The Maryland Terrapins travel to face the Michigan Wolverines at Crisler Center on Wednesday night in a key Big Ten matchup. Both teams enter with identical 22-7 records, but Michigan holds a slight edge in conference play at 14-4, while Maryland sits at 12-6. The last time these teams met, Maryland secured a 64-57 home win on January 11.
Michigan is coming off a tough 93-73 loss to Illinois but remains in contention for a share of the Big Ten regular-season title. The Wolverines have been strong in close games, going 11-1 in conference matchups decided by four points or fewer. Maryland has struggled in tight games, losing all six conference losses by six points or fewer, but comes into this game after a 68-64 win at Penn State.
Maryland Terrapins Preview – Looking for Consistency
Maryland has been competitive all season but has struggled to close out tight games. The Terrapins have dropped multiple contests on last-second plays, which has kept them from the top of the Big Ten standings. Their latest win over Penn State showed they can finish strong when needed.
The Terrapins rely heavily on their starting five, which contributes 85% of the team’s scoring. Freshman forward Derik Queen leads the team with 15.9 points and 9.0 rebounds per game, while Julian Reese adds 13.3 points and 9.4 rebounds. Maryland has a solid inside presence but lacks deep scoring options off the bench.
Defensively, Maryland has been effective, holding opponents to 40.9% shooting. Their challenge will be slowing down Michigan’s interior play, as the Wolverines have two strong post scorers. If Maryland can control the boards and limit second-chance opportunities, they have a chance to pull off the road win.
Michigan Wolverines Preview – Bouncing Back at Home
Michigan has been dominant in close games but struggled in its last outing, giving up 19 offensive rebounds in a blowout loss to Illinois. Despite that setback, the Wolverines are still in position to contend for the Big Ten title if they can take care of business in their final two games.
The Wolverines are led by their frontcourt duo of Vladislav Goldin (16.1 PPG, 6.5 RPG) and Danny Wolf (12.4 PPG, 9.7 RPG). Both big men have been crucial to Michigan’s success, providing scoring inside and rebounding. However, the team lacks depth, relying on its starters for 76% of its scoring.
At home, Michigan has been tough to beat, posting a 13-2 record at Crisler Center. The Wolverines’ defense has held teams to 71.4 points per game, but they will need to tighten up after allowing 93 points to Illinois. If they can limit Maryland’s inside game, Michigan should be in a strong position to bounce back.
Betting Prediction
Michigan is favored at home, where they have been strong all season. Maryland has struggled in close games, and Michigan’s ability to win tight contests could be the difference. The Wolverines have also won seven of the last ten meetings between these teams.
Expect Michigan to control the paint and take advantage of its home-court edge. The total has gone under in six of the last ten matchups, making the under another potential play. Michigan should get back on track with a win, covering the spread in the process.
Pick: Michigan Wolverines -5.5
