After rebounding from their worst loss by far of the season against Notre Dame by defeating DePaul 99-54, the No. 7 Cards will look to continue their pursuit of the Big East regular season championship tonight at home against the Providence Friars.

Louisville has won the last six meetings, and will be heavily favored to make it seven in a row against head coach Rick Pitino’s former team.

Against DePaul, the Cards executed very well in their half court sets, resulting in a season high 18 three pointers and an overall percentage of 59.1 from the field.

Providence gives up 74.9 points per game, so I expect another offensive explosion tonight from the Cards. I’m curious to see how many minutes Preston Knowles will get tonight, given his outburst against DePaul.

Terrence Williams, the team leader in assists and steals, will see very limited action. I don’t see why Pitino would risk further injury against a team in the lower echelon of the conference, and it will give reserves like Reggie Delk a chance to get some playing time.

The remainder of the schedule for the Cards only has one team above .500 in the conference, but that doesn’t mean a whole lot in the Big East. Tonight’s game is a must win because although statistically the remaining opponents may not be intimidating, three out of the five will be on the road for Louisville.

I see an easy victory for the Cards tonight. Hopefully Samardo Samuels will get back into rhythm offensively and Earl Clark can start to knock down some outside shots.

Prediction – Providence 61, Louisville 87