3 bold predictions for Michigan Basketball in Big Ten Tournament

2 of 3

ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN – JANUARY 22: Jett Howard #13 of the Michigan Wolverines takes the floor to play the Minnesota Golden Gophers at Crisler Arena on January 22, 2023 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

Jett Howard goes off and Michigan will beat Rutgers

Michigan basketball won the first matchup despite shooting just 28 percent from 3-point range. Rutgers is a very good defensive team and the way to beat the Scarlet Knights is perimeter shooting.

Their 2-point defense hasn’t been as good lately due to some injuries but the key is still going to be knocking down jump shots as the Scarlet Knights are likely going to force the ball of out Dickinson’s hands as much as possible.

The Wolverines won the first game in New Jersey by 11 points and that was without Jett Howard, who is the best 3-point shooter on the team. Howard has been shooting the ball well lately and in Chicago, he’s likely going to have opportunities.

My guess is that Howard steps up and connects. I also think that Michigan will beat Rutgers again. The Scarlet Knights aren’t a great offensive team, which works because Michigan isn’t a great defensive team. The Wolverines have gotten better and I don’t think the Scarlet Knights have the offensive firepower to win.

Home/Michigan Basketball