Michigan State Basketball: 3 bold predictions for top-15 road battle vs. Wisconsin
By Nate Rhoades
2. Winning the offensive rebounding battle
There have been struggles happening in the rebounding battle. Michigan State, which is normally known for its rough and tough rebounding, has been lackluster on the glass lately. They have not been that same team as of late.
The Spartans have allowed their opponents to have double-digit offensive rebounds in three of the last four contests.
They were able to escape Northwestern’s close call two weeks ago even when they allowed 15 offensive boards. They barely escaped Minnesota when they allowed 12 offensive rebounds. However, it finally caught up to them in their second matchup with Northwestern when they allowed 17 offensive rebounds.
Though Michigan State has been struggling on the boards. This loss was a wake-up call.
The Spartans have most likely been doing the “war drill” all week. This drill focuses on boxing out and then getting out in transition, two things the Spartans have struggled with. When the Spartans are out in transition they are at their best, however, they have not been able to get out into transition because of they cannot keep opponents off the offensive glass.
The Spartans will win the offensive rebounding battle in this one. The Badgers will have eight or fewer offensive boards, allowing Michigan State to get out in transition.