Michigan State Basketball: 5 takeaways from crucial road win over Rutgers

PISCATAWAY, NJ - NOVEMBER 30: Head coach Tom Izzo of the Michigan State Spartans reacts to a call during the second half of a college basketball game against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at the Rutgers Athletic Center on November 30, 2018 in Piscataway, New Jersey. Michigan State defeated Rutgers 78-67. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images,) /

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PISCATAWAY, NJ – NOVEMBER 30: Xavier Tillman #23 of the Michigan State Spartans reacts after a basket against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights during the second half of a college basketball game at the Rutgers Athletic Center on November 30, 2018 in Piscataway, New Jersey. Michigan State defeated Rutgers 78-67. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images,) /

4. Xavier Tillman is molding into the perfect sixth man

All aboard the Xavier Tillman bandwagon.

The sophomore big man had his second consecutive strong game and if he continues to play like he has over the past two games, the Spartans are going to be incredibly hard to stop — especially in the post.

Tillman is the first man off the bench and he played 30 minutes on Friday, going 4-for-7 from the field with 11 points, eight rebounds and a block. He was aggressive with the ball in his hands, which was a refreshing sight, and he was able to get to the foul line, going 3-for-3.

The Spartans need games like this from Tillman essentially every night as Nick Ward can’t be the only offensive production in the post. Kenny Goins isn’t going to provide much in terms of point production so it’ll be up to Tillman, and he’s developing nicely into a solid role player and sixth man.

Tom Izzo has to be pleased with what he’s gotten from Tillman over the past two games as he’s averaging 11 points and 10.5 rebounds off the bench.

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