BYU Faces Tough Test in Cincinnati

0:00On March 3rd, BYU heads to Cincinnati on Tuesday night, trying to snap a rough stretch after dropping five of their last six games. The Cougar sit at 23rd in Kenpom rankings, with a 52% shot at victory, according to the analytic site, projecting a close one. At 76-75, ESPN's BPI is a bit more optimistic, giving BYU 56% odds against the bearcats. Cincinnati has been on fire lately, ranking 44th overall in Kenpom with the 13th best adjusted defensive efficiency in the country. They've lit it up from beyond the arc during their hot streak, making them tough to handle. BYU boasts the 10th ranked adjusted offense, but has slipped to 51st on defense, especially struggling to protect a 3-point line over the past month. Fans and analysts see this as BYU's toughest row test left, coming off a slide that dropped their defense from top 15 to around 50th. The Cougars have 20 wins already, and beating Cincinnati would keep their momentum alive, heading into the final regular season games.

1:04Looking ahead, Kenpom gives BYU 54% to beat Texas Tech at home next. They have a 78% chance to hit 21 wins and 28% for 22, which could lock in a solid NCAA tournament spot. A win here helps BYU hold on to that 60 projection, but driving both final games carries a 22% risk that could jeopardize there. Postseason hopes.