SMU at East Carolina

Southern Methodist is dealing with depth issues but is having a winning season leaning on a strong defense. The Mustangs are third in the American and eighth nationally in scoring defense at 63.1. SMU has held 20 of 27 opponents under 70 points. The Mustangs are second in the AAC in three-point shooting (.387), turnover margin (2.6), steals (7.5) and turnovers forced (14.2). They match up well with an East Carolina squad with an interim coach in Michael Perry, a losing home record, and little defense. The Pirates are struggling on the defensive end allowing an average of 83.1 points over the last seven games. The SMU Mustangs won the first meeting 86-61 in January as all five starters reached double-digits in the scoring column. SMU shot 62 percent from the floor as a team and will get the season sweep with ease. Lay the points and back Southern Methodist.