NCAA Basketball: Ranking the 2020 Big Ten/ACC Challenge matchups
14. Pittsburgh at Northwestern
These teams went a combined 6-32 in their respective conferences last season and while both will likely improve this time around, neither are likely making the 2021 NCAA Tournament. But besides the winner of this game gaining an edge for their leagues, this is the time of even matchup that can help determine the progress.
These teams faced off last season in a neutral site game, with Pittsburgh winning, 72-59. Freshman Justin Champagnie had 21 points to lead all scorers and looks to have another big game to give the Panthers the win. Boo Buie had 16 off the bench in that game and will likely start, facing off against Xavier Johnson in the backcourt.
Prediction: Pittsburgh
13. Georgia Tech at Nebraska
In terms of competitiveness, this one shouldn’t be much of a contest. Although the roster has been revamped, the Cornhuskers are projected to be the worst team in the Big Ten this season. Georgia Tech on the other hand is viewed as in the middle of the ACC and is looking for an at-large bid.
And that’s what makes this a little more interesting than Pitt-Northwestern. This is an absolute “must-win” for the Yellow Jackets and their resume due to fewer non-conference games. A loss to the Cornhuskers would be awful without question. That kind of pressure adds at least a little intrigue in case it’s close.