VCU vs. Virginia: College basketball game preview, TV schedule

The renewal of the rivalry in the Commonwealth has new meaning between VCU and Virginia with the emergence of the Rams as a quality program. This is the first of a home and home series. Here’s hoping there are many more are to come.

TV schedule: Friday, Nov. 17, 4:00 p.m. ET. CBSSN

Arena: Stuart C. Seigel Center in Richmond Virginia

Before first-year head coach for the VCU Rams Mike Rhodes and his team take off for the Maui Invitational next week, they play crosstown rival, the Virginia Cavaliers, in a series that’s been off and on over the decades. Over the last several seasons, both teams have been to the big dance, playing a similar defensive-first style.

The success of VCU (2-0) since their first-ever Final Four appearance has not come without consequence, with a number of coaches coming in and out since the departure of Shaka Smart to Texas. Rhodes looks to continue the newfound tradition of consecutive trips to the big dance.

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Leading the way for this team is senior Justin Tillman, who tied his career high with 27 points in a 95-85 victory on Monday over North Florida. He was helped by a pair of transfers in Issac Vann and Kris Lane, each putting in 17. There are some concerns about the defense taking a step back, but, as long as the offense carries its weight, the Rams should be okay.

Virginia’s defense is never an issue, as Tony Bennett has made it the signature of the program. That figures into this season as well, as they will have to find a way to manufacture offense without star guard London Perrantes around.

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So far it’s been three players whose stepped up; former high school McDonald’s All-American Kyle Guy, senior wing Devon Hall, and freshman forward Jay Huff. Combined, the three average 47 ppg and are the only ones in double figures so far. However, VCU is a much different defensive test.

Next: 3 takeaways in Dukes win over Michigan State

We’re starting to get to the point where teams are going to test themselves against good opponents, so this will be a good barometer of where both teams look early in the season. They each have some questions to answer, so, hopefully, this game will answer some of those. This will be a low scoring affair.

Prediction: Virginia 54 – VCU 50