Wiscy could be excused for taking Big Ten events a bit less seriously than Northwestern, whose only path to the postseason is thru the conference tourney. The Wildcats have stayed competitive even minus injured G and second-leading scorer Brooks Barnhizer (17.1 ppg). In 6-7 F Nick Martinelli (20.1 ppg), Chris Collins has one of the Big Ten's most dangerous weapons. All but one of NU's last nine losses have been by single digits as well. Note the Badgers lost a little steam in recent weeks, dropping three of their last five, and needed a late rally to win by 6 at Evanston on February 1, when G John Tonje (27 points) had a big afternoon. Play Northwestern (Big Ten at Indianapolis).

The Badgers can score and they get to the line a ton. This Northwestern team is dealing with major injuries, isn't deep and there is a talent imbalance here. They can get gutted defensively but they can also pound it inside with Nick Martinelli and Ty Berry has been pretty good from deep lately. The Badgers' backcourt has cooled a little lately but I like this match-up to get it cranked back up. As long as Wisconsin doesn't give away possession with silly turnovers (and they tend not to). This is the lowest Badgers' total in Big 10 play all season. Prior meeting closed at 142.5 and went over. I think both teams can get to 70 here. Wisconsin going for 80+ wouldn't shock me.