Georgetown vs. Syracuse: 5 Players to Watch for

This Saturday No. 11 Georgetown will visit No. 8 Syracuse in a much-anticipated Big East matchup.  These two teams are currently tied for first place in the Big East, and the winner of this game may very well go on to win the regular season conference title.

Here are five players that could have an impact on the game.

Player 1: Michael Carter-Williams

Sophomore guard Michael Carter-Williams is averaging nearly 25 more minutes per game compared to his freshman season.  In this added playing time, MCW has proved his value to the Orange.

He is averaging 8.2 assists per game, nearly five more than any other player on Syracuse.  He is also one of four players on the team averaging double-digit points per game.

Look for MCW to pace the Orange attack this Saturday and help 'Cuse put up points in bunches.

Player 2: Markel Starks

After starring at Georgetown Prep in high school, Markel Starks seems to have found his groove at Georgetown University.

Starks, a junior guard, is second on the team in points per game and first in assists per game.  He is a valuable asset on the offensive end for the Hoyas, and could help lead them to an important road victory.

Player 3: C.J. Fair

Perhaps the most NBA-ready player on Syracuse, C.J. Fair is having a solid season for the Orange.  The 6'8'' junior is averaging over 14 points and seven rebounds per contest.

Fair has been dependable for the Orange all season long.  He is shooting nearly 50 percent from the field and over 83 percent from the line.

Expect Fair to make some plays for the Orange in Saturday's matchup.

Player 4: Otto Porter Jr.

Otto Porter Jr. may be the best player on the Hoyas roster.  His numbers definitely testify to this claim, as he is averaging over 15 points and seven and a half boards a game. 

Porter Jr. is also shooting a team-best 44.6 percent from three.  Against the Syracuse zone, Porter Jr. could start raining threes to help pace the Hoya offense.

Player 5: Brandon Triche

Senior guard Brandon Triche is having the best season of his career at Syracuse.  He is averaging career-highs in points, rebounds, and assists.

Triche has also been indispensable for the Orange late in games.  If this game comes down to the wire, as it very well may, look for Triche to make a play that helps the Orange secure a victory.