Big win and loss in one game

IU did everything they needed to do to beat Michigan Wednesday night. They rebounded extremely well (40-35 advantage), they protected the ball, shot extremely well and also played some of the best defense they have shown all season. The only thing they forgot to do was make free throws. Had the Hoosiers (7-13 from the line) made their free throws, especially in overtime, they win-period. This loss may do more damage than some realize, Indiana could not have played better and still came up short, at home nonetheless. In the meantime Michigan stole a huge road victory. They did not play well at all until about the last 5:00 of the game. When Deshawn Sims became more active inside, the Hoosiers had to shift their defensive attention from the Wolverine shooters to the paint. This led to a quartet of very good shooters in essence having the type of open looks one is accustomed to having while shooting at ducks in a gallery. Road victories will be the difference this season in the rough and tumble Big Ten. The team that can steal the most is more than likely going to win the conference. Michigan should feel lucky to have escaped with theirs from Bloomington.