- Thread Author
- #1
thewolverines24
Senior Member
- Joined
- Aug 2, 2011
- Messages
- 16,793
7 PM ET on BTN. Go Blue!
KEYS
Ball security and movement: Turnovers have been a bit of an issue for Michigan along with reliable point guard play. The one thing that Tarleton State does well is force giveaways which should challenge the Wolverines in the backcourt. The key here isn?t just to value the ball but to move it and create open looks against a team that lacks any notable size. Michigan?s assist rate of 50.8% (172nd) is down sharply from last year?s 57.5% (45th) which is another reminder that this group lacks some of that ball movement and passing that made last year?s offense work.
Defensive foundation: Tarleton?s style of play means that Michigan?s guards, wings and bigs will have to spend a lot of time defending one-on-one. The Wolverines also need to figure out how to stay disciplined defensively ? providing the right amount of help, and communicating more effectively. Michigan hasn?t been able to reestablish last year?s defensive identity with this group and that needs to be a priority in a game like this. I plan to track three-stop sequences (?turkeys?) in this game to see if the Wolverines can string together consistent defensive play.
Vintage Hunter Dickinson: Michigan is looking for better guard and wing play, but it still has Hunter Dickinson. I thought the sophomore center had a disappointing weekend in Las Vegas and he has another level that he can reach on offense and, especially, defense. He?s over a half foot taller than anyone on the TSU roster, this feels like a spot for him to set the tone in the paint. It?s also a chance for him to practice his passing against double teams without turning it over.
KenPom projects a 74-53 Michigan win, giving the Texans a 3-percent chance at the road upset.
KEYS
Ball security and movement: Turnovers have been a bit of an issue for Michigan along with reliable point guard play. The one thing that Tarleton State does well is force giveaways which should challenge the Wolverines in the backcourt. The key here isn?t just to value the ball but to move it and create open looks against a team that lacks any notable size. Michigan?s assist rate of 50.8% (172nd) is down sharply from last year?s 57.5% (45th) which is another reminder that this group lacks some of that ball movement and passing that made last year?s offense work.
Defensive foundation: Tarleton?s style of play means that Michigan?s guards, wings and bigs will have to spend a lot of time defending one-on-one. The Wolverines also need to figure out how to stay disciplined defensively ? providing the right amount of help, and communicating more effectively. Michigan hasn?t been able to reestablish last year?s defensive identity with this group and that needs to be a priority in a game like this. I plan to track three-stop sequences (?turkeys?) in this game to see if the Wolverines can string together consistent defensive play.
Vintage Hunter Dickinson: Michigan is looking for better guard and wing play, but it still has Hunter Dickinson. I thought the sophomore center had a disappointing weekend in Las Vegas and he has another level that he can reach on offense and, especially, defense. He?s over a half foot taller than anyone on the TSU roster, this feels like a spot for him to set the tone in the paint. It?s also a chance for him to practice his passing against double teams without turning it over.
KenPom projects a 74-53 Michigan win, giving the Texans a 3-percent chance at the road upset.
