Maryland and Wake Forest will tip off the first game of the ACC Tournament in Atlanta around lunchtime Thursday, with the Deacs and Terps both looking to improve their NCAA resumes.
Wake Forest blog Blogger So Dear points to the stunning disparity in free throw attempts Wake had the last time they played Maryland as a key to the game:
If Wake is going to win tomorrow, then they simply cannot have 24 fewer free throw attempts than their opponent -- which is exactly what happened last time Wake played Maryland. Additionally, Wake is going to have to shoot better than 29 percent from the three-point line. Chase Fischer must do better than 1-7 from the field, including 1-5 from three. Furthermore, C.J. Harris has to do better than 10 points on 11 field goal attempts.
Maryland blog Testudo Times predicts a close, tired game for a Terps team suffering a long season (and gives some key gambling advice!)
I don't think I can see Maryland running away with this game - they seemed too tired, both physically and mentally. It's been a long slog of a season for this bunch, and while a blowout would be a cathartic experience, it's not likely. But I can see them winning by single digits if they're well-rested and focused, or lose by a fair amount if they play like the first twenty minutes of the Virginia game. I'll be the optimist and say they win it, 74-68. Oh, and of note: two worst defenses in the ACC are meeting today. Take the over.
Date / Time: Thursday, March 8, Noon ET
Location: Phillips Arena, Atlanta, Georgia
TV: ACC Network / ESPNU
Radio: WF Radio Network, Maryland Radio Network, SiriusXM 85
Streaming: ESPN3
Line: Maryland (-4)
For more on the Maryland Terrapins, check out Testudo Times. For Wake Forest news and info, head over to Blogger So Dear, and catch all the news on March Madness at SB Nation's NCAA basketball page.