By Matt Leon

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – It’s arguably the most anticipated Big 5 game of the year, every year, and it is tonight at the Pavilion as Villanova hosts St. Joe’s in the ‘Holy War’.

The Hawks come into this game 5-2 on the season and this will be their Big 5 opener.  The Wildcats are 5-4 on the season and coming off their first city series win over the weekend, 68-55, at the Palestra over Penn.

St. Joe’s hasn’t played since beating Coppin State last Tuesday and head coach Phil Martelli is looking forward to getting back to action in a classic rivalry game.

LISTEN: Matt Leon interviews Phil Martelli

“This game has a nickname, ‘the Holy War’, for a reason,” Martelli says.  “So we’re looking forward to having the opportunity to play on their campus.”

St. Joe’s is being led these days by senior guard Carl Jones and his 15.4 points a game.  Villanova is paced by freshman guard Ryan Arcidiacono, who is pouring in 12.3 points a game.

LISTEN: Matt Leon talks to the Inquirer’s Joe Juliano about Villanova vs. St. Joe’s

Villanova leads the all-time series between the two rivals, 44-25.  But St. Joe’s won last year’s battle 74-58 at Hagan Arena.

You can follow Matt on Twitter @mattleonkyw.