The 12th-ranked Cougars give up the seventh-fewest points in the country. They are off a 66-61 victory against Temple this past Sunday and host Wichita State in an early morning Saturday game. 

But first there is this game, which I see as a rest stop for Houston. South Florida is an average team, but should be able to hang within this point spread number at home  considering the situation.

The Bulls should have lots of energy. They've had ample time to prepare, too, having last played on Christmas Day. The 5-7 Bulls have had their last two games called off by their opponents due to COVID. 

South Florida is dominated by transfers. So the extra practice time should come in handy for the Bulls, who have received good play from Javon Greene, a graduate transfer from George Mason, and Caleb Murphy. 

The Cougars recently lost their two top scorers with Marcus Sasser out for the season with foot surgery and Kyler Edwards dealing with a sprained ankle. Key reserve Tramon Mark also was lost for the season due to shoulder surgery. So adjustments have to be made. 

Houston failed to cover as 12 1/2-point favorites against the Owls despite making 16 of 20 free throws. That was unusual because the Cougars are one of the worst free throw shooting teams in the nation ranking 312th making 65.6 percent. 

Given Houston's injuries, poor free throw shooting and South Florida's ample rest time, I believe the Bulls will cover this large spread.