Michigan Basketball: 3 keys to success in rematch with Northwestern
By Adam Childs
Control the tempo
Most times when we talk about controlling the tempo, it is slowing a game down because the other team is very good on the run. Against Northwestern, though, it might be better for Michigan to speed the game up a little.
The Wolverines do not play a fast game, because their lock-down defense can really slow a team down. They also look for open shots and will work the shot clock. But Northwestern is only averaging 71 points a game and has played a lot of low scoring games. They like to slow down the game and make it a sloppy game.
Yes, playing fast can make the game sloppy but if Michigan can speed up the Wildcats it plays into the Wolverines favor. Northwestern, for the most part, is not good playing a quick game and do not have the ability to keep up. Michigan showed that a little in the first game. When they were able to play at their pace they got up by as many as 15, but when Northwestern controlled the pace they came back to take the lead.
If Michigan can play their game and run when they can, they can get Northwestern out of their game. Make them speed up and hopefully, in turn, make them make more mistakes.
Next. Bracketology Projected Field of 68. dark
Michigan will be hungry this game. They know it is hard to stay undefeated but they want the best start in school history and it is right here for them. Northwestern does come in knowing they can play with the Wolverines, but they need to get off to a better start. If they can play with them early they have a shot. I think that Michigan will come up ready to play and the crowd will be electric. Look for a slow game early but Michigan will pull away in the second half for a comfortable win and a new school record.