From the Cheap Seats: 4 Thoughts On Maryland

Free Throws: This has become contagious since conference play has started. Nigel Johnson, Mike Williams, CJ Gettys, and even Corey Sanders are misfiring from the free throw line. There have been several games this season where if Rutgers is even modest from the line, the end game strategy is different. The Scarlet Knights need to keep working, keep plugging and keep practicing free throws. But again, this is a bad shooting team. It may never get any better.

Steve Pikiell is a Very Good In Game Coach: Look at the open looks the Scarlet Knights got coming out of a time out (that alley oop from Gettys to Freeman was a work of art). And this team defends at an elite level. They frustrate opponents and take them out of their game (credit to Jay Young too).

Talent is an Issue: The reason Maryland pulled away? Their talent took over in the first five minutes of the second half. The Terrapins executed their offense at a high level and made the extra pass to get an open three. But if Rutgers had more offense talent and the ability to hit the three (or, yes, more free throws) this is a game.

They Will Get Another Win Or Two: I felt like the squad played loose tonight and knew they had a shot to win. Getting the first one against Nebraska takes the pressure off. There are a few winnable games still on the schedule and the Scarlet Knights will take advantage.

Want more? Check out Aaron’s recap.