Backcourt: The Spartan offense runs through senior guard Kalin Lucas, and in the last five games, Lucas averaged 22.8 points per game, a career-high stretch for him. Junior guard Durrell Summers has been inconsistent, but has averaged 13.2 points and 4.3 rebounds per game. The Buckeyes have four guards who play at least 28 minutes per game. The versatility of the Buckeyes’ guards gives them an edge.
Edge: Ohio State
Frontcourt: The Ohio State frontcourt, and offense, revolves around Jared Sullinger, who is averaging 18 points and 10.3 rebounds per game. Other than Sullinger, the Buckeyes only play two other forwards who average at least six minutes per game. The Spartans have five forwards who could see playing time against Sullinger. Although junior Delvon Roe is questionable with a knee injury, junior Draymond Green is coming off a triple-double. The Spartans plan to use a variety of options to bother Sullinger.
Edge: Push
Bench: This isn’t much of a matchup. Although MSU is known for playing a lot of players, the Buckeyes are the opposite. Five Ohio State players play at least 28 minutes, compared to three Spartans. Nine MSU players play at least eight minutes. How effective the Spartan big men on the bench will be is a question mark, but better than the lack of Buckeyes who come off the bench.
Edge: MSU
Coaching: As with most matchups, MSU has a big edge in coaching. Although Ohio State head coach Thad Matta has been successful, largely is because of the tremendous recruiting classes he brings in. As far as in-game coaching goes, Tom Izzo’s accolades speak for themselves.
Edge: MSU
Intangibles: The Buckeyes no longer have as big a target on their backs after Wisconsin ended their undefeated campaign this weekend and Value City Arena is scheduled for a rare sellout, which will be a boost for the Buckeyes.
Edge: Ohio State
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