Is Maryland ready for the final push?
The Terrapins escaped with another close victory Jan. 19, this time in Iowa. It was an excellent example of chemistry overcoming inexperience. The Terps blew the lead with sloppy play only to rally back, 84-76.
No. 25 Maryland is now 17-2 and atop the Big Ten Conference. The Terps already have three solid road victories. It's a pretty impressive start for a team relying on three freshmen while its big men are battling injuries.
But the true test now lies ahead. Late January is when good teams either become great or forgettable. Last year, a Terps team expected to reach the Final Four simply wilted during the final weeks. While it bounced back to reach the Sweet 16, it didn't meet fan expectations from a veteran crew.
