Three thoughts after the release of the ACC/Big Ten Challenge pairings: » How far has Maryland fallen? The Terps drew Northwestern, a team that would burn couches if it just reached the NCAA tournament, let alone won it. The Wildcats have never been relevant. But give the Terps some time; the guess is in 2013 they will be facing a much stronger opponent.
» The N.C. State-Michigan game isn’t the best game, but it might be the most revealing. On paper, there are only two games that challenge this one — Indiana vs. North Carolina and Duke vs. Ohio State. But either the Wolfpack or Wolverines, both returning to prominence, could make a statement in this game.
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» Minnesota and Miami could benefit greatly. Both schools need a quality win early for their portfolio. The Golden Gophers play at Florida State, while the Hurricanes host Michigan State.
– John Keim
