It’s the best day of the week. It’s what makes a Tuesday feel like a Saturday. It’s game day! The Buffalo Bulls, coming off another double digit win against the Miami(OH) Redhawks, are back in alumni to take on the Kent State Golden Flashes. Buffalo is currently coming in on a season long six game winning streak, while the Flashes are coming off arguably their super bowl, after ending Akron’s 30 game home winning streak.
So what should be expected in today’s game. First, expect the battle of the boards to be tough, as both KSU and UB are tied for 6th in the nation in rebounds. The Bulls will have their hands full with keeping Jimmy Hall off the glass, and from scoring. That all being said, I don’t think anyone is playing any better than the Bulls at the moment. If all goes well, UB will continue it’s hot streak against KSU, which is currently at seven games. Let’s take a look at what to expect tonight.
What to Watch For
Rebounding, Rebounding, Rebounding
Did I stress this enough? Games are won and lost on the boards. Buffalo has done a great job on this winning streak of attacking loose balls and giving full effort on the boards. Kent is arguably the only team that can keep up with UB in that regard. If the Bulls can limit them to one and done shots, I expect to see the winning streak extended.
Can everyone keep their heads
Last time we played KSU, Willie Conner was ejected for throwing a punch towards Jimmy Hall. It was very out of character for Conner, and since then he has had no issues. I don’t think it will be a problem, but we are in a very emotional part of the season. Nobody can afford to loose their minds. Nobody can afford to be tempted by Jimmy Hall. He will try and get under your skin. The key is to not let him.
Can the Bulls continue their dominating defense
Dontay Caruthers, CJ Massinburg and Willie Conner. You all know those names. You all know that there is a case out there that they are the best defending trio in the MAC by far. Buffalo has done a lot of small things well on this current hot streak, and defense is one of them. KSU does not have the strongest guards, and if Caruthers and Massinburg can bother them early, I expect a lot of turnovers. UB loves to run, and that all starts with pressure up top.
Final Thoughts
This feels like a huge game, that can be overlooked. The Bulls have a big rematch with Akron on Friday that is being nationally televised. They can’t afford to look past Kent State. If they do, we may be in for a very tough Wednesday. However, if they’re focused, I think we could roll Kent like two years ago. I haven’t had this much confidence in the Bulls this season, but I’m now in the mode where I expect to win again. KSU isn’t a team to take lightly, but neither is Buffalo. Also final reminder, the food drive is still happening. So get on out and donate for a good cause!