Monday night brings a massive early-season college basketball showdown: the 2-0 Indiana Hoosiers are going head-to-head with the 2-0 Syracuse Orange at Gainbridge Fieldhouse at 6:30 p.m. ET. This isn’t just another game, it’s Indiana’s first real test away from home, and the oddsmakers have the Hoosiers favored by 5.5 points. That line feels a little tight given Syracuse’s history against them, doesn’t it?
Indiana’s Bench Power and Perimeter Attack Is For Real
Look, Indiana’s 2-0 record isn’t just for show. They’ve dominated, taking down Eastern Illinois 91-57 and then Bellarmine 92-69. Coach Darian DeVries has this squad pushing the pace, and it’s paying off big time. Their scoring isn’t relying on one guy, either. Darren Harris dropped 23 points against Bellarmine, hitting five 3-pointers, and Bryce Lindsay chipped in 15. Aiden Sherrell added 12 points in that game, and Sam Alexis matched that with 12 of his own. Don’t sleep on freshman Trevor Manhertz either, he’s averaging 10 points through two games and is already 4-of-8 from deep. This team has some serious perimeter depth, enough to force Syracuse to defend beyond its starting five. The Hoosiers’ bench is a machine, averaging a wild 43 points through two games. The only question mark is Markus Burton, who went from 19 points against Eastern Illinois to just two points on 0-of-7 shooting against Bellarmine. Which Burton shows up tonight?
Syracuse’s Glass Cleaners and Coaching New Blood
The Orange, also 2-0, are playing under first-year coach Gerry McNamara, who knows a thing or two about winning a national championship, having done it as a player in 2003. Syracuse rolled over New Haven 74-58 and then absolutely steamrolled Central Connecticut 102-49. Gavin Doty is a beast, averaging 16 points and nine rebounds, and Kiyan Anthony is right there with him at 15.5 points per contest. But the real story for Syracuse is their work on the glass. Sadiq White Jr. hauled in 10 rebounds in *both* games, and Doty’s nine boards means these guys can absolutely disrupt Indiana’s offense. This rebounding advantage is the key matchup here, going against Indiana’s strong perimeter game. And get this: Syracuse has won their last six meetings with Indiana, including a double-overtime thriller back in 2021. This isn’t just another game for them, it’s a chance to keep that dominance alive.
The over/under for total points is 146.5, with Indiana’s team over/under at 77.5 and Syracuse’s at 71.5. With the Orange’s history against the Hoosiers and their rebounding advantage, Syracuse could easily cover that 5.5 point spread. This is going to be a battle, and for my money, Syracuse’s ability to clean the glass could make all the difference. Get ready for some Monday night fireworks!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
Leave a Reply