Spartans and the Big Ten....

The Spartans have lost 2 games in a row.. Wisconsin and Illinois.. Have to say I’m not to surprised.. the way they  have been playing, I’m not shocked.  They do not seem to be playing like the Spartans are capable of.  Don’t know what the issue is.. but surely its not the fact that Kalin is out.  Could it be chemistry, could it be focus and preparation?  They have been slowly morphing into a Team that might be complacent and not hungry enough….

Seems to be a trend playing down to the competition, and not being able to start strong and have the killer instinct to squash a opponent and keep on going. 

Don’t get me wrong, they’re still #1 in the Big Ten, but have surely lost the #1 seed in the Dance… This team has talent, and the skill sets and they should not be making ridiculous sloppy passes, and hurried shots that end up in empty passions.. 

There has been a couple consistent players.. Draymond Green, who is SOLID off the bench in all year, and  with a double Double against Illinois. Then there is Mr.  Kalin Lucas who unfortunately is hurt… 

I expected this year to see Kalin, but also expected to see  Raymar, Durrell, and Delvon take leadership roles….I assumed wrong…  Recently the group’s leadership seems to be sketchy at best…. These guys have to Step up their game,  they have to take it to the next level for the Spartans to win the Big Ten and go deep in to the March Madness… With Kalin out, the best floor leader is Draymond…

Take a look at a couple telling stats form the last 2 games:
Turnovers:
MSU 13 – Wisconsin 5
MSU 18 – Illinois 10
Shooting:  MSU 37% - Wisconsin 51%
Fouls:  MSU 19 – Illinois 13

On top of this, I don’t see anyone playing a successful 5 for the Spartans. Center seems to be sorely lacking.. Nix or Sherman has to really step up for us to maintain First place in the Big Ten and possibly get a 1 – 2 seed in March..  They can. But will they ??

I expected more…!

This week Purdue comes to town on Tuesday, and Spartans visit Penn State Saturday..   I don’t have a clue as to how they can prepare for this one without Kalin and a strong 5. But, lets hope they have the mid season slump out of their system…

Purdue Game is forecasted to be a Whiteout…
And time grab the 2010 Big Ten mantel once and for all..

Sparty ON