The Wisconsin Badgers are hosting the Michigan State Spartans on Friday in another battle against a top-10 opponent, as they look to make some noise and potentially crack back into the Top 25.
To secure a victory against the No. 10 team, the Badgers must execute a disciplined game plan that focuses on controlling the environment and the tempo. If the Badgers want to continue climbing up the Big Ten standings, they must prioritize ball security and physical presence. Strong starts like the one they had against the Illinois Fighting Illini would be a big boost as well.
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The first key to a Wisconsin victory is controlling the tempo through smart shot selection. Michigan State thrives when it can turn a long rebound or a careless turnover into a fast-break sprint. By moving the ball side to side and utilizing the post, Wisconsin can tire out the Spartan defenders and limit the number of transition opportunities for Michigan State. If the Badgers allow the game to turn into a track meet, the crowd will become a factor that is almost impossible to overcome.
Secondly, the Badgers must win the battle of the backcourt by staying poised under pressure. The duo of John Blackwell and Nick Boyd has been the engine of this team all season long, and their ability to get into the paint and draw fouls will be vital. Michigan State will likely try to play a physical brand of defense to disrupt the rhythm of these guards. Blackwell and Boyd must avoid the offensive fouls that can often plague visiting teams and continue their trend of high-efficiency shooting to force the Spartans to adjust their defensive schemes.
Finally, the bench must provide consistent production to keep the starters fresh throughout the second half. Austin Rapp has shown he can be a game-changer with his ability to stretch the floor as a big man. When Rapp hits a few early three-pointers, it forces the opposing center to leave the rim unprotected, which creates driving lanes for the guards. Against a deep Michigan State rotation, Wisconsin will need a significant scoring lift from the second unit to maintain its offensive pace and counteract the energy of the home team.
Ultimately, this matchup at the Kohl Center represents a high-stakes clash between two of the Big Ten’s most resilient teams. While Wisconsin has proven it can outscore anyone when its backcourt is clicking, the Spartans’ physical defensive identity will force the Badgers to be surgically efficient.
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If Greg Gard’s squad can protect the ball, limit fast-break points, and utilize their depth, they will secure a crucial home win and continue their climb toward a top seed in the conference tournament.
