As the college basketball season enters its final stretch, the margin for error is thinner than ever, and for teams like Seton Hall, every game is a high-stakes affair. The Pirates, currently on the wrong side of the tournament bubble with a NET ranking of 56, are in dire need of a win to stop the bleeding from a three-game losing streak. Their opponent, Marquette, may not be a tournament contender, but they're still a formidable foe, especially considering the Golden Eagles' recent form has been a mixed bag, with a win sandwiched between two losses.
The CHD Scout prediction favors Seton Hall by a comfortable 10.2 points, with an 82.2% win probability, but Marquette's ability to pull off upsets can't be discounted. The Golden Eagles have struggled mightily against top-tier opponents, boasting a dismal 0-7 record in Quad 1 games, but they've shown flashes of brilliance in other matchups. Seton Hall, on the other hand, has been decent in Quad 2 games, with a 4-4 record, but their 1-2 mark in Quad 1 contests is a concern. This game, classified as a Quad 1 opportunity for Marquette and a Quad 3 game for Seton Hall, could be a season-defining moment for both teams.
CHD Scout Prediction
Marquette
66
Seton Hall
78
The Pirates' recent struggles can be attributed to their inability to close out games, and their tournament context makes every possession count. A win would not only snap their losing streak but also bolster their tournament resume, which currently includes a lackluster 1-2 record in Quad 1 games. Marquette, meanwhile, is looking to build some momentum and pick up a quality win to salvage their season. Although they're not in the tournament conversation, a victory over Seton Hall would be a significant upset and a much-needed confidence boost.
Given the CHD Scout prediction and the Pirates' desperation to get back on track, I'm predicting a Seton Hall win by around 12 points. The Pirates' home-court advantage at the Prudential Center, combined with their superior NET ranking and the urgency of their tournament situation, should be enough to propel them past a Marquette team that's still searching for consistency. Seton Hall's offense, which has been stagnant of late, should find its rhythm against a Golden Eagles defense that's been vulnerable at times, leading to a much-needed victory for the Pirates.