Northeastern (16-8, 11-3) at George Mason (16-8, 9-5)George Mason welcomes first place Northeastern to the Patriot Center for Homecoming. Usually the idea is to schedule an easier team on Homecoming but Mason apparently didn't get that memo. With that being said the atmosphere is already jacked up because of Homecoming and it will be even more so with a first place team facing Mason.
Mason comes into this game with zero momentum. They have dropped five in a row on the road, including an embarrassing loss last night at Delaware. The Patriots hallmark, defense, has been spotty at best lately, while the usual problem of terrible free throw shooting has been rearing its ugly head.
Luckily for Mason, Northeastern comes into this game strugg a ling a bit too. They have lost 2 of 3, including a very surprising loss at William and Mary last week. Mason is 11-0 at home, but Northeastern has proven that they can win at tough venues, as they have wins at Providence, Indiana and VCU this season.
The Huskies are led by G-F Matt Janning, who torched the Patriots in the first meeting between these teams, which Northeastern won 58-57. The key for Mason, much like it was last night against Delaware is try to limit the three point opportunities. Delaware had no inside presence, yet constantly got open looks from 3 point land, leading them to victory. The leading rebounder on Northeastern is G Chaisson Allen, and he averages just 5 rebounds a game.
Monroe has the opportunity to have a big game like he did last night, Mason will also need more consistent performances from John Vaughan and Cam Long. It would also be nice if Ryan Pearson could get more than 6 minutes playing time in this game.
Last night's loss really disgusted me and I am growing tired of picking Mason to win and then just watch them fall on their faces. Mason is a different team at home but I am hoping a reverse jinx can apply with my pick.
Prediction: Northeastern 65, George Mason 60
No comments:
Post a Comment