One of the few matchups seen twice already this year, Purdue and Michigan meet tonight in Indianapolis amidst the Big Ten Tournament. The two are 1-1 against each other this year, with each team winning at home.
In the first matchup, Purdue won in blowout fashion. The Boilers poured it on in Mackey, and won 91-64. Four different Boilermakers were in double figures, and Braden Smith feasted going for 24 points and 10 assists.
Michigan responded however and won the second matchup 75-73 despite some late-game heroics from Smith. Roddy Gayle turned in one of his best games in a Michigan uniform, turning in 14 points, seven rebounds, and 2 assists. That and some timely Tre Donaldson shots proved to be the difference.
Keys to the matchup: Purdue
There's no secret what Michigan wants to do. As one of the best two point scoring teams in the country, the Wolverines are looking to play through their two seven-footers. Recently, teams have been very accepting of Vlad Goldin going one-on-one and getting his in order to slow down Danny Wolf. It has worked out too, with Michigan's offensive efficiency taking a massive dip over the last month.
Another key for Purdue will be competing on the glass. It sounds like a broken record in Purdue previews at this point, but it is the truth. Purdue's ability to keep Michigan to one-and-done possessions will be critical.
Keys to the matchup: Michigan
While the Wolverines know what they want to do on offense, Purdue's defense can cause problems. Michigan has been turnover-prone, and Purdue's defensive scheme forces plenty. Danny Wolf and the guards' ability to handle pressure and take care of the ball will likely be the deciding factor in Michigan's ability to win this game.
The key focus for Michigan on defense is the other main factor. How they will guard Braden Smith will be key in this game. Smith feasts in drop coverage and Michigan's twin towers typically play exactly that. Their ability to limit Smith in the pick-and-roll with Trey Kaufman-Renn will be important in the Wolverines want to move on to the semifinals.