Buffalo Bulls Men’s Basketball Game Preview: Western Michigan Broncos

The Buffalo Bulls head out to Kalamazoo, Michigan tonight as they look to extend their perfect MAC record against the Western Michigan Broncos. UB is currently 5-0 in the MAC and winning games by an AVERAGE of 18 points a game. However, they’re in for another test tonight as the Broncos were the preseason favorite out of the MAC West. The Broncos are lead by MAC POTY candidate Thomas Wilder who is good a scorer as anyone in the MAC. However, outside of Wilder, the team has struggled this year to get anything going, as they’re just 3-2 in MAC play.

As for the Bulls, everyone knows the story of how good this team is on offense and the second half. The Bulls are most likely going to be without Dontay Caruthers again, who was held out of last game after being reported his return was coming. Caruthers did travel with the team however, so maybe you’ll see him in action tonight. Outside of him, the Bulls are still led by CJ Massinburg who has just been a solid all around player this year, with scoring and rebounding. The Massinburg vs. Wilder match up is one that deserves a lot of attention tonight. Let’s take a look at what else you should be looking at tonight.

What To Watch For

Davonta Jordan’s Defense

Jordan has had a superb year on defense this season, and coach Nate Oats has already said he is going to advocate for him to win DPOY. Jordan has had an up and down season on offense, but his defense has remained solid, and he will have to be locked in again when he squares off against Wilder. If Wilder isn’t scoring, the Bulls have a very good chance to win this game.

Wes Clark’s Health

I really love watching Clark play, but if you notice he seems to have an injury scare every game. Recently, it’s been his shoulder, which he is reportedly playing on just 50%. Clark can’t afford to be injured with such limited playing time left, so it is crucial that he starts to heal up and continues to dominate, through sharing and scoring the ball.

Nick Perkins

Perkins has been an absolute beast recently, putting up the best numbers of his career. He’s finally the big tough guy in the MAC and more athletic than past years versions. WMU does have some size inside, but if Perkins uses his strength and positioning well like he has been, I look for another huge game for the big man.

Final Thoughts

This is a match up that was thought very highly off preseason, enough that it is on ESPNU. The Bulls need to remain focused in order to win this tough road game, and I think they have it in them. If they come in with the focus they had against Ball State, I think they will put on a strong display for the national TV audience. WMU is another team that plays slow so look for the Bulls to try and play fast and physical and tire WMU out. The Bulls are very good at this concept and if they implement it, I think you’ll see 6-0 tonight. Enjoy the game everyone and as always, go Bulls!