The Final Four Is Not On The Schedule - A Podcast Discussing Michigan State Basketball.

February 27, 2023: Today we were joined by Dominic Lese, of Bracketometry.com who is the #2 ranked bracketologist in the country per Bracket Matrix. In 2022, he correctly predicted all 68 teams in the field and was within one seed line of all the picks. Often, there are national figures who provide their picks and projected brackets but just aren't that close in their predictions (Lunardi of ESPN is 88th, Palm of CBS is #125). In this episode, we looked at MSU's projected seeding, the rest of the Big Ten, how the selection process works, and more. We got into a very interesting discussion on the difference of predictive analytics and selective analytics and how they affect the field. Need some MSU apparel or car decals? Head on over to Nudge Printing and check out their high quality selections. Don't overlook your gutters - they keep your basement dry and protect your yard. Email Kurt Stauffer at the Brothers who just do Gutters to clean, repair, or replace your gutters. His high quality team will treat you right. [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

February 26, 2023: Michigan State heads to Lincoln for a rematch against the now red hot Cornhuskers who, despite sustaining injuries to two starters, is now playing some of its best basketball of the season. The Spartans will look to bounce back from their historic collapse in Iowa City where they inexplicably lost to the Hawkeyes while up 10 with 40 seconds to go in the game. Who knows how MSU will respond to that loss and whether they come out with a shattered confidence or razor sharp focus. According to coach Mike Garland, we will know the answer to that really soon after the tip of the game. Finally, Eric and Rod each have rants about Izzo and the Izzo era at Michigan State and where those fans who insist the program is in a slide can go. If you want to support the Spartan Strong fund head on over to our sponsor, Nudge Printing which is owned and operated by MSU alums Gabe and Brittany. For all your gutter needs on the West side of the state, reach out to Kurt Stauffer and his team at Brothers that Just Do Gutters. Email him at [email protected]. 10% off for listeners of the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

February 25, 2023: In one of the most inexplicable losses in recent memory, MSU loses to Iowa in OT after giving up a 10 point lead with just 40 seconds left to play. Behind spectacular performances from Tyson Walker and Jaden Akins, Michigan State was unable to make just one more play (rebound, free throw, defensive stop) which would have been the difference between overtime and a win. The Spartans were able to get any shot they wanted in the game but as coach Garland pointed out, it was on the defensive end of the court where MSU lost this game. He believes they fell in love too much with their offensive performance and lost focus on the little things like boxing out and effectively switching on screens that allowed Iowa the sliver of light to make their comeback. Now Michigan State will have to play again on the road and try and bounce back against a hot Nebraska team. Need Spartan gear? Head on over to Nudge Printing to pick up your TFFINOTS gear or Spartan apparel. Gutters in trouble? Email [email protected] at a to get them cleaned, repaired or replaced. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

February 23, 2023: The Spartans head to Iowa City for a rematch against the Iowa Hawkeyes in a game that means a lot for both teams in terms of NCAA and Big Ten Tournament seeding. Michigan State won the first meeting in East Lansing but had to rely on a wide open missed 3 by Peyton Sandefort as time expired to pull it out. Things will likely be different this time as Iowa will have its friendlier home rims where they are likely to shoot much better behind the arc than their 3-17 effort at the Breslin Center. Once again, the keys to the game remain largely the same for the Spartans. Limiting Kris Murray, playing well on the defensive boards, and hitting a lot of 3s. Also, Filip Rebraca has been playing so much better than the last matchup so MSU will have to get a good contribution again from its bigs. Need Spartan apparel? Head over to our friends at Nudge Printing for a good deal. How is the gutter situation at your home? If you need gutter repairs, replacements, or cleaning and you live in West Michigan, talk to our good friend Kurt Stauffer to get a good deal and get things fixed up. Email him at [email protected]. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

February 21, 2023: In Michigan State's first return to the hard court after the tragedy that struck campus on February 13th, they handed Indiana a decisive loss 80-65 behind a blistering three point attack and a dominant effort on the glass. Indiana star player, Trayce Jackson-Davis finished with 19 points but had only 13 FG attempts and 6 FT attempts to go with just 7 rebounds and 7 turnovers. After scoring just 13 points in the first 12 minutes and change to open the game, MSU caught fire behind Tyson Walker and his four three pointers. Jaxon Kohler also contributed both on the defensive and offensive end to help spark the Spartan's attack that eventually turned a nine point deficit into a 6 point lead going into the half. Fortunately, the hot shooting from behind the arc continued in the second half as MSU got up 15 points and let Indiana never get closer than 5 points the rest of the way. Are you gutters in disrepair? Email [email protected] to have a high quality professional assessment for your gutters if you live on the west side of the state. Be sure to visit Nudge Printing for all your MSU apparel needs. They also carry a number of other schools in Michigan and nationwide. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

February 19, 2023: Michigan State has one game under its belt after the terrible tragedy on campus Monday the 13th as it returns to host the #14 Indiana Hoosiers. Trayce Jackson Davis has really picked up his game as his Hoosiers look to sweep the Spartans this year. In what will certainly be a game full of all sorts of emotions from players, coaches, and fans MSU will look to try manage the emotions to be effective as they get back to some level of routine. In the last matchup, Indiana shot a blistering 60% from behind the 3 point line while also tearing up MSU on the boards and inside. The question will be what the Spartans try to do to limit Indiana's offensive production from TJD and the rest of their cast of characters. It will also be interesting to see if they can hit enough 3s as a team to keep pace with the Hoosiers. Need MSU apparel? Check out Nudge Printing for all your gear. If you're living on the west side of the state and have problems with your gutters, make sure you reach out to Kurt Stauffer at Brothers who just do Gutters. His team will treat you right. 10% off if you tell them Final Four in your request. You can reach him at [email protected]. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

February 18, 2023: We knew after the tragedy on February 13 that this matchup against UM on the road would be a challenge for MSU. For about 36 minutes of the game, they managed to hang with the Wolverines and e ven lead for a long portion of the game. But down the stretch, Michigan hit enough shots and the Spartans missed a few to come up just short. It was an environment where Michigan managed to show their support for the victims of the shooting on MSU's campus with the band playing the MSU Colors. Pregame, green lights shone down over the crowd and court and Spartan Strong signs were visible throughout the stands including the student section. MSU will now return back home to campus with an arguably more emotional game to play than this one when they take on the Indiana Hoosiers on Tuesday night. If you live in West Michigan and have gutter problems, reach out to Kurt Stauffer at [email protected] to get a quote for replacements, repairs, or just cleaning. Also, head on over to Nudge Printing for their Spartan Strong t-shirts which they are making to support the efforts on campus. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

February 16, 2023: In what will certainly be an emotional game, MSU will restart its season after the heinous shooting on campus Monday evening. After postponing (and probably canceling) the Wednesday night Minnesota game, Michigan State is resuming nearly all their athletic activities beginning Friday. Schools across the Big Ten and country have paid tribute to the fallen students to the gunman and ceremonies are planned for the matchup in Ann Arbor as well. The Spartans won the first matchup at the Breslin Center despite abysmal shooting from 3 point range because they played great defense and the Wolverines were even worse from deep. Michigan is almost certainly outside of the discussion for an NCAA tournament berth unless something remarkable happens so they might be playing desperate or despondent. Emotions will probably be a huge key to the game for both teams and it will be impossible to predict how they react. To take care of your gutter needs email [email protected] or visit the website for Brothers that just do Gutters. For Spartan apparel go to Nudge Printing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

February 14, 2023: This is an Ask Me Anything that we recorded before the events that occurred on MSU's campus February 13, 2023. What transpired with a gunman who killed and injured a number of MSU students was senseless and a tragedy. As the campus begins the healing process we decided to release this episode with a brief word beforehand with the understanding that the listener will find the appropriate time and place to listen to the episode. We answered questions about top all time Izzo teams, the most hated Wolverine on the hardcourt, and much more. Please consider supporting our sponsors like Nudge Printing for Spartan apparel and contact Kurt Stauffer for all your gutter needs in West Michigan (or email at [email protected]. The full transcript of our statement can be found on our website episode page. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

February 12, 2023: It has been a while but MSU finally got a Big Ten road win and now has a winning streak going into its mid week matchup against the Minnesota Gophers. Behind stifling defense, the Spartans had a 13 point lead at halftime allowing OSU to score just 14 points. The Buckeyes were a little better in the second half where they cut a 16 point lead down to 5 midway through but Michigan State went on a 13-2 run to put the game away for good. It's the first road win blowout for the Spartans and one that still strangely qualifies as a quad one win for tournament seeding. Whether that holds or not depends on the play of the Buckeyes down the stretch who are 1-13 over their last 14 games. MSU was buoyed by great shooting from Joey Hauser who finished 6-9 from three and 22 points and 8 rebounds. Jaden Akins struggled from outside the arc but still managed 8 points and 9 rebounds. Are your gutters a mess? Contact Kurt Stauffer at Brothers that just do gutters if you live in the West side of Michigan. Email at [email protected] or contact him at the following website. Need Spartan Apparel? Check out Nudge Printing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

February 10, 2023: Michigan State will head on the road again for the fourth straight weekend as it will take on the Buckeyes in Columbus on Super Bowl Sunday. Despite high expectations, Ohio State is in a free fall losing ten of its last 11 games including their last home game to the Northwestern Wildcats. Inexplicably, OSU still carries a better NET and KenPom ranking than the Spartans despite a losing record and 3-10 mark in the Big Ten. However, this team can be dangerous and MSU has not shown an ability to punish teams even when they are not as good. AJ Hoggard and the Spartans will have to bring a solid game in order to start a winning streak to try and improve their seeding in the Big Ten Tourney and NCAA Tournament. Listen to our (mostly wrong) Ohio St. Preseason show here. Check out Nudge Printing for all your Spartan Apparel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

February 9, 2023: Mady Sissoko sits down with the TFFINOTS team to talk about life in his home of Bafoulabe, Mali in west Africa, his recruitment to MSU, and what he hopes to do for his village back home. Mady definitely see basketball as a way to give back and transform his impoverished home town. Be creating a charitable foundation, he is looking to raise money to build a school in his village. Currently, children have to walk an hour and a half to get to and then from school. After school, they are expected to work on their farms so many children stop going to school at a young age because it takes too long and is too tiring to walk and then farm. Mady is looking to raise $50,000 over the next few months to begin construction of the school to benefit his village and all the neighboring villages of school aged children. He sees this as a great way to help the future of lots of families in his home. Make a charitable tax free donation at the Mady Sissoko Foundation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

February 7, 2023: Michigan State hosted a hot Maryland team late Tuesday night and managed to pull out the win 63-58 in a game that ended up a lot closer than it seemed it would at first. MSU started the game on a 15-0 run before Maryland was able to get any scoring. The Terrapins managed to stay in contact with the Spartans and only trailed by 9 going into half time. MSU started out well in the second half and then the wheels came off as they gave up a 14-0 run and actually trailed Maryland midway through the second half. Maryland was only able to extend the lead to 4 points before MSU went on another run of 8-0 behind some big 3s and never looked back. The Spartans improve now to 7-6 in the Big Ten behind the strong performances of Tyson Walker, AJ Hoggard, and Joey Hauser. Next up for MSU is a date with the reeling Buckeyes in Columbus on SuperBowl Sunday. Check out Nudge Printing for all your Spartan apparel and decals. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

February 5, 2023: Michigan State looks to 'get right' on Tuesday night as it welcomes in the Maryland Terrapins for their only meeting this season. MSU is due for a little home cooking as it needs to get back on track from behind the arc in order to generate the offense it needs to win games. Defensively MSU has been generally solid of late but the offense has been largely stagnant behind the point guard play of AJ Hoggard. What was once a strength of this team in the backcourt has become a little bit of a problem as AJ has failed to effectively attack opposing defenses. This is a Maryland team that is riding a four game winning streak but has obvious weaknesses in poor shooting (especially from 3) and defensive rebounding. A decent offensive rebounding team, the Spartans will have to be strong on the glass to limit the Terrapins' second chances. That is always a priority against a team that doesn't shoot jumpers very well. Check out our Maryland preseason show here. Go to Nudge Printing for all your MSU apparel and corn hole decal needs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

February 4, 2023: In a game where MSU's shooting was as cold from outside as it was outside in the snow, the Spartans lose to Rutgers 61-55 on just 19% shooting from behind the arc. Unlike the first meeting in East Lansing, MSU held their own on the boards and actually finished outrebounding the Scarlet Knights by 10. But it wasn't enough as costly turnovers and poor shooting doomed the Spartans in a game that was there to be had. MSU will look to bounce back on Tuesday night against the Maryland Terrapins in the Breslin Center. Check out Nudge Printing for all your spartan apparel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

February 2, 2023: It's another matchup with the Rutgers Scarlet Knights for Michigan State but this time its not at the Breslin Center, but Madison Square Gardens in New York. This is probably a bullet dodged by MSU to avoid playing at the RAC where Rutgers is extremely hard to beat. However, the Knights will once again be a tough matchup for the Spartans. In the last matchup, Rutgers obliterated MSU on the offensive glass where they pulled down 18 in the game. Luckily for MSU, Rutgers shot poorly at only 32% for the game and a miserable 2-17 from 3 which effectively neutralized their advantage on the glass. The Spartans drained 12 of 22 from deep giving them a 30 point advantage from behind the arc. Listen to our Rutgers preseason show here. Check out Fabricated Printing for your specialty t shirt printing needs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

February 1, 2023: Michigan State finally has a few days to rest between games after their brutal January schedule so we thought it would be a good time to check back in with LSJ columnist, Graham Couch. We spoke to Graham about where he sees this MSU team at the turn (halfway through the Big Ten season) and the rest of the Big Ten. Will the Purdue Boilermakers keep up this pace in the league? Can they go deep in the tournament? How about MSU? And most importantly, what is to be done about officiating in the Big Ten and college basketball in general? Check out Nudge Printing for your Spartan apparel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

January 29, 2023: Mackey Arena remains a house of horrors for the Spartans as they drop another game on the road to #1 Purdue. Michigan State will have to wait at least another year as they haven't won on Purdue's floor since the 2013-14 season. The lumbering 7'4" Zach Edey was once again too much for MSU as he had 38 points and was complemented by 3 point shooting from a number of unlikely contributors in the Purdue backcourt. MSU will have a few days to rest and regroup before taking on second place Rutgers in Madison Square Gardens on Saturday. Despite the lackluster results for this Spartans team there are still 9 games and the Big Ten Tournament left to get the MSU engine running before a (hopefully) deep run in the NCAA tournament. Rod describes why he thinks MSU is about to start a run. Check out Nudge Printing for all your MSU apparel and decals. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

January 27, 2023: After losing a heartbreaker to Purdue in East Lansing two weeks ago, MSU has a chance for revenge. Aside from being in a different arena, this time the Spartans will have Mr. Versatility, Malik Hall. In the previous matchup, MSU chose to largely play Edey straight up and double hard off Morton. The strategy largely worked as they held Edey to just 50% from the field (he averages 61%) and limited Purdue's 3 point attempts to 10. On the offensive side of the floor, MSU went to work with mid range jumpers with Tyson Walker leading the way with over 30 points. The question is whether Purdue uses a similar defensive technique against MSU and attacks Michigan State similarly on the offensive side of the ball. Check out our Purdue preseason show here. Go to Nudge Printing for all your MSU apparel and car decals. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

January 26, 2023: In a game where MSU didn't play smoothly offensively against a poor defensive team, they did just enough to squeak out a win over the Hawkeyes. In good news for the Spartans, Malik Hall returned back to the floor and looked like Malik Hall without a bit of rust. He played 25 effective minutes on both the offensive and defensive ends of the floor. Michigan State effectively bottled up Iowa's leading scorer, Kris Murray, holding him to just 11 points on 5-13 shooting and 0-5 from behind the arc. Also, MSU managed to force 10 steals on an Iowa team that rarely turns the ball over. Those stats, along with 8-20 shooting for 3, propelled MSU to a victory over a difficult Iowa team. The win got Michigan State to 6-4 in the first half of the Big Ten schedule which was quite an accomplishment considering all of the injuries they've had throughout the season. Hopefully, with a full complement of players they can get moving again and start piling up some wins as they prepare for a March run. Purdue in West Lafayette is next on the schedule and a rematch with Zach Edey. Be sure to check out Nudge Printing for all your printing needs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

January 24, 2023: Iowa is coming to town and bringing another fantastic Murray brother into the Breslin on Thursday evening. Fran McCaffrey once again has a team with a very good offensive efficiency rating. And... once again they are terrible on defense. Michigan State looks to defend their home court and return to winning ways before heading on the road next Sunday at West Lafayette. Interesting story lines abound in this game. Will Malik Hall return to the court? Patrick McCaffrey? Both players are critical to their team's success and how well and how much they play could decide the game's outcome. Also, will we continue to see a progression at the 5 for MSU in improved play from freshmen Jaxon Kohler and Carson Cooper? Listen to our preseason episode on Iowa here. Check out Nudge Printing for all your printing needs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

January 23, 2023: Rod and Eric introduced 2023 incoming freshman, Gehrig Normand, to the Spartan Nation in this interview. Normand is a 4* recruit, 6'6" shooting guard from the Dallas-Forth Worth, TX area who was the third commit for MSU this summer. Many describe his game as similar to former Spartan, Matt McQuaid, who was from the same area and had sneaky athleticism. McQuaid became a great defender and sharpshooter and was instrumental in MSU's run to the Final Four in 2019. Gehrig tells us about his name, what his game is like, how he is recovering from his injury, and why he chose Michigan State. You can listen to our summer episode about Normand's recruitment here. Check out the video interview on our YouTube channel. Need some Spartan apparel or decals? Head on over to Nudge Printing to get some high quality products. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

January 22, 2023: In a game that MSU controlled for the first 10 minutes, it looked like they might come away with a big road win at Indiana in Assembly Hall. Unfortunately for the Spartans, the Hoosiers caught fire from behind the arc and at the free throw line and were too much. Before the game, there was a lot of discussion for how Michigan State would defend against Indiana's elite center, Trayce Jackson-Davis. Would MSU double or play him straight up. Ultimately, the Spartans did both which both ended up a losing proposition as TJD still ended up with 31 points and Indiana shot 9-16 behind the line. On a bright note for MSU, Jaxon Kohler once again had a decent game offensively and on the boards and largely held his own on the defensive end. There was still no Malik Hall in the game but reports had him practicing lending some hope that he will see the court soon. Perhaps as soon as Iowa on Thursday night. Check out Nudge Printing for all your MSU apparel and car decals. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

January 21, 2023: Now that MSU is back on the the winning track they head down to Bloomington, IN to take on the Indiana Hoosiers who are riding high after two straight wins including an impressive beat down at Illinois. The Hoosiers have been an up and down team this year and have suffered injuries to two starters in Xavier Johnson and Race Thompson. Michigan State seemed to find its shooting stroke again in the last home game and will see if it travels against another veteran team. Malik Hall's prognosis seems to lead every show now as we try to get a handle on whether and when he will play again. It seems to be safe to say that we will see him sooner than later although which game that will be is still up in the air. We certainly don't expect to see him on the court in this one but perhaps Thursday against Iowa. This matchup again offers an interesting strategic question as to how to defend Indiana's most dynamic player, Trayce Jackson-Davis, in the paint. Do you double, dig down, or play him straight up. All set you up for other dangers which is why he is such a great weapon for the Hoosiers. You can listen to our preseason show on Indiana here. Visit our sponsor Nudge Printing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

January 19, 2023: Michigan State ended their 2 game losing streak with a decisive victory over Rutgers on a rainy night in East Lansing 70-57. On a night that might be viewed as a coming out party for Jaxon Kohler who finished with a double double and played the most minutes at the 5 spot, he contributed a lot to MSU's great defensive effort. Rutgers' phenom shooter, Cam Spencer, managed only 1-8 from the 3 point line and 3-14 overall to finish with 8 points. In contrast, MSU was fantastic behind the line burying 12 three pointers on only 22 attempts. The one troubling spot for the Spartans was that they got annihilated on the offensive boards giving up 18 offensive rebounds to the Scarlet Knights who used them to stay close in the game until late. Unfortunately for Rutgers, they also had the ball stolen 9 times in the game especially late where MSU was able to pull away and seal the game. The Breslin Center remains one of only 3 arenas in the Big Ten where Rutgers has still never won. Our Rutgers preseason episode can be listened to here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

January 17, 2023: MSU enters into the game on Thursday against Rutgers on a two game losing streak after dropping close games at Champaign and by one point at home to first place Purdue. Rutgers, however, isn't the usual slouch team that they were in their early days in the Big Ten. The Scarlet Knights are ranked #14 in KenPom and have one of the best defenses in college basketball to challenge MSU. Unfortunately, Malik Hall will again be a no-go for this game as he reaggravated his stress reaction in the left foot and will be sidelined for a few weeks. However, that is good news as it was originally believed that Hall might miss most, if not all, of the remainder of the season when we last had news after the Purdue game. So the Spartans are once again tasked with surviving without Hall. Fortunately (and unlike earlier this season), this time they will have Jaden Akins who helps them immensely on the both sides of the ball. Visit our new sponsor Michigan based Nudge Printing for all your Spartan apparel and decals. The Rutgers Preseason Show can be found here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

January 16, 2023: Zach Edey and the number one offense in America, the Purdue Boilermakers, came to the East Lansing and took on a Michigan State team down one of its veterans due to Malik Hall's injury in the Illinois game. Despite being down a man, MSU almost pulled out the win against a talented Purdue team and even outplayed the Boilers in a number of aspects of the game. It's certainly a game that MSU had a chance to win with a one point lead and only ten seconds to play. Unfortunately, Loyer found Edey in the low blocks where he scored his 32nd points of the game in a short layup. Tyson Walker had a monster game for MSU shooting over 50% from the field and finished with 30 points. The Spartans also managed to outrebound a team that is tops in the country on the offensive glass limiting them to only 26.7% offensive rebounding rate well below their season average. The Spartans will stay home and will face red hot Rutgers who is second in the Big Ten on Thursday. Listen to the Purdue Preseason Show Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

January 14, 2023: Michigan State's seven game win streak was snapped in Champaign on Friday night and the Spartans look to return to their winning ways against a top rated Purdue squad. Per usual, Purdue enters the game with a monster center, 7'4" Zach Edey who is a national player of the year candidate. Edey is a beast scoring in the paint, rebounding offensively, and more than competent on the free throw line. Surprisingly, Purdue is not a lethal team from behind the arc but can you risk doubling Edey and giving the Purdue guards easy looks from outside? The tactical plan to defend this Boilermaker team is fascinating and how Izzo decides to play it is not entirely obvious. Finally, the health of Malik Hall is somewhat in doubt as he did not play the final 7:45 in Champaign after rolling his ankle. Every indication is that he will play but we probably won't know for certain until game day. You can access our preseason show of Purdue here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

January 13, 2023: In a game that Michigan State led for the majority of the first and second half, Illinois proved to be too much at home in a 75-66 win. Illinois uncharacteristicly took care of the basketball and finished the game with only 5 turnovers. They also shot free throws well above their average at 83%. In contrast, MSU failed to hit a single 3 point shot going 0-7 despite surprisingly dominating Illinois on the glass 42-33 (with a 40% offensive rebounding rate. The Spartans now fall to 4-2 in the Big Ten and one game behind the Boilermakers who roll into East Lansing in a few days. Perhaps one of the most important developments in the game was an injury sustained by Malik Hall with 7:45 left in the game where he injured his left foot. Early reports are that he sprained his ankle so it appears that he did not reinjure his stress reaction but whether he is ready to play against Purdue is unknown at this time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

January 11, 2022: The Spartans will take their 7 game winning streak (four in Big Ten play) into Champaign to take on a hot Illinois team. Illinois has won their last two conference games dispatching Wisconsin at home and blasting Nebraska in Lincoln. Illinois features a test for MSU as they have size all over the court which is giving teams fits both offensively inside the arc and on the defensive end. The two things Illinois doesn't do well is shoot the outside shot and hang onto the ball which Michigan State will have to try and exploit. Can MSU use some Illini turnovers and get easy buckets on the break? Can they neutralize Illinois' size on the boards and prevent second chances? You can access our Illinois preview show here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

January 10, 2023: In another Big Ten road test, MSU headed into Madison, Wisconsin to take on the Badgers and try and extend its winning streak to 7 games. In what can only be described as a poised effort, the Spartans were perfect from the floor down the stretch hitting their last 8 field goals and all their free throws to win the game. Wisconsin was down their leading scorer, Tyler Wahl, but got point production from their 7' center Steven Crowl and freshman point guard Connor Essegian to keep the game close. The largest lead of the game was 6 points and the teams battled back and forth behind largely good shooting. MSU had a problem with turnovers with 14 to Wisconsin's 5 but outrebounded the Badgers 33-18. A big key to the victory definitely came at the free throw line where the Spartans hit 16 of 17 to only 6 of 8 for Wisconsin. Our preseason episode on Wisconsin can be found here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

January 8, 2023: Michigan State heads back onto the road and will try to continue its winning streak of six straight and two in Big Ten Play as they head to Madison to take on the Badgers. In an arena that has historically been a house of pain MSU will look to stay in first place in the Big Ten. Rod has stated it a number of times that MSU has a profile that looks more and more like a Wisconsin one which means that both teams will rely on their defense and ability to hit the outside shot. The Spartans struggled hitting wide open shots against Michigan and will look to bounce back on offense outside the arc. For the Wisconsin preseason preview go to www.tffinots.com/Wisconsin2022 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

January 7, 2023: In an ugly offensive game, MSU pulled out a win at the Breslin Center 59-53 over rival Michigan. Neither team could hit their shots as the Spartans launched at least 3 wide open air balls for 3. The only thing worse than MSU's outside shooting was Michigan's who shot 15% on 3-20. It was a game where MSU controlled by double digits halfway through the first half until late in the game. This was a very good defensive performance by the Spartans who showed that their veteran backcourt will continue to be an asset throughout the Big Ten season. Also, Malik Hall looked more of himself in offense, defense, and conditioning as he logged over 20 minutes and contributed on both ends of the court. UM Preview Episode Here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

January 5, 2022: Rivalry week is officially here now that MSU has dispatched Nebraska and awaits a matchup at home with cross state rival, Michigan. The Wolverines have struggled at times in the non-conference schedule but are in first place of the Big Ten with a 3-0 mark after defeating Penn State on Wednesday. Last year, the teams split their series but if either team has title hopes, a series sweep would be loom huge for their chances to take the League. There are so many matchup questions with this game: can Sissoko neutralize Dickinson and/or can Hoggard and MSU's guards exploit Dickinson's struggles guarding on pick and rolls? Will the Spartans be able to rebound and defend at the levels they did against Nebraska? Finally, can Michigan State continue their outstanding 3 point shooting? In what looks to be an intense contest on Saturday with so much at stake and the school rivalry at a more intense level than usual this has all the makings for a war. The difference might just be which team is able to maintain their poise and channel the energy in a useful manner. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

January 3, 2023: Michigan State welcomed in the new year with a decisive 74-56 victory over the visiting Nebraska Cornhuskers. In what is probably MSU's best complete game since the early season, they coasted out to a 22 point half time lead behind suffocating defense and a fantastic first half scoring effort from Tyson Walker (16 points). MSU had one of their best offensive rebounding efforts collecting over 40% of their misses and prevented a good offensive rebounding team from getting anything going at only 25%. A number of Spartans other than Tyson Walker had good games including Joey Hauser with a second straight double double, AJ Hoggard with 9 assists and only one turnover, and Jaxon Kohler who finally got going offensively with a 5-5 10 point effort. Listen to the Nebraska Preseason Preview Here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

January 1, 2023: As we enter a new year, Michigan State begins the Big Ten campaign in full with 18 games and a march to a potential championship. However, there are no easy wins in the Big Ten this year and protecting home court is a necessity after already losing their first to Northwestern. Fortunately, the Spartans will be full strength with a limited minutes Malik Hall as they host a feisty squad from Lincoln, NE. This will be the last game without the Izzone so MSU will have to bring its own energy and not look past the Cornhuskers to their matchup against the Wolverines on Saturday. The first step in a Big Ten Championship begins Tuesday and if Michigan State has any serious designs on challenging for the title they need to take care of business. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

December 30, 2022: In what is the most significant development for anyone with hopes of MSU making some sort of run for a Big Ten title or NCAA tournament Final Four, the return of Malik Hall back on to the court was a big one. Now that Jaden Akins is almost back to where we hoped he would be starting the season, Hall played limited minutes but looked as if he hadn't ever stopped playing. Malik Hall had 11 points on 3-4 shooting with 2-2 from 3 and 3-4 at the line in only 18 minutes of play. Perhaps even more importantly than his scoring was his presence on defense and just as a steadying force on both ends of the court as he made the Spartans so much more difficult to score against and defend with his versatility. Also of note were double-doubles from AJ Hoggard (11 points, 10 assists) and Joey Hauser (14 points, 12 rebounds). An all around solid game for Michigan State as they prepare to re-enter Big Ten play on Tuesday with Nebraska. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

December 29, 2022: Michigan State has its last non-conference tune up before Big Ten play resumes with the new year as they welcome in the Buffalo Bulls from the MAC. Buffalo has had a recent history of success with multiple NCAA tournament wins under coaches Bobby Hurley and Nate Oats. However, this year is clearly a rebuilding year with them holding a 6-6 record (2 against non-Division I opponents) and no notable wins. Michigan State hopes to continue getting healthier as Jaden Akins returns more to full strength and Malik Hall is expected to play after being laid up for 3 weeks with a stress reaction to his foot. MSU's defense has suffered without Hall in the lineup and the hope is that he can get back up to full speed in a few weeks and perhaps put the Spartans' defense back in the top 30 again. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

December 27, 2022: The first commitment to MSU's 2023 class was PG Jeremy Fears Jr. from Joliet, Illinois. Fears is the #7 ranked point guard and #37 overall player according to On3 recruiting rankings for the 2023 class. After playing at LaLumiere Academy last year, Jeremy elected to return to his high school and play with his younger brother, Jeremiah, for what might be his last chance to play on the same team. Jeremy discussed what the recruitment was like with MSU, why he picked the Spartans, what it was like playing on Team USA in international ball and much more in this interview. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

December 26, 2022: Coming into this season, there were uncertainties everywhere within the Big Ten teams. A lot of teams had almost complete turnovers from last year with incoming Now that we've had a few Big Ten games played and have watched most of the non-conference season we figured it would be helpful to look back at our predictions and handicap them. Rod goes through the surprises from Nebraska to Indiana. He feels even better about his placement of Indiana at number one yet not winning the Big Ten. Also, what's going on in Champaign and Ann Arbor? All that and more in this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

December 23, 2022: In a big thank you to our fans we held an ask me anything session where we answered questions about MSU, what happens when Izzo retires, what are the best basketball books, how do we pull together the show, and who exactly is in Rod's avatar photo. This session and the success of the show are due entirely to how great our listeners are. If you want to support the show go to our website or rate and review the show on your podcast player. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

December 21, 2022: The Spartans faced perennial pest, Oakland University and beat them for their 21st straight win against the Horizon League team. Although it was an uninspiring game, Michigan State showed some glimpses of smooth offense, transition game, and connected defense. Head Coaches Tom Izzo and Greg Kampe both decided to wear ugly sweaters and at times their team's games matched their garb. Joey Hauser led the way for the Spartans in scoring with 16 and was augmented by a career high 15 from Jaden Akins who also played a career high 25 minutes coming off a preseason injury. Overall, MSU shot 49.5% from the field and 45.5% from 3 in a game that was close in the first half until they went on a 30-5 run extending over half time into the early second half to put the game away. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

December 18, 2022: Michigan State's players are done with finals and will prepare for their perennial matchup against the Grizzlies from Oakland University. Head Coach Greg Kampe usually brings in very competitive teams into the contest. Oftentimes, Oakland has a pro or very high level player. This year, is not like others. Oakland is struggling this year coming in at 2-9 (we recorded before their game against Boise St.) and have one of the 5 worst defenses in all of college basketball. Almost as bad as their overall defense is their ability to rebound the ball where they are terrible on both sides of the ball. This is certainly a game where MSU might be able to get some things going on the glass. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

December 15, 2022: Assistant Coach Thomas Kelley joined the Michigan State staff this June after Dwayne Stephens left to take over the Western Michigan program. Kelley played for MSU from 1994-1999 under both Jud Heathcote and Tom Izzo. After playing professionally in Europe for 15 seasons he returned to East Lansing to take a graduate assistant position in 2016. Although Kelley never played in the NBA, he has years of experience playing as a professional where the pressures were different than in the United States. Aside from the differences in rules, experiencing the fans was totally unique where he tells stories of playing with stands full of lit fireworks and the need for plexiglass to protect the opposing players. He feels that many of the lessons he learned about being a pro translate into things he can bring as a coach with young players today. We also discuss what it was like coaching on the aircraft carrier, the things most important for the team in this light stretch of games before January, and why being a player led team is so important. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

December 10, 2022: Brown came calling to East Lansing to serve as the book end to MSU's brutal November schedule where they traveled over 10,000 miles and played 11 games with very little rest in between. Fortunately for the Spartans, the Brown Bears didn't have a ton of rest (like most of their previous opponents) and were able to prevent the Ivy team from getting anything going offensively the entire game. Brown came into the game averaging about half their shots from behind the 3 point arc but managed a third of their shots for 3 and hit only 20% of them. The Bears also came into the game as the top defensive rebounding team in the country at only 18.9% but surrendered nearly 33% of MSU's misses on the boards as the Spartans showed a little vintage play tonight. Also of note was that AJ Hoggard played another great game and Joey Hauser led the team in scoring with 22 points and personally surpassed 1000 career points. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

December 8, 2022: Michigan State returns home after a successful trip to Happy Valley with a quick turnaround again but this time their opponent won't have a rest advantage. The Brown Bears of the Ivy League visit on Saturday coming off a tight one point win over in-state rival, Rhode Island and carry a five game winning streak into the Breslin. Led by MSU assistant coach Doug Wojcik's son, Paxson, the Brown Bears will look to pull off an upset over the Spartans. Despite MSU being a 16 point favorite, there is a lot for the Spartans to work on in this game. They will need to carry over their solid defense and improved play from AJ Hoggard to win this game in a comfortable fashion. But rest assured, MSU will be tested by a Brown team that can score from behind the arc and leads the nation in defensive rebounding allowing only an 18.9% offensive rebounding percentage from opponents. Mercifully, after this game MSU will have 11 days rest before their next game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

December 7, 2022: Michigan State got the game it needed from AJ Hoggard as he led the Spartans to a 67-58 win over Penn State in Happy Valley. Hoggard led the team in scoring with 23 points and 6 rebounds on 6-6 clutch free throw shooting and 1-2 from 3. Joey Hauser chipped in with 12 points and 15 rebounds. Most impressive with the Spartans' defensive effort was limiting Penn State to only 9 three point attempts in the second half after giving up 7-18 shooting in the first. By the end of the second half, the Nittany Lions were left to try and catch up to MSU by going inside and away from their game. In addition to recapping the game, coach Garland gave us some insight into whether MSU has made a strategic decision to de-emphasize offensive rebounding, how to improve shooting, and why the team wasn't as successful beating Michigan until they stopped focusing so much on the one game. Also, you still have a few days left to order t-shirts before the order goes out on December 9. To order, go to https://www.tffinots.com/merchandise to see the shirt and order yours today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

December 5, 2022: Michigan State heads into Happy Valley to take on the Penn St. Nittany Lions in their second Big Ten matchup of the season. Penn State is 6-2 going into this Big ten opener for them despite being a team without a lot of size. The Nittany Lions have relied heavily on the 3 point shot with over half their field goal attempts coming from behind the arc. The Spartans will again be without Malik Hall but fortunately, Jaden Akins seems to be ready to go. Can the Spartans match the fierce energy Penn State has been bringing this season and contain their outside shooting? MSU really struggled against Northwestern off ball screen and they will likely be tested again with this guard heavy team. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

December 4, 2022: Michigan State for the second straight year drops a game at home to the Northwestern Wildcats. This time it is the season opener and came at the hands of an inability to stop the 'Cats on defense. Northwestern shot 21-24 from the free throw line to hang on and defeat the Spartans. One positive note was the return of Jaden Akins from injury who got to start the game but was clearly limited at times with his conditioning. AJ Hoggard came off the bench and played one of his better games but it wasn't enough as the Northwestern guards of Boo Bouie and Chase Audige proved too much for MSU's perimeter defense. Next up for Michigan State is a date on Wednesday at State College against Penn State. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

December 2, 2022: Michigan State prepares for its Big Ten opener against the Northwestern Wildcats at the Breslin Center Sunday night. After going 5-3 in the extremely difficult early non-conference stretch versus high level competition (and down two of their best players) MSU will attempt to begin its assault on another Big Ten title for Tom Izzo. The Wildcats come in struggling on offense ranked #174 in KenPom but survive on the defensive side of the ball by mucking things up. They rank first in 2-point defense and #25 overall with a strategy of clearly keeping games low scoring. MSU will try to move the ball in transition and crash the offensive boards. This also might be one of the rare games where they have a turnover advantage over another team (when is the last season we said that?) Expectations are that Jaden Akins will suit up and play some minutes while Malik Hall rests his foot for another week or two. Of some interest is the probable addition of Keon Coleman to the team once again and discussion that he might play a bigger role than we anticipated. This is somewhat helped by the injuries and the fact that he will have about an extra month with the team this season since the football team didn't make a bowl game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.