Motivation will be a huge factor, and Gonzaga should have more of it than St. Mary’s. These kids know that St. Mary’s hasn’t beaten the Bulldogs at home in 16 years, and it matters to them and the fans / students. The Bulldogs are coming off of two upset road losses with a lot riding on this game. They have played a tougher schedule than the Gaels and a win at home (where they are 85-5) will put them one game out of first in the WCC.
St Mary’s offensive edge in this game is exaggerated because they have not played as tough a schedule as Gonzaga. Gonzaga’s D is more than capable of stifling St. Mary’s offense on any given day, but even more so in prime time, motivated, coming off of two upsets playing at home in their biggest game of the season.