Oregon can play defense as well ranked 13th in 2 point defense compared to Washington at 5th, but the difference in this game is rebounding and getting to the FT line. Oregon is better ranking 12th in FT % while Washington is at 273 and they are a slightly better rebounding team as well. I think their pace is also going to get to Washington who is used to a slower type of game which allows them to set up their defense and be in good position. A team that pushes their possessions changes that completely and it's not surprising to see that Washington is 1-2 against top pace teams with their win coming by just 2 points over Oklahoma.
Southern Illinois is a worse team their record is worse they are 0-5 conference play while Loyola Chicago is 13-4, but Kenpom says they have been extremely lucky so I'm going to fade them here. Looking at it the game and tendencies of each team it also fits nicely. Loyola Chicago relies on the 3 ball way too much. Both teams will of course shoot more from inside the arch and that is where Southern Illinois has the advantages. They rank 93rd in rebounding rate, Loy - 158th. They also rank 137th in 2 point defense while Loyola Chicago ranks 278th while Southern Illinois shots roughly 7% better at home than the road.
