Rick said

South Alabama (10-4, 2-0) @ FAU (5-8, 1-1)

When: Saturday, Jan. 2nd - 7:22 PM EST
Game will start 30:00 after conclusion of the women's game

Where: Boca Raton, FL - The Burrow

Live Video: FAU Pay Per View

ESPN 760 Internet Broadcast: Here

Live Stats: None

USA Team Site: Here


Probable Starters:


USA

G Allynn Cooks 7.1 ppg
G Brian Sherrer 11.0 ppg
G Tim Williams 13.9 ppg
F Martino Brock 10.9 ppg
C Charles Tabet 2.0 ppg


FAU

G Ray Taylor 17.2 ppg
G Greg Gantt 13.1 ppg
F Sanchez Hughley 8.7 ppg
F Brett Royster 8.8 ppg
C Justin Davis 0.5 ppg


The Series

The Owls and Jaguars have met six times in a series dating back to 2007.  USA holds a 5-1 advantage. FAU's lone win came on February 21, 2007, 79-69 at home.


USA at a Glance

The Jaguars knocked of FIU Thursday in a defensive battle that featured 19 steals between the two squads.

And its no surprise since South Alabama makes its bread and butter on the defensive end with a league best 65.4 points allowed per game.

Of note, the Jaguars are holding opponents to just 30.3% from long range (2nd), and are currently average 7.8 swipes per game (3rd).

“It’s great to win the final game of the old year and go into the new year on a good note. I think our guys are finally understanding what it’s all about defensively", USA head coach Ronnie Arrow said.

Free throws were also critical as the Jags hit 22-24 (91.7%) for the contest. USA guard Brian Sherrer is currently third in the league in free throws with an impressive 61-67 makes (91%).


FAU at a Glance

The Owls suffered their first home loss this past Tuesday against Hofstra 67-63.  Sanchez Hughley led FAU with 14 points, and Brett Royster had a game-high 13 rebounds.  But FAU missed 11 free throws on the night.

"You have to do those things if you are going to win. I'll continue to emphasize in practice, and maybe one of these days it will carry over to a game. Were going to keep repeating until somebody retains", said Mike Jarvis.

FAU is currently fifth in three point percentage (37.9%) overall amongst Sun Belt members, and will be looking to snap a four game skid going back to a 87-69 loss to the Hurricanes in the Orange Bowl Classic.


Latest Line:

FAU -2.5


Owl's Nest Prediction

Hesitant to pick FAU given the inconsistent performance of the front court and overall shooting the last two games, but USA does not have a strong inside presence. And that has undoubtedly been FAU's Achilles heel this season.

Additionally, would expect the Owls to have more attempts from beyond the three point line. You have to play to your strengths in league play, and it is here to stay for the rest of the ride.

The Owls may get the inside game going somewhat given USA's size.  Need to take advantage of the opportunity if it is there considering the perimeter defense of the Jaguars.

Owls win a tight one.

FAU -2

Rick said

Final: FAU 93 USA 96. Owls drop heart breaker in OT.

Rick said

Final: FAU 93 USA 96. Owls drop heart breaker in OT.