8. Michigan State (23-5)
It might be March, but we’re still trying to figure out just what we know about this Michigan State team. Tom Izzo’s crew has had a knack for shining brightly in the month of March, but their February had us scratching our head. The Spartans suffered two brutal losses, getting upset by Minnesota before a 21-point loss against Wisconsin. During that time they also scored an important overtime win over Illinois and made some more fireworks this week.
Back on Sunday the Spartans held on for a 66-60 home win over Ohio State. The defense did just enough to withstand Bruce Thornton’s impressive day, with Michigan State getting 20 points and 11 rebounds from Carson Cooper in a grand showing. What transpired Thursday was far more telling, with Michigan State getting a monumental road win at Purdue, holding on for a 76-74 victory. Cooper had 15 points and 6 rebounds while Kur Teng added 13 points off the bench in a stunner.
While not quite perfect, the Spartans have really stabilized over the last few weeks after that tough stretch earlier this month. This team looked like a potential contender at 19-2 and has been playing more like that squad again, especially on the defensive end. While the Big Ten title is out of reach, more statements can be made in upcoming road games at Indiana and Michigan.