Richmond vs VCU Preview

The Richmond Spiders take on the VCU Rams this afternoon at 4:00 (CBSSN) at the Robins Center.  The Spiders have a “Golden” Opportunity to bury Virginia Commonwealth with a victory.  Richmond is coming into this one after defeating the La Salle Explorers on Wednesday night.  VCU had a struggle that same night as they were defeated by George Mason at the Siegel Center.  There’s always an extra buzz for this game in general, but today’s is a little different.  The Spiders now sit 1 game ahead of the Rams in the A10 standings, and have a shot to split the season series this afternoon.

Impact of Blake Francis

When these 2 teams met on January 28th, the Spiders were without leading scorer, Blake Francis.  Since returning, Blake has appeared to miss a beat and he could play a major role in the outcome in this one.  If he can shoot the ball well, it will take some pressure off of Jacob Gilyard, who carried a lot of the weight in his absence.  In the 1st matchup, Grant Golden did not have his best performance.  This is a game where Richmond will need hi to be big down low and make a difference on the boards.  Slowing down Marcus Santos-Silva will be key for the Spiders, as well as limiting Bones Hyland’s 3 point looks.  He torched Richmond at the Siegel Center, knocking down 5-6 from 3.  Marcus Evans is listed as day-to-day with a left knee injury, and Rams HC Mike Rhodes when asked about his status said We hope so. So, we’ll see. It’s day to day”.

Prediction

This is a game that the Spiders absolutely need to win for their hopes at reaching the Big Dance without winning in Brooklyn.  This is a game that Richmond will win if they can take care of the ball and limit Marcus Santos-Silva down low.  If those things aren’t happening, this is going to be a tough one.  Final score prediction is Richmond 80 – VCU 75.  We will see you this afternoon Spider Nation!