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Virginia Tech Hokies vs The Citadel Bulldogs Prediction

By Tim Thomas

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Dec 7, 2014; Blacksburg, VA, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies head coach Buzz Williams instructs his team during a time out in the first half against the Radford Highlanders at Cassell Coliseum. Radford defeated Virginia Tech 68-66. Mandatory Credit: Michael Shroyer-USA TODAY Sports

On Sunday, the Virginia Tech Hokies got a bounce-back win against the Alabama A&M Bulldogs to end a two-game losing streak, and also keep the Hokies above .500. The Hokies will look to continue that momentum in a matchup that could be a little tricker than expected against the Bulldogs of The Citadel.

One thing that makes The Citadel a dangerous team in this matchup is the fact that they are shooting 39.6% from beyond the arc and 46.7% from the field which is 75th best in the nation. The Citadel also is in the top 100 in points allowed per game and seems like a team that does not have a very up-tempo offense.

Probably the biggest matchup in this game will be in the post between The Citadel’s P.J. Horgan and Joey Van Zegeren. Van Zegeren did not play much last Sunday but will be ready to shine in this game against Horgan. Horgan is averaging 13.8 points and 6.8 rebounds a game and will not be completely shut down.

However, Van Zegeren will rise to the occasion and have a big game with 13 to 15 points, 8 to 10 rebounds, and 2 blocks. Van Zegeren having a big game will definitely help in this matchup.

The Hokies have used more 2-3 zone defense and having success that will be critical against a good shooting Citadel team led by Ashton Moore who is averaging 16.0 points per game. However, this defense will be able to force The Citadel into taking some hard shots fairly consistently.

Justin Bibbs has been gaining more confidence and it is developing into the type of high volume scorer that every team enjoys having. Bibbs will be ready to shine for the Hokies in this matchup and put up at least 15 points as he continues to prove why he will be a starter for the Hokies for as long as he is in Blacksburg.

Devin Wilson will not put up tons of points in this game but will do a great job of creating open shots for teammates whether it be another big man in the post or an open shooter beyond the arc. Shane Henry will also do some damage as the backup for Joey Van Zegeren and have a block or two as well.

The Citadel will make this game interesting for the Hokies but Buzz Williams and Virginia Tech will make sure they get the job done. Virginia Tech will beat The Citadel 79-66.

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