Preview: Toccoa Falls at Gardner-Webb
Toccoa Falls Looks to Upset Gardner-Webb in Crucial Non-Conference Matchup
The stage is set for an intriguing non-conference showdown as Toccoa Falls takes on Gardner-Webb, a Big South Conference team struggling to find its footing. The matchup promises to be a battle of contrasting styles, with the underdog Toccoa Falls looking to pull off an upset and boost its resume.
Gardner-Webb, currently 1-12 in conference play, has been plagued by inconsistent performances and lackluster shooting percentages. However, the Runnin' Bulldogs have shown flashes of brilliance on offense, particularly from senior forward Spence Sims, who averages a team-high 11.5 points per game.
Sims will face stiff competition from Toccoa Falls's own talented big man, as Jacob Hogarth has been a dominant force in the paint, averaging 9.3 rebounds per game. The Toccoa Falls bench, led by sophomore guard Tyler Jackson, could also prove to be the difference-maker in this matchup.
Gardner-Webb's Jacob Hudson provides another threat on offense, with 2.1 assists per game, but his counterpart on Toccoa Falls, junior point guard Alex Brown, has been excellent at shutting down opposing point guards.
Bench Production: The X-Factor
While both teams have shown flashes of brilliance, the bench production could be the deciding factor in this matchup. Gardner-Webb's lackluster bench play has led to a significant decline in its overall performance. Conversely, Toccoa Falls has leaned heavily on its bench for crucial contributions.
If the Runnin' Bulldogs can get their bench to step up and provide consistent scoring and defensive efforts, they may be able to outlast Toccoa Falls. However, if the Falcons can capitalize on Gardner-Webb's weakness in this area, it could spell disaster for the struggling Bulldogs.
The Game To Beat
As both teams look to build momentum heading into conference play, a win over Toccoa Falls would be a significant morale boost for Gardner-Webb. Conversely, a victory for the Falcons would send shockwaves through the Big South Conference, potentially propelling them into contention for a playoff spot.
As the two teams take to the court on December 19th, fans can expect an intense, physical matchup that will have all the makings of a classic up-and-down game. The stakes are high, but one thing is certain – only one team will emerge victorious in this crucial non-conference showdown.