Michigan State vs Kansas: 5 storylines to follow

Nov 13, 2015; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans forward Matt Costello (10) runs the floor after made shot against the Florida Atlantic Owls during the first half of a game at Jack Breslin Student Events Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

4. Michigan State’s post presence

Without Gavin Schilling and Marvin Clark Jr. for Tuesday night’s game, the post play is going to come down to Deyonta Davis, Matt Costello, Colby Wollenman and Javon Bess. That’s a big blow to this group as those are two guys who could be extremely productive, but the Spartans are also getting some help from the NCAA as Kansas’ star freshman big man Cheick Diallo will also miss the game.

That’s just one less guy for the Spartans’ big men to have to guard, but I still wouldn’t be surprised to see Izzo use Wollenman a ton and maybe even some Kenny Goins to fill in for guys in foul trouble — which seems like an every-game type of thing.

Costello had a great opening game, looking like a completely different player than he was last year. He looked more aggressive on both sides of the ball, scoring 15 points, grabbing seven rebounds and recording a block while making all five of his free throws. If he can keep up that pace while guarding Perry Ellis tonight, MSU will be in good shape this season.

Davis had a great first game as well, recording a double-double and swatting five Florida Atlantic shots.

Bess is a guy to keep an eye on as many Spartan fans aren’t too familiar with the sophomore forward as he was hurt for most of last season. He had a productive first game as well, scoring nine points and grabbing six boards.

How effective will the post presence be, though?

Next: 3. Tum Tum adding offense