12. Michigan Wolverines - 7-10 (2-4)
With leading scorer Dug McDaniel suspended for road games, the Wolverines’ chances of competing in the Big Ten will depend on where they play. After losing to Penn State and Maryland on the road, the losing streak extended to five games.
Michigan did win at home on Monday against Ohio State, 73-65, led by 20 points from Olivier Nkamhoua. The hope is that the supporting cast can take care of things without McDaniel but the next two games are going to be as difficult as possible, taking on Illinois and Purdue up next.
11. Maryland Terrapins - 11-6 (3-3)
After more ups than downs in the first couple of months of the season, Maryland may have had a breakthrough. They beat a Michigan team at home without Dug McDaniel, followed by an upset road win over Illinois, 76-67. Jahmir Young had 28 points and eight assists, while Julian Reese went for 20 points and 11 rebounds.
It was an Illinois squad without Terrence Shannon Jr. but it’s still a big win for the program nonetheless to get close to the bubble again. They have a chance to get two more wins to improve their resume, taking on Northwestern and Michigan State.