Michigan State Basketball: 5 takeaways from overtime loss to Louisville

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EAST LANSING, MI – NOVEMBER 18: Matt McQuaid #20 of the Michigan State Spartans drives past Johnnie Vassar #5 of the Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles in the first half at Breslin Center on November 18, 2018 in East Lansing, Michigan. (Photo by Rey Del Rio/Getty Images) /

2. No Matt McQuaid, big problems for Michigan State

Being without Matt McQuaid seemed like it would hurt a bit for the Spartans on Tuesday evening, but it was an absolute killer down the stretch.

When Cassius Winston fouled out, it was Foster Loyer and Josh Langford tasked with running point, and that didn’t go quite as well as hoped. Loyer struggled as it was his first true pressure-packed situation at point guard just seven games into his career and Langford, well, he was responsible for the biggest turnover of the game and was just off all night.

Winston would usually play 30-35 minutes per game and had he not fouled out, the game would have had a much better outlook for the green and white.

If McQuaid traveled with Michigan State, he would have brought with him the best perimeter defense on the team and another body who could run point.

Loyer struggled on defense and was in over his head and Langford should not be running point with how turnover-prone he is.

Michigan State better hope to get McQuaid back, and quick.

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