Syracuse men’s basketball predictions vs Houston

The Syracuse Orange (4-0) open up the Players Era Festival with a game against #2 Houston Cougars (5-0). The game tips at 6:00 on TNT/MAX and here’s what we’re predicting in this one.

Kevin: Houston 73, Syracuse 62

I don’t know exactly what to expect on Monday, but I don’t think it’s a good matchup for the Orange at all. Houston is tough and skilled and I think it’s a success if Syracuse can hang with them for 30-35 minutes. This is a game where the Orange would need to make 3s and free throws and so far this season, nothing suggests those are going to be strong points. Sadiq White being able to stay out of foul trouble might be a big factor as his ability to defend is needed against the Cougars.

Sam: Houston 71, Syracuse 55

The Cougars suck the life out of teams. They’re maniacs on the glass, they contest every shot, they make it impossible for you to breathe. Syracuse hasn’t seen high-major athletes yet, and Houston is maybe the most difficult test in the country in terms of that. The good news is that if you can at least fight against Houston, the next game is usually a lot easier for having gone through it.

Szuba: Houston 68, Syracuse 48

This Houston defense is going to be problematic for Syracuse. Although Syracuse has plenty of scorers on its roster, the Cougs have the No. 1 defense in the country; Houston holds opponents to under 40% shooting and forces opponents into turnovers on almost 25% of their possessions. Rebounding woes will show in this game, especially if Donnie Freeman can’t go. Syracuse’s guard play will be tested by Milos Uzan and Emanual Sharpe. That’s not to mention the reigning Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year in Joseph Tugler – his toughness and 7-foot-6 wingspan make him a nightmare on defense. Cougs by 20.

Dom: Houston 72, Syracuse 64

I’m predicting a closer game than I even initially thought. Orange glasses aside, I’ll predict Syracuse will come out with the effort and energy to keep it close, and I’ll also say both offenses will look ugly for most of the game before Houston’s extra looks off the glass and suffocating defense get the best of the Orange. The Cougars are a clear favorite and while I don’t expect an upset, this is a good game to feel what it’s like playing a caliber of opponent like Houston and use that to take advantage of the rest of the opportunities that await in Vegas.

Max: Houston 73, Syracuse 56

While this is a terrific early-season test, I think we’ll see something similar to the 2023 Maui Invitational. The Cougars hold the statistical advantage in nearly every category except three-point shooting, and should win this one comfortably. That said, hot shooting from deep could keep the Orange afloat for the first half, but it’ll take a herculean effort from William Kyle and Donnie Freeman on the glass to open the tournament with a win.

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Now it’s your turn, what’s your prediction for tonight’s game?