The Spartans face off against the Maryland Terpins for the second time in less than two weeks. Michigan State just toppled Iowa, 78-70 at the Breslin Center. Maryland, on the other hand, just beat lost to Ohio State 79-72.
Here are three things to watch in this game:
1. MSU Playing With Confidence
Maryland bested Michigan State in their last meeting just about two weeks ago. The Spartans swung a lead late in the game but could not hold on. Instead, Maryland Guard Anthony Cowan Jr. went thermonuclear. He went on an 11-0 run against MSU, giving the Terpins a strong victory.
The Spartans did to Iowa what they could not do to Maryland. Now, MSU is playing with some confidence. Especially players like Malik Hall, Rocket Watts, & Aaron Henry. This game against the Terpins will be close, no doubt. Watch for Michigan State’s confidence levels to be at a season-high level.
2. Malik Hall Back In The Starting Lineup
Malik Hall has a lot of growing to do but has shown flashes of excellence so far. He hustles on the boards and on defense, even if the latter results in foul trouble. Hall only tallied up a total of two personal fouls against Iowa though. Remember, Hall got the start against Maryland the last time around. Watch for his return to the starting lineup against Maryland.
3. Xavier Tillman Sr. More Involved On Offense
Xavier Tillman Sr. did so much defensive against Iowa but struggled on offense. Against Iowa, Tillman scored a total of six points on 2/4 from the floor and 2/4 from the free-throw line. This won’t happen in back-to-back games. Instead, MSU will run a bevy of plays for Tillman including Winston pick and rolls. Watch for a stellar offensive performance from Xavier Tillman Sr.
Michigan State plays against Maryland this Saturday at 8 P.M. on ESPN.
