Keys, prediction as Xavier seeks 3-0 start vs. Detroit Mercy

Xavier’s first two games of the season weren’t expected to provide much drama. The Musketeers have made sure of that.

Following a 45-point season-opening win over Mount St. Mary’s, Xavier shook off a stagnant start and pulled away from Eastern Michigan for a 76-53 victory and the program’s 19th consecutive 2-0 start.

Advertisement

Two games in, Xavier’s depth has continued to show itself and so has the Musketeers’ ability to take care of business against lesser competition.

Blowouts against buy-game opponents aren’t necessarily a measure of how good a team is, but they are a measure of whether a team is doing what it’s supposed to do.

Xavier has checked that box over two games and will look to do the same when they finish a three-game homestand against Detroit Mercy on Tuesday, Nov. 10.

More: Xavier University announces Richard Pitino bobblehead giveaway

More: Xavier rides defense to win over Eastern Michigan, 2-0 start

Advertisement

More: Richard Pitino provides injury updates on Appelhans, Elson

Xavier Musketeers guard Chance Westry (11) reacts after Xavier Musketeers forward Gabriel Pozzato (0) hits a layup in the second half of a NCAA men’s basketball game between the Xavier Musketeers and Eastern Michigan Eagles, Friday, Nov. 6, 2026, at Cintas Center in Cincinnati. Musketeers won 76-53.

1. Xavier’s defensive intensity can win a lot of games

Even the most high-flying offenses will have off nights, but intensity and effort on defense is something that can show up on a nightly basis. While Xavier’s offense was stuck in mud against Eastern Michigan, the Musketeers’ defense was at its best in holding the underdog Eagles without a bucket for nearly 11 minutes.

Xavier’s defense has the ability to suffocate opponents with its length and athleticism. They’ll try to do that on Tuesday against a Detroit Mercy offense that managed just 32 points in its season opener.

Advertisement

2. Get to the free-throw line and make it count

Xavier has won two games by a combined 68 points. The gap…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/keys-prediction-xavier-seeks-3-161943438.html

Author :

Publish date : 2026-11-09 16:19:00

Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.