Know Thy Enemy: Cincinnati

Coach Cronin is hyped for this game.

As the season comes to a close, the Bulls find themselves on the bubble for the NCAA tournament and need a few more wins if they want to get a bid.  The Big East though is no easy task and USF will have it hands full as the Bearcats of Cincinnati invade the Forum for a huge game.  To get a better idea of what the Bulls can expect in this game, I asked my friend Jesse from the Volvo Big East Challenge to get some inside information in this late season battle (make sure to check out his site HERE). 

1.  How do teams prepare to stop a skilled shooter like Sean Kilpatrick and how can a defender get him off his game?

SK is a tough cover but I think teams want him to shoot off of the dribble more than allow him to catch and shoot. He can drive also, so it is about the defender making him work for his points by staying attached to him at all times. 

2. USF is 13-1 at home this season and has been dominate at times over other teams.  How will Cincinnati handle the road pressure this late in the season?

I'm aware you guys have been trouble down in Tampa. Surprise team in the Big East in my opinion. The Bearcats are road tested we beat Georgetown, UConn and Pittsburgh on the road All three were ranked at the time, Georgetown still is. Only bad showing on the road we had was against Marquette so I think as long as we play under control limit turnovers we should be able to handle playing in Tampa on Saturday.

3. What kind of temp do the Bearcats run on offense and how will that factor against USF's slow down style they like to run?

The bearcats like to speed teams up. Most of the game we play with four guards and one big. We can't turn the ball over and we have to create turnovers so we can get USF to play our up and down style of play.

4. Are you looking forward to watch the Cashmere Wright vs. Anthony Collins matchup at point guard?

I'm definitely ready to watch the Collins/ Wright matchup. Two Legit points guard who make their teams go. 

5.  Final score prediction?

76-67 Bearcats, it will be a tough game but I think we will be able to steal a road victory.

Once again, thanks to Jesse for answering the questions, although I think he is a bit off in his final score prediction.