In these turbulent times, consistency and experience is huge. That's why I think Pepperdine has a big edge in this matchup with UC Irvine.

While Pepperdine brings back four of its starters from last season, the Anteaters have had a bigger turnover and need to find a way to replace three of their top-four scorers, including both guards.

Pepperdine defeated UC Irvine 77-73 last season, and I think they'll beat them again here in the opener of the 2020/21 season.

8* play on Pepperdine.