Michigan State Basketball: 2018-19 keys for Spartans to beat Ohio State

Michigan State Basketball looks to make it three straight wins when they host the Buckeyes in East Lansing. What are the keys for the Spartans to end up a winner?

Michigan State Basketball has had back to back impressive wins with a decisive 24-point home victory over Minnesota and an imposing road victory at Wisconsin.

Ohio State had won three straight games prior to them losing at home to Illinois by single digits. The Buckeyes are currently sitting in 7th place in the Big Ten and a road victory against Michigan State would be a huge momentum booster for Ohio State.

Cassius Winston and Nick Ward need to score 20 or more points each

In the first meeting between the two teams this season, Cassius Winston scored 25 points and Nick Ward had 21 as Michigan State won in Columbus. Both players are integral components to the Spartan offense and if they are unable to score then they could get upset at home. Winston is playing like the favorite to win Big Ten player of the year not just because he can score and dish out assists but when he scores 20 or more, the Spartans are unstoppable.

Nick Ward with the emeragance of Kenny Goins being able to make 3 pointers, is getting less and less double teamed in the post. Ward after having some not so productive games during the Spartans past three game losing streak has played better offensively these two past games.

Goins and Henry as starters continue to contribute offensively

Two of the biggest surprises lately have been the offensive production of Goins and Henry.  Goins for example hit some late game three’s against Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin. Henry is able to get into the lane as he did against the Badgers and make some mid range buckets in the middle of the paint and key.

If combined they can contribute between 15 and 20 points against Ohio State, the Spartans should come out of this game with a victory.

Limit the Buckeyes outside shooting, especially the three pointers

It will be difficult to shut down Ohio State’s inside game, especially their points in the paint and their post play from their bigs. However, if they are able to make some three pointers then Michigan State would put themselves in position to be upset. In the Spartans three Big Ten losses, their opponents were able to make a good percentage of their three point attempts. The Michigan State guards must limit the three point attempts by the Buckeyes.

To Michigan State’s credit, they limited the Gophers and Badgers 3 point attempts. In both cases, the Spartans won because of their perimeter defense.