Couch: 3 Takeaways From MSU's 77-69 Loss

Nuigalway Admin

You need 2 min read

·

Post on Nov 13, 2024

40 visitor like this post

Share

Couch: 3 Takeaways from MSU's 77-69 Loss

The Michigan State Spartans fell to the Purdue Boilermakers on Tuesday night, dropping their record to 14-10 overall and 7-7 in the Big Ten. While the score may not reflect the entire game's narrative, there were key takeaways from the loss that Coach Tom Izzo and his team will need to consider moving forward.

1. The Rebounding Battle Was Crucial

Purdue dominated the boards, pulling down 43 rebounds to MSU's 29. This disparity was a key factor in the Boilermakers' victory. The Spartans were outrebounded by 14, a significant margin that allowed Purdue to control the pace and generate second-chance opportunities. The lack of rebounding prowess allowed Purdue to capitalize on missed shots and extend possessions, while MSU struggled to make the most of their own offensive opportunities.

2. Turnovers Continued to Be a Major Issue

Michigan State turned the ball over 16 times against Purdue, leading to 16 Boilermaker points. This continued struggle with turnovers has been a recurring theme for the Spartans this season, and it's a major concern for Coach Izzo. These turnovers are often unforced, and the Spartans need to prioritize ball security to improve their offensive efficiency.

3. The Spartans Showed Resilience and Grit

Despite the loss, the Spartans displayed impressive resilience and determination throughout the game. They battled back from a significant deficit in the second half, showing a fighting spirit that has become a trademark of Coach Izzo's teams. While the result wasn't in their favor, this mental toughness and ability to overcome adversity are positive signs for the Spartans as they look to finish the season strong.

Looking Ahead

The Spartans will need to address these areas of concern if they want to make a strong run in the Big Ten tournament. The rebounding disparity needs to be significantly reduced, and the Spartans must find a way to cut down on turnovers. The good news is that the team displayed a willingness to fight and that's a foundation to build upon. The Spartans are capable of making a strong run, and Coach Izzo will undoubtedly be looking for his team to learn from this loss and make the necessary adjustments. The upcoming games will be critical in determining the Spartans' trajectory for the rest of the season.