Michigan State Basketball: 3 keys to victory in must-win battle at Michigan

EAST LANSING, MI - JANUARY 29: A.J. Hoggard #11 of the Michigan State Spartans handles the ball under pressure from DeVante' Jones #12 of the Michigan Wolverines in the second half at Breslin Center on January 29, 2022 in East Lansing, Michigan. (Photo by Rey Del Rio/Getty Images) /

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Michigan State guard Tyson Walker (2) celebrates a 3-pointer against Purdue with teammates during the second half at the Breslin Center in East Lansing on Saturday, Feb. 26, 2022. /

2. Toughness and intensity

The Spartans have to come out of the gate with toughness and intensity. They have to come out with high energy because we all know Michigan will be looking for some revenge after their first matchup.

Michigan State will need to come out hot early because if they don’t, the crowd will just grow louder and the Spartans will dig themselves another hole.

The starting lineup probably will not change from the Purdue game. The starters were AJ Hoggard, Max Christie, Gabe Brown, Malik Hall, and Julius Marble. This lineup helped get the Spartans get out to an early lead and they will need this again. Brown will need to hit some early shots while looking for his shot.

They need to be intense on both ends of the court. Do not let Michigan get into a rhythm offensively. Michigan State has had trouble finding offensive scoring with Marcus Bingham and Joey Hauser in the starting lineup. A change was helpful and look for this success to continue with high energy and intensity.

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