As the college basketball season hits its midpoint, the importance of resume-building wins cannot be overstated, especially for teams teetering on the NCAA Tournament bubble. One such team, Washington, finds itself in a precarious position, sitting at 10-8 overall and 2-5 in conference play, with a NET ranking of 60. A Quad 1 win would be a monumental boost to their tournament chances, but it won't come easily, as they face off against the undefeated Nebraska Cornhuskers.
Nebraska, boasting a flawless 18-0 record and a NET ranking of 7, is firmly entrenched on the top-16 seed line. Their impressive quad record, which includes a 5-0 mark in Quad 1 games, is a reflection of their ability to rise to the occasion against tough opponents. The Cornhuskers are riding a three-game win streak, and their home crowd at Pinnacle Bank Arena will undoubtedly provide a significant advantage. According to the CHD Scout prediction, Nebraska is expected to emerge victorious, with a predicted margin of 9.8 points and an 81.4% win probability.
CHD Scout Prediction
Washington
69
Nebraska
80
For Washington, this game represents a golden opportunity to bolster their tournament resume. A win would not only be a significant upset but also a much-needed Quad 1 victory, which would greatly enhance their chances of sneaking into the Big Dance. However, the Huskies must regroup after a tumultuous stretch, having lost two of their last three games. Unfortunately, there's no notable player momentum to speak of, which means they'll need to rely on a collective effort to take down the high-flying Cornhuskers.
Given the disparity in talent and momentum, it's difficult to envision an upset. Nebraska's stifling defense and balanced offense should prove too much for Washington to handle. I predict Nebraska will win this matchup, 80-69, behind a strong team performance and the energy of their home crowd. The Cornhuskers' ability to dominate on their home floor, combined with Washington's struggles in Quad 1 games, makes it a tall order for the Huskies to pull off the upset.