Even though Michigan (10-16 overall, 4-11 Big Ten) is having a down year - losing 10 of its last 13 games - MSU head coach Tom Izzo is convinced the struggling Wolverines will step up their play Saturday in an attempt to spoil No. 3 MSU’s chances of a fourth straight Big Ten title.

“To think that they are not going to be ready to play against us is ridiculous,” said Izzo about the game, which will also honor five Spartan seniors in their last home contest. “I really expect a tough game. I’m sure they would love to set us back at home in front of our crowd.”

Guards Charlie Bell, Mike Chappell, Brandon Smith, David Thomas and forward Andre Hutson will all be honored with their families before the 4:30 p.m. tip-off. The group has won a conference record 110 career games.

A win Saturday against its rivals at Breslin Student Events Center will guarantee MSU (23-3, 12-3) at least a share of the Big Ten title. The Spartans can earn the title outright with a win and an Illinois loss at Minnesota on Sunday.

One player that has shined in U-M’s murky season is forward LaVell Blanchard, who had a game-high 29 points and 13 rebounds in a losing effort against Northwestern on Wednesday.

Thomas said it will be a challenge to defend Blanchard’s solid all-around play.

“He’s a very talented player who can do a lot of different things on the floor,” he said. “We’re going to have to really box him out on the boards and find a way to shut him down.”

In last year’s season finale, former MSU great Mateen Cleaves gave the Spartan block “S” a proud smooch after his final game at home.

But Hutson said he wasn’t sure what type of honorable gesture he will give after hearing his name over the loudspeaker at Breslin for the last time.

“It will probably be more of a spontaneous thing,” he said.

“I really haven’t thought about that, I have just really focused on getting this win and winning another championship. The thought of doing that a fourth-straight time has constantly been on my mind the last couple of days.”