"The Musketeers have lost five of their last eight games. The rigorous Big East slate and glut of teams jockeying for positioning in the standings have made conditions tough, but Xavier also has collapsed at inopportune times.
Defense has been a recurring issue for a group that has allowed an average 77 points in its last five losses. Providence, Seton Hall, Villanova, Marquette and Georgetown averaged eight made 3-pointers in those games.
Xavier also lacked gumption on the glass against the Hoyas. It lost the rebounding battle 26-21.
A lot of 50-50 balls they came up with is something you can control. I think guys want to win but you’ve got to show the effort there,” Stainbrook said. “Especially when they’re making shots and you’re seeing the ball go through the hoop a lot, you’re not really expecting a lot of rebounds to come off. It hurts when the rebound does come off and you’re not the first guy there.”
Xavier had trouble jump-starting its half-court offense at Georgetown because of turnovers and spacing issues. Beyond double-figure finishers Semaj Christon, Justin Martin and Stainbrook, only four other Musketeers scored. None amassed with more than three points." Full article;
http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20140223/SPT0102/302230089/XU-loss-adds-weight-to-coming-road-games