Wisconsin vs. Michigan State: Preview, prediction, TV schedule
The Wisconsin Badgers and Michigan State Spartans close their regular season with another scandal looming over the latter.
TV Schedule: Sunday, February 25, 1:00 p.m. ET, CBS
Location: Kohl Center, Madison, Wisconsin
The Michigan State Spartans have a big road battle in Wisconsin, while dealing with some other issues.
In a year that has been married by scandal – with the Larry Nassar and sexual assault issues a thousand times more significant – the Spartans could now find themselves under a cloud of sanctions due to the FBI investigation rocking the sport; Miles Bridges‘ mother allegedly accepted impermissible cash payments from an agent.
Right now, the controversy isn’t expected to sideline Bridges. Coach Tom Izzo has denied wrongdoing and ostensibly plans to play his star in the season finale on Sunday.
That could change before the game tips off, though.
If it doesn’t, then the result of the contest shouldn’t be in question. Even with the distraction hanging overhead, the Spartans are just too talented to fall to the Wisconsin Badgers.
This is one of the worst seasons in recent memory for the Badgers, who dropped off a cliff this year. They’ve somewhat saved themselves in conference play, but are just 14-16 overall.
Ethan Happ has continued his role as a star, averaging 18 points and 8.3 points per game. Only one other player is scoring in double-figures, though. Injuries have ravaged this roster, leaving them ill-prepared to qualify for postseason play.
Earlier this season, they managed to keep things relatively close in a 76-61 loss at Michigan State. Oddly enough, that game took place the same day Mark Hollis resigned as Spartans AD in light of the Larry Nassar scandal.
The symmetry is poetic.
But for the symmetry to continue, Michigan State is going to have to beat Wisconsin by 15 points. Even on the road with a distraction looming, that’s a visible target.
Prediction: Michigan State 78, Wisconsin 63