"We set ourselves up nicely at half-time to exorcise the demons of before by putting ourselves unnecessarily in that position, " said McGhee.

BBC: Aberdeen manager Mark McGhee relieved at Cup recovery

Even with all of the Northwestern State's usual mass substitutions, nine of the 10 Demons played more minutes than Boynton did in the first half.

NPR: Florida Beats Northwestern St 79-47 In NCAA Opener

The Orange never let the Blue Demons get closer than six points, and that came early in the second half.

WSJ: DePaul loses 78-57 to No. 17 Syracuse

The Blue Demons were outrebounded 47-38 after matching Syracuse with 20 boards in the opening half.

WSJ: DePaul loses 78-57 to No. 17 Syracuse