No. 20 Michigan vs. No. 4 Ohio State: How the Wolverines Can Pull off the Upset

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Michigan vs. Ohio State; it doesn't get much bigger than this.

The No. 20 Wolverines (16-5, 6-2 Big Ten) will travel to Columbus on Sunday for a marquee match-up against the No. 4 Buckeyes (18-3, 6-2 Big Ten).

Michigan has not beaten Ohio State at Value City Arena since January 15th 2003, however, this is definitely the most talented team that Michigan has had in years.

This will be the toughest game of the season for the Wolverines. Both teams are tied for first in the Big Ten, placing even more importance on this rivalry game.

Here are four keys to a Michigan upset on Sunday. 

1. Jordan Morgan

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Jordan Morgan looked fantastic against Arkansas and Purdue, and the Wolverines will need him to continue his solid play on Sunday.

In his last two games, Morgan is averaging 14 points and seven rebounds per game, while shooting 66 percent from the field and perfect from the free throw line. Morgan has never been known for his offensive game, although he ranks second in the Big Ten with a 65.1 overall field goal percentage.

Morgan will have his hands full on the defensive end with Jared Sullinger, who is averaging 17.3 points and 9.3 rebounds per game. Michigan is very thin at the forward position, so it will be imperative for Morgan to stay out of foul trouble.

If the Wolverines can contain Sullinger, they can force the Buckeyes' offense to flow through William Buford. Look for Sullinger to be doubled all game down on the block to force the ball out of his hands. 

2. Tim Hardaway Jr.

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Tim Hardaway Jr. looked rejuvenated against Purdue on Tuesday night, and he needs to mimic that performance against the Buckeyes on Sunday. 

Hardaway Jr. was aggressive against the Boilermakers, and he took the ball to the rim. He shot a respectable 8-15 from the field, and hit some big buckets down the stretch.

On Tuesday night, Hardaway Jr. was moving more effectively without the ball. He used off-the-ball screens to get open looks, and looked more confident with his jump-shot. A good barometer of his shot confidence, take a look at the rotation of the ball on his release. When his confidence is lacking, his shot tends to come off flat.

The Wolverines need Hardaway Jr. to be a big time scorer in order for them to compete with top teams, and to possibly capture a Big Ten title this year. His impressive performance vs. Purdue could be a turning point in his season.

Expect the same aggressive mind-set from Hardaway Jr. against Ohio State. 

3. Trey Burke and Jordan Morgan: High-Low Ball Screen

via AnnArbor.com

This play was extremely effective against the Purdue Boilermakers.

Jordan Morgan sets a high ball screen on Trey Burke's man at the top of the key, and then immediately rolls to the basket. This led to numerous easy baskets for Morgan, and opportunities to dish the rock.

The high-low ball screen puts the defense in a tough position. Morgan's man must quickly decide to switch on the screen, or Burke's defender must fight through the screen. Either outcome usually gives the offense an advantage, as Burke will have a step on his defender or a mis-match.

If Burke decides to keep the ball and drive to the basket, this usually draws help defense, which leaves open shooters on the perimeter. 

Look for Coach Beilein's Wolverines to utilize this play on Sunday.  

4. Control Aaron Craft

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Aaron Craft is the Big Ten's leader in steals per game (2.4) and is second in the conference in assists per game (five). 

Craft has developed into a great floor leader for the Buckeyes. He orchestrates the offense effectively, and hustles on the defensive end.

The Wolverines can disrupt his timing with some full court press, and occasionally switching to the 1-3-1 zone. If the Buckeyes get into their set offense early in the shot clock and are able to get Sullinger on a roll, they will be very tough to beat at home.

Emotions will be flying high, and it should be a great game. Tune in to CBS at 1pm on Sunday to see this rivalry battle.

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