After a 69-64 win over Rutgers to pick up their second win in Big Ten play, No.14 Wisconsin looks to pick up another quality win to add to their resume against Marquette. The Golden Eagles are coming off a 76-69 win over UTEP and look to upset the Badgers.
How Marquette Can Win:
The Golden Eagles 7-2 record does not show how good the Golden Eagles really are as they have played some tough team early in the season. The Golden Eagles are going have to find a way to way to score the ball against a elite Wisconsin defense who only allows 61 points a game. Another key for Marquette is for them to win the rebound battle as in both losses to Kansas and Indiana the Golden Eagles were out rebounded in both game.
How Wisconsin Can Win:
Wisconsin cannot underestimate this Marquette team as they are way better than their record shows they are. The Badgers must also play very good defense and keep Marquette’s best score Markus Howard in check, as he has went for some very big games so far this season. Also if the Badgers want to avoid a upset they cannot turn the ball over too much, as in their lost to Virginia, Wisconsin was beat in the turnover battle.
Players to Watch:
Wisconsin: If Wisconsin wants to avoid a upset Ethan Happ must have a big game. Happ has averaged 17 points a game with 10 rebounds a game. If Happ can keep this production up, Wisconsin should be able to avoid a upset.
Marquette: If the Golden Eagles want to pull off an upset, a big game from Markus Howard will help. Howard has averaged 22 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists so far this season. Marquette will goes as far as Howard wants to take them.
Score Prediction:
These are two definite NCAA Tournament quality teams. Ethan Happ will have a big game for Wisconsin, but I don’t think it will be enough. The Golden Eagles are at home and will get a big game from Markus Howard. Howard will lead the team to upset Wisconsin. Badgers: 71 Golden Eagles: 75
Image Via: Sports Illustrated
