(11-10-2022 07:58 AM)RamyEMU Wrote:  I agree with everyone that EMU’s rebounding needs major improvement. You would expect to win the rebounding battle against D2 teams- and EMU missed the mark in both games. But I think UM lost the rebounding battle against Purdue-FortWayne 44-38, and Purdue-FortWayne is very small. So not sure it will factor too much in this game.

I do think our bigs need to play good defense WITHOuUT fouling. I like Randle and Prager a lot, but I don’t think either are ripe enough yet. I want to see a 3 frontcourt rotation primarily of Legend, JBill, and Golson most of the game. Otherwise, expecting Noah and Emoni to be fine and assuming/hoping Acuff does not have another completely cold shooting night.

Prediction: EVEN.

I agree, refs may favor Michigan and look for any excuse to call a foul and receive approval from mostly Michigan fans.

Michigan
In first game they made 9 three's for 27 points, and and scored 75 points in the game. If EMU concentrates on stopping the three ball, and can hold Michigan to 5 three's or 15 points, they will likely score less than 70 points, unless they go to the foul-line a lot. EMU force Michigan's three-point shooters to dribble.

EMU needs to score way more three's than Michigan does. EMU has the players who can do so.

If so, they won't be beaten by Michigan shooting two point shots well. My fear is Heath will be more concerned about defending the rim than the perimeter. EMU can't overplay defensively inside and see inside passes kicked-out out to Michigan perimeter players for open three's. EMU's perimeter players must stay at home.

In Michigan's first game, they had but 4 offensive rebounds, opponent had 13. Even if ORs are close, EMU is in good shape. Defensive rebounds more dependent on shooting percentages.

Need some height defending inside. Randle can provide that. Can use his quickness to deflect inside passes away and make steals. Just needs to learn not to commit so many fouls.in a short period of time. If he does that he'll stay on the court longer and really help EMU's defense.

Lovejoy is another nightmare to deal with. Is fearless and plays with such intensity. Love his quickness.