Southern Jaguars vs. Texas A&M Aggies Pick & Prediction NOVEMBER 20th 2024

Preview and Prediction

Texas A&M, ranked No. 23, has bounced back from their initial defeat against UCF and is now on a three-game winning streak. They will be hosting Southern on Wednesday night in College Station, Texas.

The Aggies (3-1) put their best foot forward in their most recent game, a 78-64 victory over then-No. 21 Ohio State at home on Friday. Wade Taylor IV and Manny Obaseki both contributed 15 points, but it was the team's strong defense and assertiveness that ultimately made the difference.

Texas A&M took control early on with a 12-3 run and held Ohio State to a mere 21.9% shooting in the first half and 33.9% for the entire game. They also outscored their opponents by 16 points from the free-throw line, with the Aggies taking 40 free throws compared to Ohio State's 22.

According to Texas A&M coach Buzz Williams, the team made some key adjustments in terms of their opponents' personnel and talent, resulting in a strong defensive performance. Williams also praised the team's six consecutive stops in the first half and their overall performance, stating that it was their best 20 minutes of the season so far.

Zhuric Phelps and Henry Coleman III also had notable performances, scoring 14 and 12 points respectively. The Aggies continue to showcase a well-rounded offensive attack and tough defense, despite some critics labeling their style of play as "ugly." In fact, the team's bench players accounted for 40 of their 78 points against Ohio State.

When asked about the team's winning style, Taylor stated that they are not concerned with what others think and are focused on playing for each other. He also emphasized the team's depth and veteran players who are ready to step up and make plays.

However, the road ahead will not be easy for the Aggies as their next five games will be against Power Four teams, including Oregon and No. 14 Creighton in the Players Era Festival in Las Vegas.

Southern (1-3) will be coming into the Brazos Valley after a dominant 131-42 victory over Ecclesia College on Saturday. Puoch Dobuol and Jayce Depron led the way with 16 points each, while eight other Jaguars players scored in double figures. Their opponent, a team from the National Christian College Athletic Association, was no match for Southern's strong defense, which resulted in 26 steals and 59 points off turnovers.

According to Southern coach Kevin Johnson, their team's defensive strategy is to constantly pressure their opponents. He also emphasized the importance of working on their defensive skills in every game.

The win against Ecclesia came after three consecutive losses against South Dakota, Iowa, and East Texas A&M.

PREDICTION

Southern Jaguars

Texas A&M Aggies