Michigan State vs Duke: 5 storylines for 2020 Champions Classic matchup

EAST LANSING, MI - JANUARY 17: Rocket Watts #2 of the Michigan State Spartans celebrates his three point shot in the second half of the game against Wisconsin Badgers at the Breslin Center on January 17, 2020 in East Lansing, Michigan. (Photo by Rey Del Rio/Getty Images) /

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Foster Loyer Michigan State Spartans (Photo by Rey Del Rio/Getty Images) /

An external and internal threat to Loyer

The question of who would start at point guard for Michigan State was technically answered by Tom Izzo Wednesday night versus Eastern Michigan. That question was “Who is the starting point guard for Michigan State, Foster Loyer or Rocket Watts?”

Coach Izzo’s answer was Foster Loyer, who rewarded his decision to the tune of 20 points while connecting on six of 10 from behind the arc in 25 minutes. In comparison, Rocket Watts scored two points on one of six shooting in 23 minutes. Despite a huge difference on the offensive end, the playing time was even in a 16 point victory.

Foster, a former No.77 recruit averaged under eight minutes per game as a sophomore last season, while Rocket Watts started 16 of 27 games and averaged over 22 minutes playing alongside Cassius Winston. So, while a great game versus Eastern Michigan was enough to earn Loyer another start, but as Watts’ knee bruise begins to heal Loyer will have to play well versus Duke to prove he is ready for the ‘big time’.

The more obvious and dangerous threat to Loyer’s success will be the actual opposing point guard on Tuesday. However, since Coach K started Jordan Goldwire versus Coppin State, yet played Jeremey Roach more minutes, what match-ups will we be seeing at various points of the game is unknown.

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