ES 
NFL Previews 
MLB Previews 
NBA Previews 
NHL Previews 
Soccer Previews 
Prediction 
Odds 
Last Recap 
Game Picks 
Top Handicapper 
No. 21 Michigan Hopes Lessons Learned Translate vs. Penn State
No. 21 Michigan Wolverines are determined to bounce back from a humbling 91-64 loss to No. 11 Purdue as they prepare to host Penn State on Monday night in Ann Arbor, Michigan. With lessons learned from Friday’s defeat, first-year head coach Dusty May is pushing his team to use the experience as a turning point
Michigan Looks to Regroup After Purdue Loss
The Wolverines (14-5, 6-2 Big Ten) struggled to keep pace with a motivated Purdue squad coming off a surprising loss to Ohio State. Michigan’s performance was marred by a season-high 22 turnovers and a lack of intensity, which May called the most disappointing aspect of the game.
“We didn’t play well. Purdue played very well,” May said. “It’s more the competitive spirit that we didn’t play with that’s most disappointing.”
Despite the loss, Michigan boasts one of the most efficient offenses in the nation. The Wolverines rank seventh in field goal percentage (50.0%) and 12th in assists per game (17.9). They’ll lean heavily on 7-foot-1 center Vladislav Goldin, who leads the team with 16.3 points per game and anchors a balanced offense with five players averaging double figures.
Penn State Faces Struggles of Its Own
The Nittany Lions (13-7, 3-6 Big Ten) are coming off a heartbreaking 76-75 loss to Iowa, their fifth defeat in six games. Penn State had two opportunities to win the game in the final minutes but failed to convert on either possession.
Nick Kern Jr. continued his standout season with 18 points against Iowa. The 6-foot-6 guard is averaging a career-high 12.9 points while shooting an impressive 60.9% from the field. Head coach Mike Rhoades praised Kern’s competitive spirit, saying, “His edge and competitiveness are contagious, and we need that to continue to rub off on the rest of the team.”
Penn State features a high-powered offense, ranking 19th in the nation with 83.8 points per game. Ace Baldwin, the team’s floor general, leads the charge with 14.3 points and 8.0 assists per game.
Industry’s Best
Handicapping Membership
Key Matchups and Storylines
- Turnover Battle: Michigan’s ability to limit mistakes against Penn State’s pressure defense will be crucial.
- Big Men Showdown: Vladislav Goldin’s interior dominance could be a deciding factor against Penn State’s defense.
- Ace Baldwin’s Playmaking: The Nittany Lions’ success hinges on Baldwin’s ability to control the tempo and create opportunities for teammates.
Michigan’s Home Advantage
The Wolverines have historically dominated Penn State at home, holding a 23-3 record in Ann Arbor. However, the Nittany Lions won both matchups last season, including a close contest in the Big Ten tournament. This adds an extra layer of motivation for Michigan as they look to defend their home court and regain momentum.
Redemption on the Line
For Michigan, Monday’s game offers a chance to respond to adversity and refocus on their season goals. Meanwhile, Penn State aims to shake off recent struggles and rediscover the form that led them to an impressive win over Purdue earlier in the season. With both teams hungry for a victory, fans can expect an intense and closely contested matchup.
