Villanova just laid waste to a Providence team that's probably played its best in losses this season (#19 UMass in 20T, 79-65 to Kentucky), but still has a respectable 10-5 overall record. Seton Hall (10-5), whose last win was also against Providence, 81-80 OT, should represent a stiffer test for the Wildcats if only because tonight's 7:00 pm EST game (TV: CBSSN or Fox Sports 1) will be played at home.

Nationally, most people identify Villanova with, in order (1) Jay Wright (2) their ferocious effort/defense (3) Ryan Arcidiacono and (4) JayVaughn Pinkston, which is pretty close to the true order contributing to their success, with Pinkston probably deserving of spot #3 and Arcidiacono, as much as I love him, probably best kept in the 5th position (behind Darrun Hilliard). Before this season, only reasons #1 and #2 were on the national radar. That's what happens when you're the 8th ranked team in the country and heavy favorite to win the American Athletic Conference, formerly the Big East.

The Wildcats' season has gone almost ideally this season, if only they could have kept the Syracuse a little closer at the end (they blew a 17 point lead in the first half). Impressive wins against Kansas and Iowa (they'll come through with their first big win of the season soon; Ohio State and Michigan State beware) and healthy blowouts of lesser teams have solidified their place as an elite team. Prior to the Providence game, they opened up AAC play with a wild overtime win at Butler. Not quite as talented as in year's past, the Bulldogs are still well-coached in Bradley Stevens' absence and shoot the three extremely well.

If Seton Hall's season up to this point continues its trend, they'll lose a close game tonight as they have in four of their five defeats this year: 77-74 to Mercer in 2OT, 86-85 to Oklahoma, 58-54 to Fairleigh Dickinson (at home), 83-80 to St. Peter's (at home). Against their most formidable opponent, however, they lost 79-66 to Creighton (13-2). In case you're wondering, the spread for tonight is 8.5. The way Villanova dispatched Providence (granted, at home) means that may not be high enough.

For the radio broadcast, try CBS Sports Radio.