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Michigan State Basketball: 3 keys to beating a tough Wisconsin team

By Nate Rhoades

Wisconsin guard Brad Davison (34) pressures Michigan State guard Max Christie (5) during the first half of their game at the Kohl Center Friday, January 21, 2022 in Madison, Wis. Michigan State beat Wisconsin 86-74.Uwmen22 14
Wisconsin guard Brad Davison (34) pressures Michigan State guard Max Christie (5) during the first half of their game at the Kohl Center Friday, January 21, 2022 in Madison, Wis. Michigan State beat Wisconsin 86-74.Uwmen22 14 /
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Feb 5, 2022; Piscataway, New Jersey, USA; Michigan State Spartans forward Marcus Bingham Jr. (30) rebounds against Rutgers Scarlet Knights guard Paul Mulcahy (4) and forward Dean Reiber (21) during the first half at Jersey Mike’s Arena. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 5, 2022; Piscataway, New Jersey, USA; Michigan State Spartans forward Marcus Bingham Jr. (30) rebounds against Rutgers Scarlet Knights guard Paul Mulcahy (4) and forward Dean Reiber (21) during the first half at Jersey Mike’s Arena. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Rebounding, turnovers, mental mistakes

Fundamental basketball is what Tom Izzo prides his program on. That was not the case against Rutgers. The Scarlet Knights bullied the Spartans on the glass, winning by a margin of 11. The Spartans also had 15 turnovers. Many of those came from sloppy passes or simply not knowing where they were on the court and stepping on the sideline.

These are things that are fixable. These are also things that the Spartans have struggled with all season. They have beaten themselves more often than being beaten. Michigan State has to get back to tough, physical basketball at home against Wisconsin.

Wisconsin is not known for its rebounding so Michigan State should be able to win this category. However, Wisconsin is looking for revenge so they need to be ready for more physical play from the Badgers. Though the Badgers are not known for their rebounding, they are known for their low turnover rate. They are only turning the ball over eight times per game, playing clean ball.

Michigan State has to be ready for this slow-paced team who will try to slow it down and beat you with their clean play. Get physical, get big, and know where you are to limit the mistakes. That is what will win the Spartans the game.

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