Wed Jan 29 09:50:00 IST 2025: **BYU Cougars Aim for Third Straight Win, Face Tough Test Against Baylor Bears**
PROVO, UT – The BYU Cougars basketball team, riding high on back-to-back blowout victories, will face their toughest test yet in conference play on Tuesday night when they host the Baylor Bears. After dominating Colorado and Cincinnati, outscoring them 97-60 in the second halves of those games, the Cougars are looking to move above .500 in conference play for the first time this season. Their recent success has been attributed to a newfound emphasis on an up-tempo offense and cohesive defense.
However, this winning streak will be put to the test against a Baylor team coming off a strong win over Utah. Analytical models offer differing predictions for the game. KenPom gives BYU a 60% chance of victory with a projected score of 74-71, while ESPN’s BPI is slightly less optimistic, predicting a 54% chance of a BYU win.
A key factor in Tuesday’s game could be BYU’s ability to finally win a close game. The Cougars are currently 0-4 in overtime games and games decided by five points or less, a trend that has defined their season. While their wins have been decisive, often by double digits, a victory over Baylor could mark a crucial turning point in their ability to handle pressure situations.
First Piper 