Both these teams play a similar style of muck it up, grind it out, rock fight type of slow play. Even though the Bulldogs had the better record this season, the Spartans did play a tough strength of schedule so they are battle tested. Both teams' strength is on defense, Michigan State defends the 3 better while the Bulldogs defend the 2 or the interior a little better. Michigan State may of had a disappointing season, but they ended the season on some strength, winning a few games and keeping their loss to Purdue respectable. It's March, it's Izzo, they are in this tournament whether the public likes it or not. Though betters will gravitate towards the Bulldogs because they got hot in spots, they did fizzle out at the end of the season which makes this matchup ideal for Michigan State. This is a team they can play and beat as the Bulldogs struggle on offense away from home. Michigan does have the better overall talent and depth too and have players who can step in off the bench. They have the better, heavily experienced coach, a coach who is 14-1 straight up in first round openers in the NCAA Tournament. The players are more seasoned and have been in this spot many times. The difference in this game will be the coaching because that is what Izzo does best when its March! Mack can't stand in front of that.

The Spartans are 1-0 ATS this season as a neutral court favorite or pick. The Spartans are 7-3 ATS this season after a game where they made 78% of their free throws or better. The Spartans are 2-0 ATS in the last few seasons in the first round of the NCAA tournament. The Bulldogs are 4-4 ATS this season when the line is +3 to -3. The Bulldogs are 1-3 ATS this season after playing 2 consecutive games as an underdog. The Bulldogs are 2-2 ATS this season when seeded 5 to 8 in the NCAA tournament.

Best bet: take Michigan State on the moneyline.