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Red Raiders must take care of business against Northwestern State

Every game counts, so Tech needs to look sharp against an inferior opponent.

NCAA Basketball: Hall of Fame Classic-Southern California at Texas Tech Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Off to their best start since the 2009-10 season, Texas Tech will put their unblemished record on the line tonight when they take on Northwestern State. The game will tip off at 6:30 PM at United Supermarkets Arena. The game can be viewed on FSSW+

Northwestern State will enter this matchup with just two total wins on the season.

Tech has the advantage in all-time matchups. In four meetings against the Demons, the Red Raiders have been victorious each time. The last time Tech lost a home non-confrence game, the date was December 18th, 2013

However, The Red Raiders can not afford to sleep on Northwestern State. The Demons could present an offensive threat because of their balance in scoring. Through nine games, Northwestern State has seven players who are all scoring above five points per contest.

Northwestern State head coach, Mike McConathy will attempt to wear down Texas Tech. Every single player on the Northwestern State roster is averaging over ten minutes per game. In comparison, Tech has just eight players who average over ten minutes over game.

What does this mean?

It means that Tech will need to get off to a fast start and put the Demons away early. If Mike Mconathy’s squad is able to keep the game close, the advantage will tilt in favor of the Demons.

In many of their games this year, Tech has been aided by heroic second half comebacks. Tonight, The Red Raiders can’t afford to fall behind early. If Tech falls behind, it could spell trouble for the 11th ranked team in the country.

Tariq Owens has been a fantastic player for Texas Tech. Chris Beard will need yet another big game from the senior. Owens will likely be tasked with guarding Ishmael Lane. Lane is the leading scorer and best player for Northwestern State.

Texas Tech is clearly the better team when compared to Northwestern State. While the Demons will present some unique threats, Texas Tech should win this game pretty easily.

PREDICTION: Texas Tech: 66 Northwestern State: 43