Michigan will play back-to-back home games for only the fourth (and final) time of the season. The Wolverines host Wisconsin tonight (7:00 p.m., BTN) in the Crisler Center, searching for any bit of life left in a season quickly slipping away.

The Badgers are 16-6 (8-3 Big Ten) and head to Ann Arbor after back-to-back losses but are still tied for second in the Big Ten with Illinois. Wisconsin is ranked 13th by KenPom and should be favored in its next eight games before closing the season at Mackey Arena.

KEYS

Rediscover the offense: Wisconsin is 2-6 when it allows 1.06 PPP or more and undefeated when it holds opponents under that mark. Michigan has only surpassed that offensive output twice in the last eight games after hitting in 11 of its first 14. That feels like the target for the Wolverine offense to have a chance at a home upset.

Post-up defense: Wisconsin is ranked 11th nationally in percentage of offensive plays through post-ups, and both Steven Crowl and Tyler Wahl will see a lot of one-on-one opportunities through the post. Both players can score, but Wisconsin also excels at playing off those post-up actions with different cuts and screening actions.

Dug McDaniel’s shot-making: On his best days, McDaniel is capable of special shot-making nights. He can hit every shot in the book off the dribble, whether the three, mid-range or his array of floaters. Wisconsin’s defense requires some special shot-making to crack, and McDaniel is the only player on Michigan’s roster who profiles to provide that impact.

BOTTOM LINE

Wisconsin has been somewhat vulnerable away from home — losses at Providence, Arizona, Penn State, and Nebraska — but it is tough to muster much optimism surrounding a Michigan team that has lost 10 out of its last 11 games.

KenPom projects a 77-71 Badger victory with a 27% chance at a home upset for the Wolverines.

Go Blue!