Xavier's season-opener on Tuesday night was far more uncomfortable than it should have been and there were a few reasons for that.
The offense was far from beautiful or captivating and it certainly wasn't the reason Xavier managed to hold on for a 63-60 win over Niagara.
The defense gets the credit for that. And so does Paul Scruggs.
After Niagara clawed back in the game late and cut Xavier's lead to 54-50 with a little more than three minutes left, Scruggs went on a tear that saved the game for the Musketeers.
First, Scruggs made a steal and got fouled.