Big Thursday

Written for your enjoyment by: Raff



The Mount starts its final homestand of the season. As of right now, it's a four-game homestand. But with four wins the Mounties are guaranteed a first round NEC playoff game, so this could be the start of a five-game homestand for the Mount - or with some help - maybe more.

Meanwhile down the road in the nation's capital, Syracuse looks to bounce back from Sunday's loss in a rivalry game with Georgetown. You'll recall the Orange embarrassed the Hoyas in the Dome a few weeks ago.

Expect the Mount to be pushed by a boisterous home crowd. It's one of the things I never understand. The crowds always turn out - and are at their loudest - for games on TV. The Mount has called for a WhiteOut - Everybody wants to be a Winnipeg Jet anymore - and they are looking to build on the current six-game winning streak.

An efficient offense during that six-game stretch that has been keyed by the fine shooting of Will Holland has been the difference. Central Connecticut always brings a good defense and an offense that likes to operate in the halfcourt set. The Mount defense which continues to play at a high level should keep the Devils down and the Mount should pull away to a controlling victory. I'll say 68-54.

Down in DC - I expect the Orange to shoot the ball much better than they did on Sunday. But I also expect Georgetown to play a lot better than it did the last time these two got together. Andy Rautins may be the key for the Orange - if Wes Johnson isn't 100% - and maybe he isn't right now somebody has to step up. The other real option is Kris Joseph - who has played a larger role as the season has progressed.

Ultimately, I think Syracuse reeling from the loss on Sunday will come out focused and play a good solid 40 minutes. If that happens it will be too much for the Hoyas and the Orange will complete the season sweep with a 74-68 victory at the Phone Booth.