Michigan State Basketball: Final score predictions vs. No. 5 Illinois

Illinois presents Michigan State basketball with a golden opportunity on Tuesday night. Will the Spartans impress or struggle against an elite team?

An opportunity will be presenting itself on Tuesday night as Illinois comes to town to face Michigan State for the first and only time this season.

This lone meeting in 2020-21 between Illinois and Michigan State is an interesting one as the Fighting Illini are riding a seven-game winning streak and the Spartans are riding high after a big road win over Indiana. But the Illini have shown that they’re beatable, almost losing to Nebraska and Northwestern over the last couple of weeks.

Michigan State needs this one if it wants to build a strong NCAA Tournament resume and just imagine how this win could impact the confidence of these young Spartans.

How does our staff see this one playing out?

Connor Muldowney: I really want to pick Michigan State here. Like I can feel it happening because, why not? This season has been a mess but the Spartans ended their losing streak to Indiana which no one saw coming and now they get a chance to ruin Illinois’ Big Ten title hopes. This win would really be something and it feel like it might just happen but Michigan State will need a career game from Aaron Henry. I think he drops 30 and the Spartans win a thriller. Yes, MSU has sucked me back in just as quickly as I poured the green Kool Aid down the drain.

Final Score: Illinois 73, Michigan State 74

Jack Williams: Of the three top teams in the Big Ten, Illinois is the most vulnerable. Tom Izzo has finally started to get his act together and this team has been steadily improving throughout the year. Rocket Watts, Aaron Henry and Josh Langford will continue to play well en route to a huge win that might singlehandedly resuscitate their tournament hopes.

Final Score: Illinois 64, Michigan State 77

Carter Landis: I’d like to believe Michigan State is rolling into this one capable of beating Illinois, but they’re just not. Illinois is way too talented and playing really good basketball right now. I’d be surprised to see them keep it close.

Final Score: Illinois 73, Michigan State 58

Conner Linsner: Michigan State had a comeback win on the road against Indiana Saturday. They still have a chance to make the NCAA tournament, but they need to win some of these last group of games. Illinois absolutely destroyed Minnesota on the road this weekend. Michigan State might come out with some life, but I see things ending not so good for the Spartans.

Final Score: Illinois 89, Michigan State 76

Stephen Robb: MSU did what I thought was impossible, they beat Indiana. Before we get too excited we must remember that this is one game. If they could beat Illinois then I’d probably say maybe they’re making a run. The fighting Illini are a good tram and tough matchup.

Final Score: Illinois 65, Michigan State 77