Matchup:
Defense? Anyone play any defense? Neither team knows how to play quick-strike defense and both teams have dribble-drive scorers. Both Michigan and Tennessee lack players that average more than one steal or one block per game (save Tennessee’s Melvin Goins – 1.8 spg).
Michigan
Michigan runs a hybrid slash-and-dash offense predicated on dribble-drive and kick-out. Point man Darius Morris (15 ppg, seven apg) and guard Tim Hardaway Jr. (14 ppg) are usually effective at penetrating to open up opportunities for forward Zack Novak and guard Stu Douglass – both shooting about 37-percent from 3pt Land – on the outside.
Tennessee
Right now, the Volunteers are as inconsistent as quick-sand. Sure, they are making a sixth straight trip to the NCAA Tournament, and yes, Tennessee is led by 6-foot-7 guard (yes, guard) Scotty Hopson (19 ppg). But, They’ll need to lock down all of their woes if they plan to walk away from Michigan unscathed. If they can control the temp on offense and stay consistent, they have a shot.
In [Five] words or less…
Turnovers will decide this game
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