In this exciting college basketball matchup on November 28, 2023, the Southern Jaguars, currently ranked sixth in the Southwestern Athletic Conference with a 1-5 record, will face off against the third-ranked Marquette Golden Eagles, sitting in fourth place in the Big East with a strong 5-1 record. It’s a clash between two teams from different conferences, and both have unique strengths and weaknesses. Let’s dive into their recent performances, key stats, and predict the outcome of this showdown. You’re welcome to read our Southern vs Marquette Prediction.

The Southern Jaguars’ Struggles and Hopes

As the Southern Jaguars navigate the early stages of the 2023-2024 college basketball season, they find themselves in a challenging position. With a 1-5 record, they occupy the sixth spot in the Southwestern Athletic Conference, facing a steep climb to turn their fortunes around. Their recent performance tells a story of offensive struggles that have hindered their ability to compete at a higher level. Averaging just 69.7 points per game, they rank 272nd in the nation in scoring. This deficiency is further highlighted by their field goal percentage, a meager 42.4. Their inability to consistently convert scoring opportunities into points has been a significant setback.

On the defensive end, the Jaguars have faced substantial challenges, allowing an average of 87.2 points per game, which ranks them 357th nationally. Their opponents have found success in shooting, with a troubling 53.1 field goal percentage against Southern’s defense. 

Key players for the Southern Jaguars include guard Tai’reon Joseph, who leads the team in scoring with an average of 16.2 points per game. Joseph’s ability to create scoring opportunities will be vital for the team’s offensive improvement. Guard Tyler Kolek, with 5.5 assists per game, serves as the primary playmaker, tasked with facilitating the offense and creating open looks for his teammates. In the rebounding department, forward Oso Ighodarois a force, averaging 6.0 boards per game. It’s worth mentioning that Reynolds boasts an impressive 100.0% field goal percentage, albeit on limited attempts, showcasing his efficiency when called upon.

Looking ahead, the Southern Jaguars face a daunting task against Marquette. To have any chance of pulling off an upset, they must improve their offensive efficiency by taking high-percentage shots and minimizing turnovers. Defensively, they need to tighten up rotations, contest shots effectively, and find ways to reduce their opponents’ field goal percentage. Rebounding will be a crucial battleground, and they’ll need to work collectively to secure boards and limit second-chance opportunities for Marquette.

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 Marquette’s Golden Formula for Success

The Marquette Golden Eagles enter this matchup with a promising 5-1 record, demonstrating their ability to compete at a high level consistently. They have showcased a well-rounded game, averaging 79.5 points per contest, which ranks them 99th in the nation. Their efficient scoring, highlighted by a field goal percentage of 48.9% (47th), has been a significant contributor to their success. Additionally, their defensive efforts have been rock-solid, allowing only 67.5 points per game, positioning them at 123rd nationally.

Guard Kam Jones has emerged as the leading scorer for Marquette, averaging 16.2 points per game. Jones possesses the ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates, making him a key offensive asset. Guard Tyler Kolek, with 5.5 assists per contest, serves as a valuable playmaker, orchestrating the team’s offensive sets and facilitating ball movement. In the rebounding department, forward Oso Ighodaro has been a force, grabbing an impressive 7.3 rebounds per game, providing the Golden Eagles with crucial second-chance opportunities. Notably, guard Cameron Brown boasts a remarkable 100.0 field goal percentage, although it’s important to note that his attempts are limited.

Marquette’s well-rounded performance on both ends of the court positions them as the clear favorites in this matchup. To maintain their success, they need to continue efficient scoring, emphasizing high-percentage shots and ball movement. On the defensive side, they must maintain their strong presence, contesting shots effectively and minimizing their opponent’s field goal percentage. Controlling the tempo of the game will be pivotal in securing another victory.

 

David’s Pick: Marquette Golden Eagles -29.5

In this Southern vs. Marquette matchup, the statistics strongly favor the Marquette Golden Eagles. Their balanced and efficient play on both ends of the court sets them apart from the struggling Southern Jaguars. Marquette’s ability to score efficiently, boasting a 48.9 field goal percentage, while limiting their opponents to 67.5 points per game, showcases their overall strength.

Southern’s offensive struggles, averaging just 69.7 points per game with a 42.4 field goal percentage, are likely to continue against Marquette’s solid defense. Furthermore, Marquette’s dominance on the boards, led by Oso Ighodaro’s 7.3 rebounds per game, will limit second-chance opportunities for the Jaguars.

Taking all these factors into account, my pick for this game is the Marquette Golden Eagles to win with a final score of 75-62. Marquette’s well-rounded performance and ability to control the game’s pace will be the determining factors in securing this victory. Southern will face an uphill battle trying to match Marquette’s scoring and defensive prowess.