Houston vs. Purdue: Can the Boilers take down Kelvin Sampson's top-seeded Cougars?
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One reason I picked Houston to win the national championship back in October is its ability to make shots from all three guard spots. The Cougars are the best 3-point shooting team and the best defensive team in the country.
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Something to watch is rebounding margins. Houston is one of the best offensive rebounding teams (11th nationally) and overwhelms teams with second-chance points. Purdue is 18-2 when grabbing 22 defensive rebounds or more but has only done it nine times this season. Houston is 20-1 when allowing fewer than 20 defensive rebounds.
In the past, teams have given the Cougars trouble in the pick-and-roll with short rolls, pops to the 3-point line or quick slips. Trey Kaufman-Renn has only shot 51 3s in his three-year career, but he is almost automatic around the rim with floaters, hooks and layups.
All-American point guard Braden Smith hasn't faced a defense this physical all season, but his toughness and poise can help the Boilermakers try to solve this feisty defense.
The foul count could also play a big role. Houston is physical and will look to impose its will. If one of Houston's guards gets into foul trouble, though, the game could shift.
Betting/Odds links in this article are provided by partners of The Athletic. Restrictions may apply. The Athletic maintains full editorial independence. Partners have no control over or input into the reporting or editing process and do not review stories before publication.
(Photo by Kirby Lee / Imagn Images)
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