Michigan State basketball: 3 reasons Spartans will beat Villanova

Nov 15, 2022; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Michigan State Spartans guard A.J. Hoggard (11) guards Kentucky Wildcats guard Cason Wallace (22) during the second half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Spartans defeat the Wildcats 86 to 77 in double overtime. Mandatory Credit: Marc Lebryk-USA TODAY Sports /

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Nov 11, 2022; San Diego, California, US; Michigan State Spartans guard A.J. Hoggard (11) dribbles the ball while defended by Gonzaga Bulldogs guard Nolan Hickman (11) during the second half at USS Abraham Lincoln. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports /

2. MSU has the backcourt advantage

Most of the time, the team with the better guard play wins the game. Between these two teams, Michigan State holds that advantage with AJ Hoggard, Tyson Walker, and Jaden Akins. All three could be the Spartans’ best player on any given night and they’re all effective on both ends of the court which is rare these days.

Akins has gotten off to a slow start this year, but I think his breakout is inevitable and could even come on Friday night. Hoggard hasn’t been great offensively, but he’s bound to get on track and his passing has been great. Walker’s shot has been inconsistent, but he can take over a game.

On the flip side, Villanova has a couple of guards averaging in double figures in Caleb Daniels and Jordan Longino but they aren’t the same caliber of backcourt as Hoggard, Walker, and Akins.

The Spartans’ guards will hold Daniels and Longino in check like they have done to other guards through three games and at least two will have big days offensively. They hold a serious advantage here and it’ll be clear on Friday night.

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