Purdue Basketball: 3 keys for the Boilermakers against Michigan State
By Adam Childs
Slow the tempo
It is no secret that Michigan State loves to get out and run. They run off turnovers, they run off of defensive rebounds and they even run off of made shots. The Spartans thrive on getting fast break points and easy shots before the defense can get back.
Purdue cannot get in a track meet with Michigan State. They just do not have enough firepower to play a game like that. The Boilermakers do not have a lot of depth, either, so they need to keep guys from getting too tired throughout the game by running constantly. Purdue can score on the break but that is not where they are best. Plus, add in how good Michigan State has been offensively lately and it would be a big mistake for the Boilermakers to play a fast game.
They need to settle the ball down on offense and work the clock. Make Michigan State play defense for a long time and, in turn, limit the number of touches the Spartan offense can get. If they can do this and keep the game in the 60’s or 70’s, they have a shot. But if the game gets into the 80’s or higher, the Boilermakers are in trouble.
Purdue has been playing much better and had a great game against Iowa last week, which is encouraging for the Boilermaker faithful. Michigan State is another beast altogether, though, and especially so in East Lansing.
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If Purdue can do the three things mentioned earlier, they have a shot at the upset. Unfortunately, I just do not think they can do all of those things on Tuesday night and it is tough to win on the road anywhere int he Big Ten. Purdue puts up a good fight early, but the Spartans bully the Boilermakers in the second half and pull away for a fairly easy win.