Maryland vs. Wisconsin: 2019-20 key storylines for Big Ten clash
By Connor Gluck
Who will win?
Who: 17. Maryland Terrapins (13-3, 3-2) vs. Wisconsin Badgers (10-6, 3-2)
When: Tuesday, January 14th at 9:00 PM ET
Where: Kohl Center in Madison, WI
TV Schedule: ESPN2
This year’s matchup between the Badgers and Terps features two teams who play very different styles of basketball. The Badgers, as usual, play a slow methodical pace defined by playing defense and taking care of the ball. The Terps, on the other hand, love to get out and run and are their best when they can score in transition. Whichever team is able to better control the pace of play should be the favorite to win the game. However, if the Terps are able to put together a quick run, it may be difficult for the Badgers to put together a comeback.
That being said, the Badgers did almost manage one such comeback in the teams’ matchup last year in College Park, MD. The Terps took a big lead early but Wisconsin climbed back in, largely thanks to current leading scorer Nate Reuvers‘ 18 points, along with hair floppy enough to rival Purdue’s Matt Haarms. The Terps managed to stave off the Badgers then, but should look to avoid coughing up any lead they get on their opponent’s home court.
With both teams emphasizing their defense, and struggling to hit shots from deep, expect a slow paced, hard-nosed gamed of definitive Big Ten basketball. Don’t be surprised if this game ends with a final score in the 50s, but also don’t be surprised if Anthony Cowan gets hot and the Terps can pull away big.
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This game should be a lot of fun to watch between two quality programs forming the pinnacle of the Big Ten in recent years.
Final Prediction: Maryland – 63, Wisconsin – 55