Opinion
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Hoosiers Set to Lock Horns with Terrapins in College Park Showdown

As the Indiana Hoosiers prepare to face off against the Maryland Terrapins at Xfinity Center, fans are bracing for what promises to be a riveting encounter. The Hoosiers, coming off a nail-biting performance on February 18th against the Wildcats, where they fell just short at 72-76, are looking to rebound with vigor.


Dec 1, 2023; Bloomington, Indiana, USA; Maryland Terrapins forward Donta Scott (24) dribbles the ball while Indiana Hoosiers forward Anthony Walker (4) defends in the first half at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

In that game, despite being outscored in both halves and committing more personal fouls (22 compared to 20), IND showed remarkable resilience. They boasted a superior field goal percentage of 51 percent and dominated points in the paint with 38. However, their Achilles' heel was free throw accuracy – only making 57 percent from the line – which could have tipped the scales in their favor.


The previous matchup on February 11th against second-ranked Boilermakers was less forgiving for IND as they succumbed to a stinging defeat of 59-79. The Hoosiers struggled particularly from beyond the arc with a mere three-point percentage of 25 and turnovers were also an issue; they gave up possession twelve times.


Mar 10, 2023; Chicago, IL, USA; Indiana Hoosiers forward Trayce Jackson-Davis (23) during the second half at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

However, it's not all doom and gloom for Hoosier fans. On February 7th against Buckeyes, IND showcased their ability to close out games by securing a win with a scoreline of 76-73. Their tenacity was evident as they fought back from behind after trailing at halftime. This victory was underpinned by an impressive second-half performance where they scored an imposing 47 points.


Looking ahead to March third's clash with Maryland Terrapins, it is imperative that Indiana leverages its strengths while addressing its weaknesses head-on. The team must capitalize on its two-point shooting prowess (60 percent against Wildcats) and maintain defensive solidity that saw them block five shots last time around.


Jan 31, 2023; College Park, Maryland, USA;  Indiana Hoosiers guard Jalen Hood-Schifino (1) looks to shoots during the first half against the Maryland Terrapins at Xfinity Center. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

The Terrapins will undoubtedly pose challenges; however, if recent performances are anything to go by, Indiana has shown both vulnerability and potential brilliance in equal measure. It will be crucial for them not only to start strong but also finish stronger – something that has been inconsistent this season.


Fans eager for this matchup can catch all the action live on CBS at Xfinity Center come March third at two o'clock post meridian Eastern Time.

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