:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/57814515/usa_today_10448277.0.jpg)
Michigan State wrapped up Challenge play with a thorough trouncing of Notre Dame. The final score of 81-63 reflects a better second half by Notre Dame but cannot relay the thoroughness of Michigan State’s dominance.
They made #5 Notre Dame look totally inadequate. In particular, though he finished with 17 points, six rebounds and four blocks, we’ve never seen Bonzie Colson look so outclassed. Like the rest of his team, he was simply dominated by Michigan State.
The ACC finished 11-3, which is ridiculous, but fairly meaningless. No one will care in a couple of weeks.
As for Michigan State, look what the Spartans have done since losing to Duke (and if you remember, it was a very tight game until quite late): you could fairly toss out Stoney Brook and DePaul as being essentially meaningless. UConn still counts though and what Michigan State did to UNC and then to Notre Dame is eye opening.
You could argue - most would and have - that Duke is the best team in the country and of course Duke did beat the Spartans and that counts for a lot.
You could just as easily argue that Michigan State is the best team. And if you’re looking for the team that plays best as a unit, there’s no question that Michigan State is better than Duke right now.
That could change by March and we can’t think of a team that has a better upside than Duke.
A Final Four rematch? It could definitely happen.
The ACC dominated this year, but in the long run, the Big Ten is going to be fine for one simple reason: the A.D.’s have been making smart hires.
Look down the list:
- Chris Collins, Northwestern
- Archie Miller, Notre Dame
- Brad Underwood, Illinois
- Richard Pitino, Minnesota
- Chris Holtmann, Ohio State
- Steve Pikiell, Rutgers
Half the league’s teams are now coached by young, dynamic and rising coaches. Keep an eye out because most of these guys are going to great.
- Michigan State handles Notre Dame for 18-point win in top-5 matchup
- Michigan State puts on a show, topples Notre Dame, 81-63
- Winston, Langford Lead Michigan State Past Notre Dame, 81-63
- Michigan State's supporting cast separating Spartans from opponents
- Couch: 3 quick takes on Michigan State's 81-63 win over Notre Dame
If you're going to shop Amazon for iPhone X or accessories please start here and help DBR
Check out our October '17 t-shirt! || Drop us a line