UNC Knows the Syracuse 2-3 Zone; the Huskies Don't Know UNC

Washington coach Mike Hopkins spent almost all of his adult life playing in or coaching Jim Boeheim's unique and stifling 2-3 zone.

It's not something a team can learn quickly, but the Huskies learned enough of it to turn around a 2-16 record the year before Hopkins took charge and turn it into a 15-3 Pac-12 championship in two seasons.

However, Washington has yet to figure out an offense to take the pressure off of it.

 

Bovada has set their Round of 32 line against the Tar Heels at North Carolina -14½, the total at 154½, and the moneyline at Washington +1000 and North Carolina -4000.

Why you should bet on Washington ...

The senior-laden Huskies have indeed mastered the Syracuse zone. Favored Utah State was the latest to discover that it's one thing to study it on video and quite another to play against it for the first time.

Washington's secret ingredient -- who's not so secret anymore -- is Matisse Thybulle, a defensive specialist who's skillset has to be seen to be truly appreciated.

Washington's issue arises when they have the ball. Dudes boast the Pac-12's offensive player of the year in Jaylen Nowell, but the Huskies are just too inconsistent in scoring. Noah Dickerson does his best inside, but this team needs to stop opponents as opposed to run with them.

Why bet on North Carolina ...

Coach Roy Williams recruited for speed and quickness, and the Tar Heels have not disappointed. Their attack puts a premium on striking before a defense can set up, and the inside presence of Luke Maye keeps opponents honest.

All anyone really needs to know about this squad is they swept Duke this season and looked strong doing it.

 

Instant analysis ...

There are numerous stats to peruse, but really, what this game comes down to is the Tar Heels know the Syracuse zone because they play against it at least once every season. This year, they downed the Orange, 93-85, in the Carrier Dome without much trouble.

Combine their experience against the 2-3 with Washington's spotty offense and the Tar Heels uptempo game against the Huskies' deliberate approach, and once North Carolina gets outta the gate, they won't look back.

ATS pick: North Carolina -14½

Result: North Carolina 81 Washington 59 ... Tar Heels cover

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