By Jackson Atoyebi

This was a game that I was very excited to see.  And for the most part I was not disappointed.  Michigan State vs. Illinois at Assembly Hall featured the best two teams in the league this year (with no disrespect to the Boilermakers…ok, ok…maybe a little).  With a win, Michigan State would clinch at least a share of the regular season title for the first time in eight years.  The Illini, on the other hand, were trying to win and keep that slim hope alive at a share of the regular season crown (highly unlikely as Illinois would need to win this game and get another Michigan State loss at the hands of Indiana). 

You knew this game would be a traditional, physical, Big Ten game, especially with the defensive coaching philosophies of both sides and everything that was at stake.   Michigan State jumped out to an early 7-0 lead, and really took control of the game.  They used the Izzo formula: Defense + Rebounding = Win.  They won all the categories a team that depends on physical play needs to win, outrebounding the Illini both offensively and overall, as well as winning the turnover battle.  They were also able to withstand the Illini crowd and a second half push to prove that they are the best team in the conference. 

The Illini were lead by a great effort from their front-court super sophs, Tisdale and Davis.  They combined for 28 points and 13 rebounds, but were not able to make the key plays down the stretch to push Illinois over the top.  I thought they showed great effort, especially considering the intensity of the game and the lack of a real deep rotation.  I believe the lack of consistent play off the bench was the eventual downfall for the Illinois in this game.  The starters all logged at least 32 minutes and showed lack of explosion towards the end of the second half, which prevented them from getting the crucial stops needed, especially against the best team in the conference. 

Both teams are a year away, with Michigan State having a little more upside because of their depth.  That does not mean Michigan State, or Illinois for that matter, can’t make a run in the dance.  They both have the formulas for success: defense, rebounding, and most importantly good guard play.  Lucas and McCamey are stars on the rise, and both coaches have been there before.  With the right seeding, don’t be surprised if we are seeing each team fighting for a spot in a regional final.  However, we could easily see each team get bounced before the finale of the first weekend.  Only time will tell.