Jim Feist

The DePaul Blue Demons are set to face the St. John's Red Storm on Tuesday at Carnesecca Arena in Queens, New York. This Big East matchup features two teams with identical 8-2 records, each aiming to establish early dominance in conference play. DePaul Blue Demons (8-2, 0-1 Big East) began the season with a 7-0 run but encountered setbacks with consecutive losses to Texas Tech and Providence. They rebounded with a convincing 91-72 victory over Wichita State, highlighted by Jacob Meyer's 23-point performance. The Blue Demons boast a potent offense, averaging 83.2 points per game, ranking them 45th nationall . Their effective field goal percentage stands at 40.4%, placing them 13th in Division I. Notably, they excel from beyond the arc, shooting 40.4% from three-point range, with seven rotation players hitting at least 35%. St. John's Red Storm (8-2, 0-0 Big East) are riding a three-game winning streak, including a 99-77 triumph over Bryant. Their offense has been prolific, particularly in the second half of games, where they've executed decisive runs to secure victories. Under Coach Rick Pitino, St. John's has improved its three-point shooting, averaging 12 made threes per game in recent contests, a notable increase from earlier in the season. DePaul's proficiency from beyond the arc will challenge St. John's perimeter defense, which has shown vulnerabilities. This game presents a compelling clash between DePaul's high-powered offense and St. John's dynamic playmaking. I'm going to take Depaul in this contest as I expect their 3-point shooting to keep them close. Play Depaul

The Drake Bulldogs (9-0) are set to face the Kansas State Wildcats (7-2) on Tuesday at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri. Drake has maintained an unblemished record, showcasing their prowess with a recent 66-60 victory over Valparaiso on December 5. The Bulldogs average 73.1 points per game, with a field goal percentage of 48.25%, ranking 63rd nationally. Drake's defense has been formidable, allowing only 57.8 points per game, placing them 7th in the nation. The Wildcats have demonstrated resilience, with notable victories and a recent win over Arkansas-Pine Bluff. Kansas State averages 80.4 points per game, indicating a potent offense. The Wildcats allow an average of 69.3 points per game, suggesting areas for improvement on defense. Hard to pass up on a undefeated Drake team getting a point or two here on Tuesday. I'll take the visitors. Play Drake.

The Florida Gators (10-0) are set to face the North Carolina Tar Heels (6-4) on Tuesday at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Gators have maintained an unblemished record, showcasing their prowess with a recent 83-66 victory over Arizona State. Florida's offense is spearheaded by Walter Clayton Jr., who leads the team in scoring. The Gators have demonstrated a robust defense, effectively limiting their opponents' scoring opportunities. The Tar Heels have rebounded from earlier setbacks, securing consecutive wins, including a decisive 93-67 triumph over La Salle. North Carolina boasts a potent offense, averaging 86.8 points per game, with RJ Davis contributing significantly with an average of 17.6 points and 4.3 assists per game. The Tar Heels have faced challenges defensively, allowing an average of 78.7 points per game, indicating potential vulnerabilities against high-scoring teams. Florida Stateet just too tough for this NCU squad. Laying just 3.5 seems like a bargain. Play Florida.

 The Drexel Dragons (7-4) are set to face the Howard Bison (5-6) on Tuesday at Burr Gymnasium in Washington, D.C. Drexel is coming off a 77-70 win over Albany on Saturday. The Dragons average 73.7 points per game, shooting 47.3% from the field and 37.9% from beyond the arc. They allow 65.8 points per game, holding opponents to 40.4% shooting. Howard secured an 88-83 victory over UNC Wilmington on Saturday. The Bison average 78.7 points per game, shooting 47.2% from the field and 41.0% from three-point range. Howard allows 77.4 points per game, with opponents shooting 46.0%. Both teams favor an up-tempo style, with Howard averaging 78.7 points per game and Drexel averaging 73.7 points per game. I look for Drexel to come out on top here on Tuesday. I'll lay the short price on the road.