1. Limit second-chance opportunities
Xavier is one of the most physical teams in the Big East and it can often dominate on the glass as a result. That has been a major trend of this recent hot streak for the Musketeers as they are coming out with a ton of energy and determination in every single contest.
More than anything else, Xavier has launched onto the right side of the NCAA Tournament bubble in recent weeks by playing with a ton of effort on both ends of the floor. This has been a development of the entire team but Tyrique Jones is the catalyst.
The senior forward has been absolutely ridiculous on the glass as of late while pushing Xavier to its best stretch of the season. Jones has posted exactly 18 rebounds in three consecutive games (15.8 per game over the last six) as he is arguably seeking out loose balls better than anyone in the country. He seems to understand that his collegiate career is coming to a close and is fighting diligently to keep that alive as long as possible.
Butler has done an excellent job limiting second-chance opportunities throughout this season as it ranks 42nd nationally in defensive rebounding rate. Xavier is far from the most efficient offensive team in the country but it can consistently score if allowed two or three chances on possessions.
Keeping Jones (and Xavier’s other pieces) off the glass will be easier said than done but will still be a necessity for the Dawgs. They will need to be “tougher longer” and that includes staying disciplined on each missed shot and actually ending possessions.