This seems like another buy low spot for Villanova that needs wins to keep the tournament hopes alive. Eric Dixon should be able to compete with Ryan Kalkbrenner downlow. The Blue Jays have covered their last seven games and Villanova has failed to do so in their last five. The Wildcats still lead the country in percentage from beyond the arc and the experience guards from Creighton defend the perimeter well. But, there’s more desperation for the Wildcats at this time and with the short line, Villanova is the more consistent team from the line.

Consider the recent trajectory of these sides, with the Bluejays on a six-game uptick and the Wildcats losing four of five. Also consider the first meeting at Omaha on December 21 when Creighton won by 7 despite the best efforts of the Cats' powerhouse 6-8. 265-lb. bruiser Eric Dixon (24.6 ppg), who scored 27. The Bluejays have been winning (at home and on the road) because they cause real matchup issues with 7-2 Ryan Kalkbrenner (18.3 ppg) on the blocks and a squadron of bombers led by ex-Utah State G Steven Ainsworth (16.5 ppg; 37% triples). Creighton also doesn't foul much, as its mere 10.4 whistles pg is a runaway national leader, and foes just don't get to the FT line that often. Play Creighton