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The second-ranked Michigan Wolverines are off to their hottest start to a season since 2012-13.
The most difficult test to come into Ann Arbor that season was the Indiana Hoosiers, ranked No. 2 at the time. Michigan fell 72-71 as Jordan Morgan’s putback slowly rolled off the rim, denying Michigan the conference championship.
The Hoosiers look to knock the Wolverines off their perch once more Sunday at Crisler Center.
They come into Ann Arbor riding a seven-game winning streak and a 12-2 overall record. Their only two losses come against Arkansas, a dark horse SEC contender, and the currently top-ranked Duke Blue Devils.
The Hoosiers lack many great wins, outside of an early November thrashing of No. 16 Marquette. They racked up 96 points in the 23-point rout.
That offense runs into Michigan’s No. 2 efficiency defense, which allows just 55 points per game. The Wolverines need to show up on that end to maintain their perfect season.
The biggest matchup issue will be Romeo Langford. The No. 4 recruit in the class of 2018 has averaged over 18 points per game with over 50 percent shooting.
That comes mostly in the lane, as he hits threes at only a 21 percent clip. The majority of his points come from the free throw line, displayed most recently with an 11-of-15 showing Thursday against Illinois.
The next best option for Indiana is forward Juwan Morgan. The senior has had six double-doubles on the season and two outings with over 30 points. He exceeds with bully ball inside, but he also hits over 45 percent from behind the arc.
Ignas Brazdeikis and Charles Matthews likely draw Langford, while Teske is tasked with slowing Morgan.
For the second-straight game, Michigan runs into a top-25 efficiency defense, as head coach Archie Miller tosses out the No. 23 unit per Ken Pomeroy.
John Beilein has notched four straight against Indiana dating back to the 2016 Big Ten Tournament quarterfinals.
How To Watch:
Teams: No. 2 Michigan Wolverines (14-0) vs. No. 21 Indiana Hooisers (12-2)
Date: Sunday, Jan. 6
Location: Crisler Center — Ann Arbor, Mich.
Tipoff: 4:30 ET
Television: CBS
Which matchups are you most looking forward to in tonight’s game?