Notre Dame's win over top-ranked Syracuse on Saturday was huge for the team's resume, but it still has a lot to do as it begins an important two-game road trip at Seton Hall on Wednesday. While the Irish are on solid footing in the Big East with a 4-3 record, they're just 12-8 overall and ranked No. 98 in the latest RPI standings. On Wednesday they have another opportunity to improve their RPI situation, as the Pirates are ranked No. 8.
Related: Notre Dame Hoops Down #1 Syracuse 67-58, Handing Orange First Loss
To beat this revitalized Seton Hall team, though, the Irish are going to need more of the solid defense they played against the Orange. Seton Hall isn't turning the ball over very often this season, and Notre Dame's defense doesn't force many miscues in general, so playing solid on-ball defense and contesting shots will be critical. Notre Dame didn't force Syracuse into many turnovers, but the Irish held the Orange to 34% shooting and cleaned up the defensive glass.
Date & Time: Wednesday, Jan. 25, 8:00 p.m. ET
TV: Big East Network
Odds: Seton Hall is favored by 6-1/2.
Series History: Notre Dame leads 17-8.
For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, visit Notre Dame blog One Foot Down and Seton Hall blog South Orange Juice. For more from around college hoops, head over to SB Nation's NCAA basketball news hub.