8:30 p.m. ET: Xavier Musketeers (11-2) at Butler Bulldogs (8-5)

Spread: Xavier -6.5
Total: 132

The #22 Xavier Muskateers haven’t played since losing on the road to Villanova on Dec. 21 and Tuesday’s game at Georgetown was postponed due to a COVID-19 pause on the part of the Hoyas. Butler lost to #24 Seton Hall 71-56 on Tuesday at home and scored only 40 points in the last 33 minutes of the game. Butler guard Bo Hodges, who averaged 8.2 points last season, has yet to play this season because of a knee injury and a non-COVID-19 illness but is expected to play in this one. The Bulldogs have dealt with injuries and suspensions to key players throughout the season but will also have Bryce Nze back in the lineup. The Xavier defense has also been very different at home as opposed to on the road, allowing 21.9 points per 100 possessions more when away from home. Butler’s defense is holding opponents to 27.5% 3-point shooting at home this season. Xavier has started the season playing good ball but will be tested on the road in this game. Butler likes to slow the pace down and should be able to take this team out of their game. Butler can’t afford to continue to lose at home so you can expect them to show up in this one especially with the additional players back on the roster. Take the Bulldogs to cover the spread and possibly win outright. 

Trends

• The Underdog is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.
• The Road team is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.

The Bookie:          Butler +6.5 / Under 132
Fade the Public:   Butler / Under
Sharp Action:       Butler / Over