UFC on Fox 2 Predictions: Cub Swanson vs. George Roop

Two of the more inconsistent featherweights on the UFC roster, Cub Swanson and George Roop, will attempt to continue their pattern of trading wins and losses at UFC on Fox 2, as both fighters suffered defeats in their most recent appearances.

Once considered one of the top 145-pound fighters in the WEC, Swanson was submitted in his UFC debut against Ricardo Lamas in November 2011. The loss left the 28-year-old Greg Jackson-trained fighter farther away from the top of the division than he had been in years.

On Saturday, Swanson will attempt to turn things around against a fighter in George Roop, who has been quickly moving in the opposite direction. Since a disappointing loss to Mark Hominick, Roop has defeated Josh Grispi and suffered a controversial decision loss to highly-touted Japanese fighter Hatsu Hioki.

Roop's 72-inch reach will be his main weapon against his 5'7" opponent on Saturday. If Roop can stay on the outside and pick Swanson apart with jabs and kicks, he should be able to coast to a decision victory that will put him back on track toward contending for a title shot.

With seven submission victories, Swanson's strength is on the ground. As long as Roop can avoid getting taken down or tangled up in Swanson's guard, this is his fight to lose.

Roop's past two victories have come via knockout, but Swanson has only been knocked out once in his career and that came against UFC featherweight champion Jose Aldo. Therefore, if Roop does walk away with the victory, expect it to come on the scorecards. 

Prediction: Roop defeats Swanson by unanimous decision

Sean Smith is a Featured Columnist for Bleacher Report MMA. For the latest insight and updates on everything MMA, you can follow Sean on Twitter @SeanSmithMMA.

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