The Three Strengths MSU Utilized to Beat Colgate

MSU struggled to connect at the free-throw line, but the team got to the line more than the Raiders. 

The Spartans got to the basket and drew fouls, which will go a long way as they take on tougher opponents. MSU only shot 65 percent from the line, but getting there as often as it did is what matters in this case. 

Colgate only shot six free throws in the game, and while the Spartans won’t always shoot six times the free throws of their opponent, winning the free-throw discrepancy will go a long way. 

Offensive rebounds 

MSU gave itself more chances on offense by pulling down a helpful amount of offensive boards. 

The Spartans grabbed 19 rebounds on the offensive end of the floor compared to Colgate’s three, seven of which were from big man Jaxon Kohler. If the team missed a shot, someone would often be there to grab the board and give them another shot to score. 

The Spartans do not have a ton of size, but they work hard on the glass, which is a staple of Izzo teams. Expect that to remain a strength, even when the Spartans play tougher teams than Colgate, which is good in its own right. 

Forcing turnovers 

MSU forced Colgate to turn the ball over 13 times, which led to eight points.

Coen Carr threw down a few exceptional dunks off those turnovers, while Jeremy Fears Jr. stole five balls. The Spartans were flying around on defense, another Izzo staple. 

MSU will take on tough offensive teams, so forcing them into turnovers will be a key way to string together a few more victories in November.

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