The Wildcats earned my respect for how they responded to two season-ending injuries to key players, as their defense has been superb (third in the B1G in defensive efficiency over the final five games). Opponents averaged 63.2 points on 40.1% shooting during that stretch.

Minnesota is an inefficient offensive squad. The Wildcats beat the Gophers 75-63 on the road earlier this season, holding UM to 42% shooting with 13 turnovers. Minny is a low-scoring team, but it relies more on slowing down the pace than stout defense. Northwestern shot 50% from three against them in the first matchup.

This should be an easy cover for the Cats!