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Why defense might just be Michigan hoops' calling card come March

Ann Arbor — Michigan has shown it has the offensive firepower, versatility and talent to blitz any opponent that crosses its path.

But Thursday was latest reminder the No. 3 Wolverines can also win in grind-it-out fashion and with ease even when shots aren’t falling thanks to their staunch defense.

That was best demonstrated midway through the second half of Michigan’s 71-64 win over Rutgers at Crisler Center, when the Wolverines slogged through a nearly seven-minute stretch where they mustered just one point.

During that offensive slump, Michigan’s possessions went as followed: blocked shot, blocked shot, offensive foul, missed 3-pointer, turnover, missed shot, traveling violation, offensive foul, made free throw, turnover and another missed 3-pointer.