Score Predictions for West Virginia vs. UCF

We make our picks for the Mountaineers' matchup against the Knights

The West Virginia Mountaineers host the UCF Knights Tuesday night, with tip-off set for 7:00 p.m. and the action will broadcast on ESPNU.

Schuyler Callihan: West Virginia 74, UCF 71.

Am I really going to side with the Mountaineers? I guess so. UCF has had its fair share of struggles this year as well, especially since these two last played. The Knights are 1-5 since beating WVU in Orlando and are winless in three roadtrips. 

West Virginia was bothered by UCF's physicality and almost looked surprised by it last month. With Jesse Edwards in the lineup this time around, they'll stand a much better chance on the boards and in the paint against Ibrahima Diallo who went for 14 points, 12 rebounds, and four blocks in the first game. 

The biggest factor in this game, however, will be West Virginia's ability to take care of the basketball. They've not just thrown it around a bunch lately, but they are committing turnovers that turn into points. UCF scored 26 fastbreak points last month against the Mountaineers and if they're able to cut that number in half, I like their chances.

Christopher Hall: West Virginia 69, UCF 68.

West Virginia and UCF are both 1-5 since the two met in Orlando nearly a month ago. The Knights captured a 72-59 win over the Mountaineers, showing their dominance in the paint. UCF led by double digits throughout most of the game and built a 20-point advantage in the second half. 

The Mountaineers were without center Jesse Edwards and subsequently were pounded on the boards 45-34. Having Edwards back for the return game should clear up the issues underneath if he can stay out of foul trouble. 

However, the Mountaineers have committed 10-plus first half turnovers in the last three games, and the defense continues to be one of, if not the worst in the Big 12. 

The Knights have struggled offensively but have one of the best defenses in the league. 

Despite all of West Virginia flaws, I think the Mountaineers can avenge the earlier season loss to the Knights. They shouldn't feel the pressure to score if they are formidable on defense and having Jesse in the lineup this time around should make a big impact. West Virginia ends its four-game losing streak with a 69-68 win. 

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