Villanova has recovered from a rough start to the season but this will be a tough matchup for them. Xavier's size, length and rebounding prowess will pose problems for a team that hasn't shot well this season and relies upon not giving away possessions to score.

Xavier played Villanova once already, losing on the road Dec. 21 by a score of 71-58. Xavier shot just 40.8 percent from the field and the team's second-leading scorer, Jack Nunge (12.1 PPG), scored just six points. The Musketeers are a different team at home with a 9-0 record and a 7-2 record ATS. Back Xavier to cover the small number in a Big East revenge game.

Xavier is 9-0 at home (7-2 ATS), with a covering margin of 8.8 points in those nine games. The Musketeers have had this game circled since Dec. 21 when they led Villanova well into the second half of a 71-58 loss. Travis Steele's team tuned up with a sharp performance at Butler last Friday, committing just six turnovers. The Wildcats are slightly better on a neutral floor, but look for the Cintas Center crowd to help Xavier pull through.