Michigan Basketball: 3 keys to beating Villanova for the national title

Time for the Michigan defense to win a championship

The common part of each Michigan victory this tournament has been the play of the defense. Yes, Michigan gave up a lot of points to Texas A&M, but held the Aggies to 28 in the first half and by then, it was over.

In the other games, opposing teams have made just 25 percent of their 3-point field goals and with Villanova on the other side of the floor, that needs to continue. UM is only allowing 58 points a game during the tournament and while holding the Wildcats under 60 seems impossible, holding them under 70 could give Michigan a realistic chance to win.

One of the most interesting battles will be at the 3-point line and it could be what decides the game. In terms of defending the three, Michigan basketball has been great all year. The Wolverines ranked 5th at 3-point defense during the season and it has been on point throughout the tournament.

Michigan needs to contest everything and even though Nova is going to make some triples, UM really needs to hold their makes down to single digits. If not, the Wolverines will need an extraordinary effort on offense.