There’s no doubt that Xavier is in better current form than the Friars. This is only the second time this season that Xavier has been an away favorite, winning by 14 at DePaul. Providence has struggled mightily offensively of late, failing to score above 65 points in their last two games. But, there’s something about the Friars as home underdogs as their defense plays much better holding opponents to 65 points per game while shooting 54.5% effectively. They’ve lost three straight but have covered seven of the last nine meetings in this series.

Xavier sophomore Dailyn Swain had scored in double figures in five straight games until Sunday's 80-68 loss at Villanova. Swain was dealing with a head cold and scored just four points in 15 minutes, less than half his normal workload. Swain's return to health is just one reason why I bet the Musketeers to cover the small number at Providence. The Friars have lost three straight and are dealing with multiple injuries. Xavier, having beaten UConn and Marquette, has NCAA Tournament aspirations and cannot afford to drop this one.