The Blue Devils thrive off points off turnovers, turning opponents over to the tune of 15 times per game. The Blue Devils' pressure is the main reason, as they have recorded 7.5 steals per game.

"Defensively, of course, we want to set the tone and be a tough team," Smith said. "We've got to play our defense -- contest, pressure the ball -- and if we do those things against a very good Michigan team, we'll have a very good chance to win."

The Wolverines have a counter to that plan. Beilein started a four-guard lineup against Tennessee, using Zack Novak, Tim Hardaway Jr., Stu Douglass and Darius Morris along with 6-8 forward Jordan Morgan.

"It's difficult to shrink the width of the court against his team," Krzyzewski said. "And one of the things about playing good defense is if you can shrink a court, you make the court smaller based on adjustments, on personnel. Against his team, you have to play the entire half court, and so there's more room for error."

The Wolverines turn the ball over on just 16.7 percent of their offensive possessions -- 16th best in the nation.