Columbia at New Haven

Columbia opened fast last season, and the Lions are anxious to do it again after a disappointing season last year. This is the Lions' opening game. Columbia started last season with an 81-78 win over Loyola (MD) and followed that up with a 90-80 victory over Villanova, en route to an 11-1 start. But after that, things fell apart as the Lions lost 14 of their last 15 games. They did not even qualify for the Ivy League Tournament. The Lions return four of their top five scorers from last season, including versatile Kenny Noland. New Haven wants to show well in its home opener after losing to Connecticut, 79-55, in its first game. The Chargers were outrebounded, 40-25, by Connecticut. Both teams have much to prove. Expect a higher-scoring game than the oddsmaker perceives. Take the OVER.