Villanova vs DePaul Picks and Prediction – 2/6/2025

Villanova enters this matchup with a 12-10 record and a 5-6 mark in the Big East after a tough 62-60 loss to Creighton. The Wildcats have struggled, dropping four of the last five games, including losses to Marquette and Georgetown. Despite the skid, forward Eric Dixon continues to dominate, averaging 24.2 points per game on 46.9% shooting. Guard Wooga Poplar contributes 6.4 rebounds per game, while Jhamir Brickus is the playmaker on the offense with 5.5 assists per contest. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

Defensively, Villanova allows 68.4 points per game while forcing 5.8 steals per contest. Guard Jordan Longino leads the team with 1.5 steals per game, providing pressure on the perimeter. The Wildcats struggle in rim protection, averaging just 2.5 blocks per contest, with forward Enoch Boakye posting 0.8 per game. Despite defensive lapses, Villanova holds opponents to 46.9% shooting, but recent struggles closing games have been costly.

DePaul secured a 74-57 win over Seton Hall in the last outing, improving to 11-12 overall and 2-10 in conference play. Guard CJ Gunn leads the Blue Demons in scoring with 12.0 points per game while shooting 42.9% from the field. Forward NJ Benson provides a presence in the paint, pulling down 6.0 rebounds per contest. Guard Conor Enright has been a steady distributor, averaging 6.2 assists per game for an offense that posts 74.7 points per contest.

Defensively, DePaul allows 73.5 points per game and struggles with interior defense, despite Benson averaging 1.5 blocks per contest. Guard Layden Blocker leads the perimeter defense with 1.2 steals per game, but DePaul has had issues limiting second-chance opportunities, allowing opponents to control the boards. With just two conference wins, the Blue Demons look to build momentum at home against a struggling Villanova team.

Villanova has struggled lately but still holds the edge with superior scoring and playmaking. Eric Dixon's offensive production and the Wildcats' ability to limit turnovers should be the difference. DePaul's defensive inconsistencies make it difficult to trust them against a battle-tested Big East opponent. Final Score Prediction: Villanova Wildcats wins and covers 74-68.