3 in a Row!

January 17, 2012 - Michigan 60 - Michigan State 59 (photo from UMHoops.com)

John Beilein has Izzo's number...or perhaps a better game plan over their last three meetings. Michigan's win over the Spartans was a result of The Wolverines's momentum  control during most of the game, realized primarily by playing quality defense, especially during the last two minutes of the game.  

Michigan shot and played well in the first half, with the exception of Tim Hardaway, Jr.  Their 3-point shooting fizzled out in the second half, but they redeemed themselves by rebounding missed shots and forcing turnovers.  Zach Novak provided the senior leadership, and made two crucial baskets towards the end of the game.  

Trey Burke's play ignited in the 2nd half...he is definitely going to be a special player.  He looked great on the point, and outplayed the several MSU players that tried to check him throughout the game.  Hardaway had a nice second half, highlighted by his double-clutch dunk early in the 2nd half.  

Great to see Michigan resident Mike Tirico call this one.  He talked up the new Chrisler Center, made some nice references to the rivalry, mentioned the Michigan high schools where some of the players came from...another strong call from MT.  

The new Chrisler Center looks good.  Perhaps the new practice facility will be the shot in the arm the program needs to compete with the big boys .  They still need to do something to improve the lighting in the upper bowl in the arena.  The lower lighting looks great and the noise factor is better...it would be even better if they lighten up that upper level.

Beilein has quietly and modestly turned the college basketball tide in this state with 3 straight wins against Izzo's squad.  He will be the first to say that this is just "a conference win" and they need to repeat this effort against the likes of Purdue and that team from Ohio....but I am sure after Izzo's comments from a few days ago, he is quietly celebrating this victory a little more than he normally would.    

It is nice to see a competitive match up again between MSU and Michigan.  We have not seen anything like this between these two in this sport in years.  This match up is turning back into the rivalry this needs to be.   I anticipate their next meeting at Breslin will be just as exciting.   It certainly is fun to look forward to watching this rivalry again... especially if the games continue to be like the one they had tonight!