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: Cassius Winston #5 of the Michigan State Spartans drives to the basket as Caleb McConnell #22 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights defends 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,) /

2. Cassius Winston can take over games

Cassius Winston is an All-Big Ten talent, for sure, but there’s a decent chance he could be an All-American before the season is over.

The junior point guard from Detroit had yet another All-American performance, showing he can absolutely take over games. He finished with a game-high 22 points and six assists to go along with zero turnovers — yes, zero.

Winston bounced back from one of his worst games, fouling out and turning the ball over three times against Louisville, shooting just 3-for-11 from the field.

Not only did the third-year point guard show he can showcase a short-term memory, but he can come up big when the game is on the line. He made multiple big shots down the stretch to extend the Spartans’ lead and send them home with a 78-67 road win to begin Big Ten play 1-0.

Winston is one of the best the nation has to offer and he’s only getting better.

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