Michigan State vs. Northeastern: College Basketball Game Preview, Prediction, TV Schedule

By Taylor Sturm
MSU Basketball
Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

TV Schedule: Saturday, Dec. 19, 12:30 p.m. ET, NBC Sports

Arena: Matthews Arena, Boston, MA

Line: Michigan State (-9)

 

The No. 1 ranked Michigan State Spartans survived their matchup with the Florida Gators 56-52, but will be fairly confident they can remain undefeated at least until their Jan. 23 showdown with the Maryland Terrapins.

Next up for Michigan State is a trip to Boston to face off with the quietly talented Northeastern Huskies, who have already proven this season that they are more than capable of pulling off big upsets.

At first glance, you might be confused at why the 7-3 Spartans are only a nine point favorite on the road against a team from the CAA. One look at Northeastern’s schedule, however, and you will understand exactly why.

The Huskies are the favorite to win the CAA, as well as boast wins over the Miami Hurricanes and the Harvard Crimson. Miami was ranked No. 15 in the country before they faced Northeastern, and the Huskies pulled off the upset on the road, 78-77. Two of their three losses have come by just one possession, and the third came by two possessions. This team is deep, talented and could arguably be the most dangerous mid-major team in the country when the 2016 NCAA Tournament swings around.

That being said, the Huskies are not pulling off this upset. Sure, Northeastern may have the best chance at knocking off Michigan State of any team the Spartans face until mid-January, but Michigan State is the No. 1 team in the nation for a reason. Do not be surprised if this game is a lot closer than most Michigan State fans expect, but Denzel Valentine and Co. get it done on the road and head back to East Lansing with a win.

Prediction: Michigan State 75, Northeastern 68

Taylor Sturm is a Featured Writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @TSturmRS, like him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.

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