Michigan State Basketball: 3 bold predictions vs. No. 4 Purdue

1. Michigan State finds a way to pull off the upset

I found myself watching highlights from Michigan State’s earlier games in Big Ten and non-conference play. The Spartans were playing really sound basketball.

Sure, turnovers were still an issue, but they were moving the ball well, playing stingy, aggressive defense, and making open shots. Now, the exact opposite is happening. And it’s clear that it’s not a talent issue, it’s a confidence and mental issue at this point.

Confidence will creep its way back in on Saturday against Purdue as the Spartans will make some shots early to take a lead and hang with the Boilermakers instead of falling behind by double-digits within the first 10 minutes.

Michigan State is going to start hitting shots, playing tough, scrappy defense, and the point guards will step up to facilitate while Tyson Walker takes more of a scorer’s role again.

The Spartans will finally end the slump, beating the No. 4 Boilermakers at the Breslin Center to improve to 19-9 and add to that tourney resume.