12/1 Big Ten Preview: Maryland and Marquette Face Off in Orlando

It’s December and there’s one game today with Maryland facing Marquette in Orlando.

Game of the Day

Marquette Golden Eagles vs #5 Maryland Terrapins

• Time/TV: 1:00 PM ET (ESPN)

Today should be a familiar sight for Big Ten fans as Maryland will face Marquette in Orlando. The Golden Eagles have already faced Purdue and Wisconsin and will face a Big Ten opponent for the third time in seven games. Last time out Marquette dropped 101 on USC with Markus Howard dropping 51 points and shooting 9 of 17 from deep.

That’s sort of the story with Marquette, as Markus Howard is one of the nations top players and if he can get it going like he did last time out on the court than there’s a good chance Marquette can land the upset. In the Golden Eagles lone loss this season, Howard was held to 6 of 21 from the field for 18 points. If Maryland can manage to slow Howard down they should be in good shape.

Maryland is 7-0 but they faced stiff competition from Temple and Harvard in their last two outings. The Terps have been sloppy with the ball and haven’t been great shooting from the field, but took advantage of 40 free throws in their 80-73 win over Harvard. Maryland has a more balanced roster and a better overall team, but also has a poor perimeter shooting team. Marquette has a pretty solid defense so Maryland will be tested today.

If Maryland can slow down Howard or keep him relatively in check they should be fine. If Howard continues to go off, Maryland could be on upset alert. Look for Howard to come back down to earth and Maryland to find a way to win out in Orlando today.

Pick: Maryland