3 keys and a prediction for Michigan basketball against USC

Michigan basketball will play the first of back-to-back road games in California and here are three keys, plus a prediction for the Wolverines against USC.

Dec 29, 2024; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA;  Michigan Wolverines center Danny Wolf (1) shoots in the first half against the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers at Crisler Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
Dec 29, 2024; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Michigan Wolverines center Danny Wolf (1) shoots in the first half against the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers at Crisler Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images | Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
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Win at least one extra-possession battle

We talked about turnovers. USC averages 11.6 per game compared to 15.2. Michigan forces 14 turnovers per game, and the Trojans force 13.9. So that's something to watch. The Wolverines need to keep things close and also take advantage of their size on the offensive glass. USC is allowing 9.8 offensive rebounds per game (128th) while ranking 346th in offensive rebounding (7.8).

Michigan basketball can afford to lose the turnover battle against USC, but the Wolverines need to have the edge on the offensive glass. If not, that's a recipe for an upset, especially against a team without a single 7-footer.

Prediction

Defense should be the difference here. The Wolverines have the No. 14 adjusted defense in college basketball according to the Kenpom rankings. USC is ranked 81. The Trojans don't appear to have any answers for the Wolverines inside, and as long as Michigan is sound in terms of fouls, turnovers, and rebounds, it should walk away with a win.

Michigan 78, USC 69

Schedule

Schedule