NCAA Basketball: Best conference games to watch of 2019-20 season

Big Ten

The Big Ten race features a slew of teams that are typically at the top. This year, however, there are plenty of improved teams that will make Big Ten games even more exciting. Ohio State is very good, and Illinois and Penn State are looking to earn NCAA Tournament berths. Considering how non-conference play went, it is safe to say that Michigan State can not easily be labeled as the conference favorite. Here are the games that will be most influential in shaping the final standings

7) Illinois vs. Maryland (2/7)

Brad Underwood’s Illinois squad is currently sitting at 8-4. With a strong freshmen class and key returners, they could pull off some stunning wins in conference play. They’ll have a great opportunity to do that against a tough Maryland team.

6) Penn State vs. Ohio State (1/18)

When thinking of this matchup, most people think football. Well, this one is going to be good on the basketball court because this is going to be the best both have been in a while when they meet in January.

5) Iowa vs. Michigan (1/17)

When these two clash in Iowa City, it will most likely be a matchup between two ranked opponents looking to pick up a quality conference win to send a message to the rest of the league. This game has national implications as well. Both squads are NCAA Tournament teams.

4) Michigan vs. Ohio State (2/4, 3/1)

Just like the matchup between Penn State and Ohio State, the thoughts around this rivalry pertain to football. Well, here it is in basketball and it may provide more entertainment than the past few football meetings between the two. I think the Wolverines and Buckeyes will split this series.

3) Michigan State vs. Maryland (2/15, 2/29)

These matchups will be thrilling because of the offensive firepower that will be on display. Both teams shoot the ball very well and the backcourt showdown will certainly be amazing. Michigan State’s Cassius Winston and Maryland’s Anthony Cowan average 17.6 and 16.7 ppg respectively will compete to see who commands this game.

2) Michigan State vs. Michigan (1/5, 2/8)

The games for the state of Michigan have been very thrilling the past few years. I expect this season to be no different. I think Cassius Winston of Michigan State will leave his mark on this rivalry, and NCAA basketball as a whole, with two huge wins over the Wolverines.

1) Maryland vs. Ohio State (1/7, 2/23)

Based on the performance in non-conference play, these two are sitting at the top of the league. The game on January 7th is a great opportunity to see how strong both of these squads are. Whoever wins the frontcourt battles between these two will most likely win the game.