Game Preview: Michigan Needs Big Win Against Badgers

When: 6:00 P.M. Sunday, February 28

Where: Madison, Wisconsin

Coverage: BTN

Michigan (20-9) will be heading out to Madison for a huge game against the Badgers (18-10). Michigan, who is coming off a not so pretty win against Northwestern, is looking to get a big road win to boost their resume before the final game against Iowa. Wisconsin is also looking for a big win, with both teams on the bubble of making the final 68, every game is important now. Neither team can afford a loss right now, especially a Michigan team who has to close out the season with Iowa.

Michigan is going to have to come out ready to play against a Badgers team who has won 4 of its last 5, including wins over, Nebraska, Maryland and Iowa. Wisconsin is on fire as of late. A large part of Wisconsin’s on streak is due to the three ball. Wisconsin is absolutely shooting the lights out as of light and Michigan needs to focus on stopping the perimeter shot.

Michigan, is going to have to improve on some sluggish play as of late. The Wolverines seem to almost shut down during certain parts of the game. Michigan cannot afford any play like that because it could spell an end to the dreams of them playing in the Big Dance this year.

What is going to drive a Michigan win today is, the presence in the paint (that is not Derrick Walton) and as obvious as it always is, the perimeter shot.

Michigan has continuously needed help in the paint all year. It is refreshing to see some of the men starting to show up in the paint. Michigan is going to need to continue to improve on that if they want to come out of Madison with a Win.

My other major key is perimeter shooting. Michigan needs to be accurate today from beyond the arc. If Wisconsin’s defense continues to stymie the opposition like it has in the past 5 games, Michigan is going to need to make the most of its opportunities. Michigan is not going to have many, but making the most of what they do get will go a long way in a getting a win.

Overall, this is a very interesting game. Two bubble teams, going head to head in late February. Does it just get you excited for March?