I am wrong very often. People exposing me for my bad takes really does not phase me. But when I nail a prediction on the head, I’m going to do some celebrating. On Thursday, I laid out the reasons why BYU would knock off the Zags. The beauty of the upset was that each and every aspect of BYU’s game was in full effect on Saturday night and really illustrated the type of team the Cougars can be in March. BYU would roll to a 91-78 victory, snapping the 40 game WCC win streak held by Gonzaga.
#Analytics
“As the #analytics say, 3-pointers are worth more than 2-pointers. BYU should shoot better than the 30% they went in the last meeting.” Nailed it. Yes, I’m quoting myself. BYU was much improved behind the line this time around, going 11-27 (40.7%). That jump in offensive production was not replicated by the Bulldogs. They shot a measly 5-25 (20%) from downtown. That advantage for BYU helped them pull away by double-digits late.
The Yoeli Childs Effect
Childs was, in a word, spectacular. The senior finished his Senior Night with 28 points and 10 rebounds, shooting 12-19 from the floor. “The biggest reason why I say to throw out that game is that BYU did not have Childs, who was injured. His impact will be felt on Saturday night inside what should be an electric Marriott Center.” BOOM. I’m on fire.
BYU’s Defense is Sneaky Good
It’s not the best defense in the country, nor even one that comes to mind when discussing great defenses. However, the Cougars defense did a great job containing one of the best offenses in college basketball on Saturday night. They forced 14 turnovers and tallied 10 steals. There was a four possession stretch where TJ Haws drew two charges and then ripped away two steals. That kind of energy and efficiency is needed in March.
Oh, and by the way. The Marriott Center was ELECTRIC.
Thank you for coming to my victory lap. Until next time, ladies and gentlemen.