Preview: Arlington Bpt at Baylor
Baylor Awaits Test from Arlington Baptist in Non-Conference Showdown
The 9-2 Baylor Bears are set to face off against the 0-2 Arlington Baptist Crusaders on December 29th, with both teams looking to build momentum and strengthen their non-conference resumes. This matchup is a significant test for Baylor, which has been relying on its high-powered offense to carry it through tough stretches.
The Challenge Ahead
Arlington Baptist comes into this game riding an 0-2 skid, having struggled against UT Arlington and East Texas A&M in recent contests. The Crusaders will need to find a way to contain Baylor's potent offense, which has averaged 30.2 field goal attempts per game and shot 57.6% from the field.
Baylor's Strengths
Cameron Carr leads the Bears with an average of 22.3 points per game, while Michael Rataj provides a spark on the perimeter with his 3.6 assists per contest. Dan Skillings Jr. is a force in the paint, grabbing 7.8 rebounds per game and anchoring the Baylor frontcourt.
Arlington Baptist's Opportunities
The Crusaders' struggling offense will look to exploit Baylor's defensive vulnerabilities. Arlington Baptist has been able to score efficiently on the road, averaging 64.2 field goal attempts per game, which could pose a challenge for the Bears' defense.
Rebounding Battle Looms Large
One key factor in this matchup is rebounding. Baylor's strong frontcourt, led by Skillings Jr., will look to outmuscle the Crusaders on the glass. Conversely, Arlington Baptist will need to find ways to limit Baylor's opportunities on the boards if it hopes to stay competitive.
What's at Stake?
For both teams, this game represents a critical opportunity to build momentum and strengthen their non-conference resumes. A win for either side would be a significant boost to their respective seasons.
As the Baylor Bears prepare to face off against Arlington Baptist, they will need to find a way to contain the Crusaders' offense while capitalizing on their own strengths. The stage is set for an intriguing matchup that could have significant implications for both teams in the weeks and months to come.