“The Student Section Supports” highlights one game each weekend that is under the national radar and/or has high upset potential. This week we’re looking at the media’s darling in 2010, Northwestern, hoping to get a win it can really shine a light on come thee week before Selection Sunday. And will Michigan State, which could be wobbly, finally lose a game in conference?
When: Saturday, 7 ET (Big Ten Network).
NORTHWESTERN (14-6): I’ve been pretty stubborn on five teams this season. Stubborn in the sense I thought they were/are overrated. I’ve been right with Rutgers, St. John’s, Seton Hall and Miami. Northwestern joined that group after Kevin Coble, the Wildcats’ best player, went out for the year in November. But NU is making me look a fool right now. Yet, they can’t seem to put together three straight wins (haven’t done that since Dec. 22). They get a chance to try get back on the horse after losing to Minnesota Tuesday.
Need to know: Michigan State could see shadows of the team is was for so many years. The Wildcats rebound the ball well with John Shurna and Luka Mirkovic.
Could win because … Northwestern is methodic, and it needs to be in Breslin. Michael Thompson can pass the ball and shoot it from deep. Fellow guards Jeremy Nash and Jeff Ryan are good for nearly four steals per game.
MICHIGAN STATE (18-3): Well, with what is a mammoth three-game lead in the Big Ten, the Spartans can probably afford to hit cruise control and win yet another regular-season title. Just solid. I used to think Raymar Morgan was the most crucial player to this team. Then I thought it was Draymond Green. Now it seems obvious it’s Kalin Lucas. Delvon Roe is probably next!
Need to know: Lucas is a strong-willed player, but he needs to be because he still turns the ball over at times that drive Tom Izzo nuts. The two are creating/have created one of those great bonds that’s fun to watch.
Could win because … Well, it is MSU playing at home against Northwestern, remember. I’d be incredibly, incredibly impressed if NU can escape with a W. But, tactically, Michigan State has the two best players on the floor. The team also averages more points, grabs more rebounds and puts up more assists per game than any other team in the Big Ten. In many games this year, Northwestern’s been its own foil. The Spartans can make sure they are the reason the Wildcats lose.
