Porous Defense Costs Orange Another One

One, two, three, four. That's four consecutive Big East losses for the Orange. Poor defense has been a recurring theme for Syracuse (18-4, 5-4) in its current losing streak, and today was no different. Marquette gained a 76-70 victory over the Orange, their first in six games since joining the Big East in 2005.

Marquette (14-8, 5-4) hit its shots against the 2-3 zone, making 52% from the field. Jae Crowder, a 6'6" power forward, controlled the game inside, scoring 25 points.

Jimmy Butler added 19, including a clutch three to break a tie at 66 with under two minutes remaining.

Coach, where's the defense? (AP Photo/Jim Prisching)

Individuals got their numbers offensively; Joseph, Jackson, Jardine, and Fair all had double digits. It still wasn't enough to overcome what they lacked in defense, though.

Syracuse had a negative turnover margin and lost the rebound battle, including six offensive rebounds for the Golden Eagles. Rick Jackson, who averages nearly 12 rpg grabbed only four today. Those aren't the keys to a strong defensive performance.

Syracuse will try to stop the bleeding, but it won't be easy; they have to travel to Storrs, CT to take on the fifth ranked Huskies on Wednesday.