2018 MAC Basketball Preview: Central Michigan Chippewas at Toledo Rockets

The Central Michigan Chippewas (16-12, 5-10 MAC) will head south to take on the MAC West-leading Toledo Rockets (19-9, 11-4 MAC) on Friday night.

CMU has struggled lately, going just 4-10 since January 6th, all against conference opponents. While the Rockets, who had a lot of success against MAC schools earlier, have lost their last two conference games and lead Ball State by just one game in the West.

Game Details

• When: Friday, Feb. 23rd, 2018 at 6:30 p.m.
• Where: Savage Arena - Toledo, Ohio
• Watch: CBSSports Network

Players to Watch

Cecil Williams, F, CMU - Williams, who’s second on the team in scoring, has been slowed down a bit lately, averaging just 11 points in the last four games. But, if the Chips want to sneak past Toledo, they’ll need a big game from him. He’s averages 14.6 points, 6.4 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 1 block, and 1 steal per contest.

Shawn Roundtree, G, CMU - Roundtree has been the most consistent and solid offensive threat for CMU. He’s putting down an average of 15 points per game and has scored more than his average in four of the past six games. Look for him to try and spark the Chips here.

Jaelan Sanford, G, TOL - Sanford has scored 10+ points in 17 of the last 18 games and has complimented Fletcher’s offensive prowess well. He also shares the ball well, coming in as the Rockets second leading player in assists.

Tre’Shaun Fletcher, G, TOL - Fletcher has been killing it for the Rockets, leading the team in points (18.7), assists (4), rebounds (8.4), and steals (.8). He’s scored 20+ points in 13 games this season, and has been in double digits in all but two!

Prediction

The Rockets should be able to end their two game skid here against the Chips. While Williams, Roundtree, and DiLeo will make it tough on Toledo, the Rockets should have enough depth and firepower to pull away late and keep themselves a single game ahead of Ball State.

CMU Chippewas - 75
Toledo Rockets - 88