Michigan State vs. Notre Dame: Who wins the position battles?

Center: Martinas Geben vs. Nick Ward

Along with Gibbs, Martinas Geben has improved as well for Notre Dame in his final season of eligibility. He started 23 games a year ago, but was largely an afterthought, averaging 3.1 ppg and 3.4 rpg. The 6’9 Lithuanian has become more involved in the offense, bringing his scoring up to 8.0 ppg.

Geben was huge in the comeback win against Wichita State, scoring a season-high 12 points. He made all five of his shots from the field and sank the game-winning free throws to give them both the win and the title. He will be important to give Colson some cover down low and guard the top opposing option in the post.

His counterpart is sophomore Nick Ward, who has similar stats from a year ago but is making more of an impact. Defensively he’s better than a year ago, and his motor, in particular, has been much more consistent. Ward will never be a 20 and 10 kind of guy, but 14 ppg and seven boards a night is solid numbers for him.

The good news for the Irish is that Geben can deal with Ward without extra help in terms of sheer size. Problem is he might not be able to in terms of talent. The goal is not to outscore the Spartan center, but instead to limit his effectiveness.

Edge: Ward