Jan. 14--For Northwestern coach Chris Collins, it's time to get fired up. For Illinois coach John Groce, an even-tempered analytic approach is being applied.
Both teams are trying to find their footing in a slippery Big Ten as they prepare to meet Wednesday night at Welsh-Ryan Arena.
The Wildcats are coming off an impressive road game in which they pushed Michigan State into overtime before suffering an 84-77 loss.
"I want our guys to be angry because I feel like we did a lot of good things to win that game," Collins said. "I don't want them to be sad in any way. I want them to be angry that we couldn't pull it out, and to channel that for the next game."
Illinois (11-6, 1-3 Big Ten) split games last week without their leading scorer Rayvonte Rice, who is out indefinitely with a broken hand. The Illini put together an inspiring upset of No. 14 Maryland only to lose on Sunday at Nebraska.
Groce focused on the positives of the team's renewed dedication to defense and downplayed a disastrous 27.3 percent shooting night against the Cornhuskers.
Through four Big Ten games, the Illini are shooting 37.1 percent and scoring 58.2 points per game, ranking 13th in the 14-team conference in both categories. (Northwestern is shooting 42 percent and scoring 62 points per game in conference play.)
"We have to be a little more precise," Groce said. "That's what we can control."
He cited new lineups being employed without Rice as a reason for the offensive disconnect.
"It takes a little time," he said.
Likewise, Northwestern (10-6, 1-2) is working out kinks with a roster full of young players.
"We have five true freshmen and two sophomores," Collins said. "So that's seven real young kids. We're making strides. It has to start with the culture and environment, making sure they work hard and they train the right way. Then you have to learn how to win. And that's the next step for us."
Northwestern's play against Michigan State, shooting 12 of 25 on 3-pointers, was a head-turner.
"It certainly gets your attention," Groce said. "Their offensive execution is as good as any team we've faced. In my opinion, they're even better than they were last year."
It could take time for both Illinois and Northwestern to figure out the right direction. Wednesday's outcome could signify a starting point for the winner.
Tribune reporter Fred Mitchell contributed.
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