Miller said. “We did not meet our standard, and that makes me very disappointed.”
Despite the criticism, Cincinnati has been stellar under Miller when limiting opponents to under 40% shooting, boasting a 38-8 record. They are also 30-2 when keeping teams in the 50-59 point range, emphasizing the importance of their defensive identity.
Villanova’s Quest for Consistency
The Wildcats have shown flashes of brilliance, such as dominant wins over Penn (93-49) and Rider (72-48). However, inconsistency against tougher opponents has hampered their season. Villanova blew double-digit leads in losses to Maryland, Columbia, and St. Joseph’s, highlighting struggles in closing out games.
Villanova bounced back against Rider last week with an improved defensive showing, limiting the Broncs to just 20 first-half points and only four 3-pointers for the game. Four Wildcats scored in double figures, led by graduate student Eric Dixon’s 16 points and Jhamir Brickus’ 15 points on an impressive 5-of-7 from three-point range.
“I thought we really played well defensively,” said Villanova head coach Kyle Neptune. “If we can defend like that, we’re going to be in a good spot.”
Villanova’s defense thrives on versatility, employing zone schemes, three-quarter court pressure, and man-to-man adjustments to disrupt opponents. This unpredictability will be key against Cincinnati’s disciplined attack.
Historic Rivalry Renewed
This is the first meeting between these former Big East foes since 2013, when Cincinnati won 68-50. Villanova leads the all-time series 6-4, but the Bearcats bring momentum and a stifling defense into this showdown.
What to Expect
Villanova’s defense must maintain its recent form to contain Cincinnati’s high-effort play. Meanwhile, the Bearcats will look to exploit Villanova’s second-half vulnerabilities and lean on their rebounding edge to control the tempo. The Wildcats’ inconsistent performance against strong competition sets the stage for Cincinnati to capitalize and extend its unbeaten streak.
Betting Insight:
Cincinnati’s defense and rebounding prowess make them a reliable pick on the road. Villanova’s unpredictable performance against tough teams adds risk for bettors backing the Wildcats. Consider Cincinnati to cover the spread in this intriguing clash.
NCAA Basketball Parlay Picks & Predictions
Final Score: Cincinnati 75-67
The Pick: Cincinnati -3½ (-105) & Over 139
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $364
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
