Gave Maryland a pretty good run yesterday. Had several role players step up including Mark Donnal, who played out of his mind.
To my eye, it seems like Bielien is using more PO-like sets this year (more so than the Burke years). Michigan's offense seemed to give the Terps fits at times, especially with how they used Donnal. As good as a three point shooting team as the Wolverines are (NCAA 10th - 40%), their passing ability actually scares me more. I get the sense that Bielein and Co. may be able to back cut us as well as getting open looks against the shapeshifter/man, in a similar manner to what IU and Michigan State did. Perhaps, tomorrow might be the time to try and pack the middle while bringing back the 2-3 zone? The 'Cats, after all, did have a week to prepare for this one.
On the flip side, Michigan's defense seems suspect at times. They preyed heavily on Maryland's bizarre tendency to get careless with the ball, which helped counteract the weakness in their interior. The Wolverines are athletic, but on the smaller side - something that Maryland took advantage of. If BMac and Demps can avoid turning the ball over, maybe we can try to get Alex going early to open up outside looks later on. Skelly's versatility could prove helpful. Pardon seeing extended minutes might worry me a bit because he may be too much of a defensive liability against a team like this.
Lastly, it doesn't look like Caris LeVert will be able to play on Wednesday, and may be held out for the rest of the year. Tough break for the kid, but beneficial for NU.
To my eye, it seems like Bielien is using more PO-like sets this year (more so than the Burke years). Michigan's offense seemed to give the Terps fits at times, especially with how they used Donnal. As good as a three point shooting team as the Wolverines are (NCAA 10th - 40%), their passing ability actually scares me more. I get the sense that Bielein and Co. may be able to back cut us as well as getting open looks against the shapeshifter/man, in a similar manner to what IU and Michigan State did. Perhaps, tomorrow might be the time to try and pack the middle while bringing back the 2-3 zone? The 'Cats, after all, did have a week to prepare for this one.
On the flip side, Michigan's defense seems suspect at times. They preyed heavily on Maryland's bizarre tendency to get careless with the ball, which helped counteract the weakness in their interior. The Wolverines are athletic, but on the smaller side - something that Maryland took advantage of. If BMac and Demps can avoid turning the ball over, maybe we can try to get Alex going early to open up outside looks later on. Skelly's versatility could prove helpful. Pardon seeing extended minutes might worry me a bit because he may be too much of a defensive liability against a team like this.
Lastly, it doesn't look like Caris LeVert will be able to play on Wednesday, and may be held out for the rest of the year. Tough break for the kid, but beneficial for NU.
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