Michigan State Basketball: Report card for blowout win over No. 5 Notre Dame

Starters: A-

The starting lineup played a heck of a game. As long as these five guys remain consistent throughout the season, there’s a good chance they could average 65-70 points per game without the bench. Whatever the bench provides would just be the cherry on top of the sundae.

These five combined for 65 points, 19 rebounds, 11 assists, four blocks and two steals while shooting 25-for-49 from the floor and 8-of-18 from 3-point range. Without Miles Bridges’ struggles from deep, the Spartans’ starters shot 7-for-11 from 3-point range.

Let’s start with Bridges. He had a rough shooting night, going just 6-of-15 from the floor, but was 5-for-8 inside the arc. He settled for too many ill-advised long-range jumpers. He’s still not looking like his healthy self as he finished with 14 points, six rebounds and four assists.

Josh Langford and Cassius Winston each tied for the team lead with 17 points. The former was 7-for-13 from the floor and showing he’s not just a 3-point specialist. Winston was 6-of-10 from the floor and 5-of-6 from deep. He also had seven assists and five rebounds.

Next we have Nick Ward. The sophomore big man had 12 points and five rebounds in 18 minutes. He needs to find a way to stay on the floor for 20-25 minutes per game because he’s as efficient as they come.

Lastly, Jaren Jackson Jr. played a heck of a defensive game and had an impact in just 14 minutes. He recorded four fouls, though, and finished with five points, three rebounds and three blocks. He needs to stay out of foul trouble.