Xavier at Cincinnati

Rivalry games often mean intense defense and here we have the annual Crosstown Shootout between two strong defensive teams. Xavier has won four in a row and has allowed 61, 63 and 55 points the last three games, part of a 5-0 run UNDER the total. But that win streak followed a three-game skid, losing twice as a favorite. The Musketeers are on a 3-7-2 spread run, including 3-8 ATS after a victory. Xavier is also 8-2 UNDER the total on the road and faces a powerhouse Cincinnati defense for Mark Cronin that is fifth in the nation in points allowed (57.4 pg). Cincinnati has won eight in a row while covering five of six. Cincinnati is also 59-25 UNDER the total in non-conference games, plus 48-23 UNDER against the Big East. The favorite is 8-2 ATS when these rivals clash, as well as 6-2 UNDER the total at Cincinnati, so back home court in a defensive duel. Play Cincinnati and the UNDER.