Michigan State Basketball: Final score predictions vs. Notre Dame

Notre Dame comes to town on Saturday night for an ACC vs. Big Ten showdown with Michigan State basketball. Will the Spartans start 2-0?

Michigan State kicked off the season with a 16-point win over Eastern Michigan and while the rest of the Big Ten already has 2-3 games under their belts, the Spartans won’t be playing their second until Saturday night against a visiting Notre Dame squad.

The Irish haven’t played since last March as their season starts about four days later than everyone else’s and that could mean Notre Dame will be rusty.

How does our staff see this one shaking out?

Connor Muldowney: Michigan State looks like the heavy favorite in this one, on paper, but we have to remember that the same could have been said for Virginia Tech last season and the Spartans stumbled early in the year. This has that same type of feel.

Fortunately for the Spartans, this game comes at home and there’s no wear and tear from travel or an unfamiliar environment. Plus, this might be one of the best shooting teams in the nation and it’s definitely an elite passing squad. Michigan State’s offense will wear down this Notre Dame defense.

Final Score: Notre Dame 66, Michigan State 78

Jack Williams: MSU is still trying to develop an identity and will struggle shooting. Without a 20-point game from Foster Loyer, Josh Langford will step up and lead MSU in scoring. Thankfully, the Spartans are the more talented team and will beat Notre Dame in a nail-biter.

Final Score: Notre Dame 58, Michigan State 64

Carter Landis: After a decent game over EMU, the Spartans will look to keep the momentum going as they face a team that is projected to finish near the bottom of the ACC. Expect a bigger game from Rocket Watts, and for MSU to use its size (Hauser, Bingham) to beat the Irish.

Final Score: Notre Dame 57, Michigan State 66