3 keys and a prediction for Michigan Basketball vs Maryland

3. Win or stay even on the 3-point battle

In the first win for Michigan basketball, the Wolverines made just three 3-pointers but only attempted 11. One thing Maryland is really good at is limiting 3-point attempts and rank first in the Big Ten with the fewest allowed.

However, it’s going to be a pick your poison. Either the Terps can focus on getting the ball out of Dickinson’s hand, or they can continue to guard the 3-point line as they do. You can’t really do both.

A big factor was getting to the free throw line in the first game and that will be important here too. But one thing to note is that Michigan leads the Big Ten in scoring in just Big Ten games.

The Wolverines are also second in field-goal percentage defense which includes ranking second at defending 2-pointers and third when it comes to defending the 3-point shot.

The defense will be a key factor especially when it comes to limiting Maryland. If the Terps get hot from deep, all bets are off, so that’s a focal point for me. I also just don’t see Michigan winning this game with just three triples and I feel like the number should be around 6-8 in a win.

Michigan basketball vs Maryland prediction against the spread

Honestly, Maryland isn’t to be overlooked. The Terps are 43rd in the Kenpom rankings compared to Michigan which is No. 53. The defense is solid and the Terps can really shoot the ball too.

However, I don’t see them having an answer for Hunter Dickinson. He’s dominated the Terps in his career (5-0 record) and I see him having a 20-10 sort of night. I also think Jett Howard and Kobe Bufkin will continue to play well. I also think we’ll see more of that two-big lineup.

This game will be more competitive, but Michigan will win in the end, 72-67.