Preview Roundups
January 18, 2019
Maryland at Ohio St. 6:30 PM ET
The Big Ten is such a challenge this season, with as many as nine of the conference's 14 programs showing up in the rankings at some point, that teams such as Ohio State and No. 22 Maryland can experience a downturn in a week's time. Going into a Friday night matchup, the Buckeyes have lost three straight since the new year began after starting 12-1 and the surging Terrapins realize what could happen on a tough road trip that starts in Columbus and ends at No. 6 Michigan State.
Northwestern at Rutgers 7:00 PM ET
There are very few easy wins available in the Big Ten, and the schedule hasn't afforded Northwestern many breaks in that regard yet, as five of its first six conference foes are ranked at the moment. The Wildcats hope to regain some confidence following consecutive double-digit losses Friday when they visit Rutgers.
Eastern Michigan at Buffalo 7:00 PM ET
Buffalo will be in search of its 20th consecutive home victory Friday when it battles Eastern Michigan in a Mid-American Conference game. The No. 17 Bulls haven't tasted defeat at Alumni Arena in more than a year and haven't lost to the Eagles at home since the 2003-04 season while winning four straight overall in the series.
Xavier at Villanova 8:30 PM ET
After a mid-December hiccup, Villanova is starting to round into championship form. The 21st-ranked Wildcats continue their Big East schedule Friday when they host Xavier.