On the defensive end, the Cavaliers continue to press out with their long poles. Schroter and Fulton are tall and mobile, and they use their length to negate an attacker's speed. Getting into their bodies, however, is something that Eric Spanos can exploit. Spanos has emerged as the go-to attackman who can score or distribute and will likely draw Schroter as a match up. Braden Erksa, who has struggled with turnovers, might have his speed advantage eliminated by Fulton's length.
The Maryland offensive midfield – both lines – have been the difference this season for the Terps' offense. Against Delaware, the Terps fully inverted its midfield and relentlessly dodged short sticks. While Virginia has two good short-stick defenders and an elite LSM, the Terps' midfield depth has punished teams that lack defensive midfield depth. Lack of depth describes Virginia's defensive midfield.
The Terps will have an advantage in goal. Not only has Logan McNaney stopped shots at an elite level, but his ability also to help in the clearing game will be key against a Virginia team that will surely jump into pressure rides. At the other end of the field, the Terps have tormented both Nunes and Morris. Nunes played his best game in years last week against Towson, and perhaps that has given him confidence heading into this game. If he gets hot early, that will bode well for Virginia. If he gives up goals early, things could go downhill quickly for the Cavaliers.
The Prediction
All signs point to a comfortable Maryland win. The Terps have played at a high level all season while the Cavaliers have struggled. However, Virginia finds themselves with their backs against the wall. A loss to the Terps likely means that Virginia's entire post-season aspirations will require an undefeated ACC season. Expect a closer game than the metrics would suggest, but Maryland's midfield depth on both sides of the field should make the difference.
IMS prediction: Terps 14-11.
The Maryland offensive midfield – both lines – have been the difference this season for the Terps' offense. Against Delaware, the Terps fully inverted its midfield and relentlessly dodged short sticks. While Virginia has two good short-stick defenders and an elite LSM, the Terps' midfield depth has punished teams that lack defensive midfield depth. Lack of depth describes Virginia's defensive midfield.
The Terps will have an advantage in goal. Not only has Logan McNaney stopped shots at an elite level, but his ability also to help in the clearing game will be key against a Virginia team that will surely jump into pressure rides. At the other end of the field, the Terps have tormented both Nunes and Morris. Nunes played his best game in years last week against Towson, and perhaps that has given him confidence heading into this game. If he gets hot early, that will bode well for Virginia. If he gives up goals early, things could go downhill quickly for the Cavaliers.
The Prediction
All signs point to a comfortable Maryland win. The Terps have played at a high level all season while the Cavaliers have struggled. However, Virginia finds themselves with their backs against the wall. A loss to the Terps likely means that Virginia's entire post-season aspirations will require an undefeated ACC season. Expect a closer game than the metrics would suggest, but Maryland's midfield depth on both sides of the field should make the difference.
IMS prediction: Terps 14-11.
