St. John's at Connecticut

We think the odds-makers are playing on this UCONN team off of the illusion of public perception, and a couple National Championships. This recruiting class was supposed to be the next wave, but has frustrated Coach Calhoun in many ways. This group is 7-22 ATS last 29, so certainly the "overrated" label  is not out of the question. The Huskies have allowed opposing players to reach career highs in points scored in each of the last three games. There is no stopper on the floor, and although they provide balance with five double-digit scorers, they are missing the scorer that can take over a game (which they have had in the past). The #6 rating in FG percentage allowed is a bit misleading because they block a lot of shots, but the open looks abound against this defense, and they just have not provided the 40 minute consistency to justify a double-digit spread. St. John's is playing hard, especially on the defensive end where it matters the most on the road, allowing just 40%. The Johnies have stayed to within single digits in all but one game, and that was at 13-1 Miami. They have a similar problem as Connecticut as they get double-digit scoring from five players, but have no real knockout scorer. There is enough talent and commitment here to keep this one close, as the Huskies keep proving that the odds-makers have them confused with their teams of the past.