KenPom Forecasts BYU-Utah Rivalry Rematch, Updates Predicted Wins
BYU basketball is set to face off against their arch-rivals, Utah, in a much-anticipated rematch. The Cougars previously defeated the Utes 89-84 in their last encounter in Salt Lake City. This time, the game will take place at BYU’s home court, providing them with a significant advantage.
KenPom, a leading figure in college basketball analysis, forecasts a favorable outcome for BYU. The analytics predict a 96% chance of BYU victory with a projected final score of 92-73. Currently, BYU ranks 14th overall in KenPom metrics. They boast notable statistics as well, with their adjusted offensive efficiency placing them 14th nationally and their defensive efficiency ranking at 20th.
Matchup Insights: BYU vs. Utah
In contrast, Utah struggles in comparison, holding the 114th spot in KenPom rankings. Their adjusted offensive efficiency is currently 75th, while their defensive efficiency ranks significantly lower at 210th. The upcoming match is crucial for BYU as they prepare for a challenging sequence of games ahead.
Upcoming Schedule and KenPom Predictions
BYU faces a rigorous schedule soon after the Utah game, featuring high-profile competitors such as Arizona, Kansas, Oklahoma State, and Houston. Below are the KenPom predictions for BYU’s remaining games:
- vs. Utah: 96% (Win Probability)
- vs. Arizona: 43%
- @ Kansas: 39%
- @ Oklahoma State: 73%
- vs. Houston: 54%
- @ Baylor: 64%
- vs. Colorado: 92%
- @ Arizona: 19%
- vs. Iowa State: 54%
- vs. UCF: 85%
- @ West Virginia: 63%
- @ Cincinnati: 67%
- vs. Texas Tech: 68%
Overall, KenPom predicts that BYU could achieve an impressive 24.2-6.8 season record if they perform well in the remaining games.
Projected Win Totals for BYU
As of now, BYU has secured 16 wins this season, with 13 games still left to play. The potential maximum for the regular season could reach 29 wins if they win all games. Here are the projected probabilities for various win totals:
| Wins | Probability |
|---|---|
| 17 wins | 100% |
| 18 wins | 100% |
| 19 wins | 100% |
| 20 wins | 99.9% |
| 21 wins | 99.0% |
| 22 wins | 95.5% |
| 23 wins | 85.7% |
| 24 wins | 67.1% |
| 25 wins | 42.4% |
| 26 wins | 19.9% |
| 27 wins | 6.3% |
| 28 wins | 1.2% |
| 29 wins | 0.1% |
Striving for 25 or 26 wins appears to be a realistic aim for BYU, positioning them strongly for a top four seed in the NCAA Tournament.
BYU’s Odds in the Big 12 Conference
In the context of the Big 12 Conference, BYU currently holds the fourth-best odds to clinch the title according to ESPN’s Basketball Power Index. Here are the odds for selected competitors:
- Arizona: 56%
- Houston: 55%
- Iowa State: 9%
- BYU: 6%
- Texas Tech: 4%
- Kansas: 1%
With this information, BYU fans can look forward to an exciting remainder of the season filled with high-stakes matchups and competitive play.
