SharpBetz
NCAAB

Maryland Terrapins vs Northwestern Wildcats

Thursday, February 19, 2026

Final Score Maryland 74 - Northwestern 78
Spread: L Total:

Matchup Analysis

This NCAAB matchup features Maryland Terrapins (10-16 (6-6)) traveling to take on Northwestern Wildcats (11-16 (8-7)) at Welsh-Ryan Arena, Evanston, IL. These two teams are closely matched, with both squads posting similar scoring differentials this season. This projects as a competitive contest that could go either way. Northwestern averages 73.1 points per game, but they face a Maryland defense that holds opponents to 74.2 PPG. The visitors' defensive prowess could limit the home team's scoring output. Meanwhile, Maryland scores 72.7 PPG but faces a Northwestern defense that limits opponents to 73.9 PPG. The home team's defensive effort could be the difference-maker. Home court advantage is worth approximately 3.5 points in NCAAB, and Northwestern will look to leverage their home crowd. Our model projects Northwestern to win by approximately 4.0 points. The 68% confidence interval ranges from Northwestern winning by 16 to losing by 8. Our model aligns closely with the market on this one, suggesting the oddsmakers have priced this game efficiently. Look for small edges in the total and moneyline markets to capitalize on any remaining value.

Team Comparison

MD Maryland
Stat
NU Northwestern
10-16 (6-6)
Record
11-16 (8-7)
Last 10
72.7
PPG
73.1
74.2
Opp PPG
73.9

Current Odds

Team Moneyline Spread Total
MD Maryland Terrapins
+300 +7.5 O 142.5
NU Northwestern Wildcats
-380 -7.5 U 142.5
Source: Draft Kings Updated: Feb 19, 7:38 PM
Opening line: -8.5 / O/U 141.5

Model Projection

Team Moneyline Spread Total
MD Maryland Terrapins
+167 +4 O 145.8
NU Northwestern Wildcats
-167 -4 U 145.8
Source: Model Updated: Feb 19, 6:56 PM

Our Picks

Spread L
Northwestern (opened at -8.5)
55% Confidence
Total
Pass
Model: 145.8 | Edge below threshold

Recent Trends

Northwestern has struggled this season at 11-16 (8-7). The wins have been hard to come by, and the team is looking for answers on both ends of the floor. Home court advantage will be critical for any chance at pulling off an upset. It's been a difficult season for Maryland at 10-16 (6-6). Traveling to face Northwestern presents a significant challenge, though every game is a chance to build for the future. When these teams meet, the home team typically has the edge given the crowd advantage and familiarity factor. The team that controls tempo and limits turnovers will likely dictate the outcome of this matchup.

Matchup Edges

Northwestern

Advantages

  • Home court advantage and crowd support
  • Familiarity with home venue and routines

Disadvantages

  • Sub-.500 record at 11-16 (8-7) raises concerns
  • Potential for inconsistency in key moments

Maryland

Advantages

  • Nothing to lose as the visiting team
  • Road underdog motivation — play with less pressure

Disadvantages

  • Playing on the road without home crowd support
  • Struggling with a 10-16 (6-6) record this season