For the first time in program history, Michigan State basketball will face off against Oregon as a Big Ten opponent. The Ducks just joined the conference this offseason and they've represented well in both major sports, but Dana Altman's team has hit a bit of a wall in recent weeks.
Like Michigan State, Oregon is on a losing streak heading into Saturday, but the Ducks' skid is twice as long as the Spartans'. Oregon has lost four straight while Michigan State has lost two.
That doesn't mean Oregon can be overlooked, however. There's a reason this team began the season 16-3 and had a win over Alabama earlier in the year. The Ducks have the pieces to compete, they've just hit a wall offensively and all it takes is one big game to change that.
Michigan State has to be careful on Saturday at noon, but Vegas thinks the Spartans should win this one without much of a sweat, according to DraftKings.
Line: Michigan State -8
Over/Under: 147
Moneyline: Michigan State -355 | Oregon +280
As you can see, Vegas sees this one being a little more lopsided than most would have guessed, especially considering Michigan State's offense has been non-existent over the past two games against former Pac-12 teams that have joined the Big Ten. Vegas doesn't see that happening for a third game in a row.
And I agree wholeheartedly with this spread.
Tom Izzo has faced rocky waters like these plenty over the years and he always comes out stronger right after the losing streak. Plus, a win here would put him one away from tying Bobby Knight's record. All the motivation is there and I just think Michigan State is a much better team overall than Oregon and the Ducks have been poor on the road in the Big Ten over their last three away trips, going 0-3 and losing by an average of 12.7 points per game.
If anything, these odds aren't as heavy in Michigan State's favor as they should be. Do I think Michigan State should win? Absolutely. This should be a comfortable win. But that only happens if this team had a great week of practice and is ready to prove doubters wrong.
Prediction: Oregon 71, Michigan State 85