Villanova Runs Syracuse Out of Philly

This game was over early, with Villanova blowing Syracuse out of the water in the first 10 minutes. Villanova's defense completely disrupted the Orange, who could only make one basket in that span. By the time Syracuse started getting on track, they were down by 21. Villanova never let Syracuse get close than 10 points as the Wildcats coasted to a 102-85 win.

Dante Cunningham was unstoppable for Villanova. Not only did he match his career high in points with 31, but he forced two of Syracuse's big men to foul out failing to stop him. It also did not help that Syracuse had their entire defense shredded as Villanova shot 55 percent in the game.

Villanova showed up ready to give their home crowd reason to explode. Syracuse, on the other hand, looked like a team that was not ready for the game. The offense had no flow, and they could not handle Villanova's pressing defense. The Orange turned the ball over a stunning 13 times in just the first half.

Syracuse has now dropped four straight road games in the Big East. They have also lost five of seven in the meat of the conference. While they can take solace in that they have lost to good teams, it also has shown that Syracuse is not in the same class as the top teams.

Villanova, on the other hand, have been getting better as the season continues. Their offense continues to improve with Cunningham inside and their strong guard play on the perimeter and attacking the basket.