Butler at Maryland

Maryland got by a good Davidson team 82-70 to get here. Butler played yet another ugly game against Old Dominion, and came out a winner 57-46. Davidson was made to order for Maryland, as they really like to push it, and Maryland is at their best when the game is up-tempo. It is clear to see they when they struggle, and that is in a game that features half-court offense making them defend the entire shot clock. They lost twice to Miami, Florida and the games were both played in the 120s. They lost to VA in a game played in the low 130s. They lost to VA Tech in a game that saw just 118 points scored before OT. They lost to BC in a game that was in the mid 130s. Now they face one of the most disciplined teams in the country in Butler. The posted total here speaks loud and clear. It is in the low 130s, and MD has not had a game set this low the entire season. The difference is that Butler is better than any of those other teams that played methodically against Maryland. How effective is this style? Butler played Purdue, Indiana, Tennessee, Gonzaga, Notre Dame, Southern Illinois, and ODU. They went 6-1 in those games. They allowed just 67 total assists in those seven games for less than 10 assists a game - their defense is just that good! They also turn you over. They did not have a negative turnover margin in any of those games, and ended with nearly a +6 per game. Yes, they win ugly. Another way to put that is they win with defense and by taking care of the ball. We will ride the dog here, and would not be at all surprised if they come away with the outright win!