No. 2 seed Michigan State faces the "hot" No. 6 seed Ole Miss Rebels; score predictions and analysis.
The Spartans hope to keep their national title run alive as they face Ole Miss in an exciting Sweet Sixteen match up.
This Friday at 7:09 pm, the Spartans will be in Atlanta, Ga. facing the Ole Miss Rebels at State Farm Arena, hoping to play No. 1 seed Auburn or No. 5 seed Michigan in the Elite 8. Ole Miss is coming off a blowout win (91-78) against No. 3 seed Iowa State in which they shot 57.9% from beyond the arch. The Spartans faced the No. 10 New Mexico Lobos, which resulted in an ugly win (71-63); star player Jase Richardson scoring 6 points, making only 1 of 10 shots taken.
Keys to Spartan Victory
With Izzo’s second national championship on the line, the Spartans will need to improve play from last weekend to advance to the Elite Eight. I have identified the following as areas as key to making sure the Spartans advance to the next round.
The Spartans elite rebounding is an essential key to the Spartans victory this evening. Currently, Michigan State is the 2nd ranked team in rebounding margin. Meanwhile, the Rebels struggle on the glass, ranking 330th in the stat. We should expect that Michigan State led by the tenacious rebounder, Jaxon Kohler, will get plenty of second chance points against the Rebels.
Michigan State perimeter defense will also be key in the game, countering Ole Miss’ hot three point shooting in the tournament. Through the tournament, Ole Miss has made 19 of 39 attempts from deep, which is around 49%. Thankfully for Spartans fans, the team ranks 1st in three point percentage defense with opponents only shooting 27.8% against the team. If Michigan States defense plays as they have all season they shouldn’t have an issue slowing down Ole Miss’ offense.
The final key to a Spartan victory is simple, Jase Richardson. Despite his struggles in the last match up, Jase Richardson is a star! If he plays like the top 10 pick many expect him to be, the Spartan will cruise to a victory.
Score Prediction
I believe the Spartans will win tonight's game 78 to 64 with strong performances from Jase Richardson and Coen Carr. Leading to an exciting game on Sunday against either Michigan or Auburn.