Butler vs. Xavier

Butler is fourth-worst in the Big East in scoring and ninth in shooting but focuses on defense, fourth in points allowed (65.4 ppg). They will lean on defense again as Butler is shorthanded with Bo Hodges (calf injury) and Bryce Nze (ankle) questionable, while Aaron Thompson will miss the rest of the season with a recent shoulder injury. Butler is 73-43 UNDER the total away from home versus teams with winning percentages between 60-80%. Xavier is also shorthanded, losing five of seven while dealing with COVID-19 concerns. They're 18-6 UNDER the total against opponents that attempt 18 or fewer free throws per contest. Xavier topped Butler last month 63-51 and this shapes up as another defensive duel. Play Butler/Xavier UNDER the total.