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Big Ten Basketball: Maryland vs. Northwestern preview, prediction, TV schedule

By Taylor Sturm

Dec 7, 2016; College Park, MD, USA; Maryland Terrapins guard Melo Trimble (2) dribbles the ball in the first half against the Howard Bison at Xfinity Center. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 7, 2016; College Park, MD, USA; Maryland Terrapins guard Melo Trimble (2) dribbles the ball in the first half against the Howard Bison at Xfinity Center. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Maryland Terrapins and Northwestern Wildcats are set for a Wednesday night showdown with major Big Ten regular season title implications on the line.

TV Schedule: Wednesday, Feb. 15, 7:00 p.m. ET, Big Ten Network

Arena: Welsh-Ryan Arena, Evanston, Illinois

With just two games or less separating both the Northwestern Wildcats and Maryland Terrapins from the Wisconsin Badgers at the top of the Big Ten standings, the Wednesday night game between these two teams could be looked at as what made the difference in the Big Ten regular season title race at the end of the season.

Maryland dominated conference play early, but have lost two of their last three games, including a disappointing loss to the Penn State Nittany Lions. While likely already a lock for the 2017 NCAA Tournament, a strong finish to the season will be necessary for this team to avoid a tough opening match-up. With four of their last six games against teams in the top six of the Big Ten standings, the Terrapins could use a big road win against Northwestern

The Wildcats, on the other hand, won an absolutely massive game on the road against Wisconsin, but will need to keep working if they are to avoid the NIT. Their weak non-conference schedule has really hindered them up to this point, as they have looked fantastic in Big Ten play. This team deserves to make the Big Dance – they just need to finish the season strong.

Next: Why Maryland can make a deep run in March

While this should be a great game between two extremely talented Big Ten teams, Maryland has shown the ability to win tough match-ups on the road already this season. Desperate for another resume boosting win, the Wildcats will take an early lead, but will succumb to the Terrapins in the second half.

Prediction: Maryland 70, Northwestern 62

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