Notre Dame at Pitt: Don't Confuse Pace and Low Scoring With Bad Offense

"The Panthers’ offense is very similar to Duke’s last season. They make three-point shots, they don’t commit many turnovers, and they get to the free throw line a fair amount. And as the Panthers have done in every season under Jamie Dixon, they also crash the boards relentlessly."

It’s a good example of how we can’t just look at scoring numbers, on both offense and defense, and deduce whether a team is better offensively or defensively. Some teams play at lower scores because they limit turnovers so that the opponent doesn’t get quick baskets, and because they are efficient while utilizing a higher percentage of the shot clock. Some teams are great defensively despite giving up more points, because they play at a fast pace and generate more possessions.

In tonight’s Big East Top 25 battle du jour, #14 Notre Dame travels to #2 Pittsburgh. Notre Dame has actually been pretty good at limiting opponents on the offensive boards, but Pittsburgh is the best offensive rebounding team in the country. Notre Dame will need to neutralize Pitt’s advantage there. Notre Dame is a veteran squad, and shouldn’t be intimidated on the road. They’ll need seniors Ben Hansbrough and Tim Abromaitis to continue to shoot well from outside to have a chance.

In the other game, Kansas State and Baylor will play a game of hot potato to be anointed the Big XII’s most disappointing team. The Wildcats are 1-4 in conference, while Baylor lacks any notable wins, and the strength of schedule has them in serious trouble for tournament consideration.

[photo via Getty]