We'll get this train rolling already. It's a big game in Evanston tonight. Follow along with PurpleWildcats for in-game analysis.

Biggest question for me: can Northwestern stop Rotnei Clarke? They've had problems with guys like Davon Usher and Dez Wells, Clarke is similar in that he's a perimeter scorer but can take advantage and get to the rim. They'll have to do a much better job on shooters tonight, including Kellen Dunham in that mix. I see no reason why they can't win the paint, but it'll come down to how effective their defense is. They can probably go man with some effectiveness-Butler not spectacularly athletic and 1-3-1 leaves holes in the corners-but they'll have to step up in that regard to win.

We're moments from tipoff at Welsh-Ryan Arena.

It's impressive how Dave Sobolewski and Reggie Hearn have emerged as such playmakers on offense. Jared Swopshire and Drew Crawford have just three combined points, yet Northwestern is right there at halftime.

Clear why Northwestern is losing. Still three points combined from Crawford and Swopshire. Can't happen.