VCU vs. BYU March Madness Preview and Prediction
In the No. 11 vs. No. 6 matchup in the NCAA Tournament East Region, the VCU Rams face the BYU Cougars in first-round action.
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How to Watch VCU vs. BYU
When: 4:05 p.m. ET on Thursday, March 20th
Where: Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado
Watch: TNT
Odds for VCU vs. BYU
(odds current at time of publish)
Spread: BYU -3.5 (-105), VCU +3.5 (-115)
Total: Over 143.5 (-105), Under 143.5 (-115)
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VCU vs. BYU Preview & Prediction
This clash pits BYU’s high-powered offense against VCU’s stifling defense, promising an exciting battle of contrasting styles. BYU, now led by former Phoenix Suns offensive guru Kevin Young, enters the tournament with a potent offense that ranks among the nation’s best. The Cougars excel at converting 2-point shots and have been shooting 37% from beyond the arc.
Their defensive performance has also improved down the stretch, suggesting they’re peaking at the right time. However, BYU’s turnover rate could be a concern against VCU’s pressure defense. BYU’s offense is so strong that it has masked some defensive vulnerabilities. The Cougars are outside the top 200 in 3-point percentage defense and around the national average in turnover percentage. Despite these weaknesses, they’ve done a good job of defending 2-point shots and limiting opponents’ second chances on the glass.
This balance has allowed BYU to thrive despite not being elite defensively. The Cougars’ experience playing at higher elevations could also give them an edge in Denver, especially since VCU hasn’t faced such conditions recently. Additionally, BYU has been playing over the last few weeks, which could give them momentum heading into the tournament.
VCU, a perennial mid-major powerhouse, returns to the NCAA Tournament under new head coach Ryan Odom. The former UMBC coach is no stranger to big March moments. The Rams boast a formidable defense, ranking in the top five in effective field goal percentage defense and 2-point percentage defense. Their ability to force turnovers and capitalize on them sets them apart from previous VCU teams. Notably, this year’s squad also features improved offensive efficiency, making them a more well-rounded threat.
VCU’s offense is particularly effective inside the arc and on the glass, where they excel at rebounding. However, they haven’t faced an offense as potent as BYU’s since mid-December, which could be a challenge. The Rams will need to contain BYU’s shooters and limit their scoring opportunities if they hope to keep the game close.
The game’s outcome may hinge on a few key factors. BYU’s guards, Dallin Hall and Egor Demin, must protect the ball against VCU’s disruptive defense. If VCU can contain BYU’s shooters and limit their scoring opportunities, they might be able to keep the game close and potentially pull off an upset. Conversely, if BYU can maintain its offensive rhythm and limit turnovers, they could overwhelm VCU and secure a victory.
This matchup presents an opportunity for both programs to break recent tournament droughts. BYU aims for its first Sweet 16 appearance since 2011, while VCU seeks its first tournament win since 2016. With BYU’s offensive firepower facing off against VCU’s defensive tenacity, fans can expect a compelling contest that could come down to the wire.
Estimated Score: BYU 72.9, VCU 70.5
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