Michigan State Basketball: Report card for monster road win at Ohio State

COLUMBUS, OH - JANUARY 5: Head Coach Tom Izzo of the Michigan State Spartans asks the referees for a foul against the Ohio State Buckeyes in the second half on January 5, 2019 at Value City Arena in Columbus, Ohio. Michigan State defeated Ohio State 86-77. (Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images) /

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COLUMBUS, OH – JANUARY 5: Luther Muhammad #1 of the Ohio State Buckeyes battles for a rebound with Xavier Tillman #23 of the Michigan State Spartans and Nick Ward #44 of the Michigan State Spartans in the second half on January 5, 2019 at Value City Arena in Columbus, Ohio. Michigan State defeated Ohio State 86-77. (Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images) /

Rebounding: A-

The Buckeyes were putting up a strong fight on the glass in the first half and were even leading the Spartans in that category to the surprise of many. The second half was much different as the Spartans fared much better and took advantage of Kaleb Wesson being in foul trouble.

Although they had just six offensive rebounds all game, there were a couple that were huge in deciding the outcome of the game — both by Kyle Ahrens.

In fact, the junior wing picked up an offensive board with about 2:30 to play and put it back in for two points to give the Spartans a five-point lead. It wasn’t just the rebounding that aided the Spartans’ big win on the road, but timely rebounding.

Michigan State was able to out-tough the Buckeyes on the glass for most of the second half and used hustle plays to beat Ohio State.

Nick Ward had one of his best rebounding games of the year, totaling eight. Kenny Goins also added eight and Matt McQuaid was a surprise with six. Xavier Tillman had five off the bench and everyone who played had at least one.

That’s what you call a balanced attack.

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