Will Michigan State Make the NCAA Tourney This Year?
Tom Izzo became head coach of the Michigan State Spartans when I was pretty young, so I really don’t remember a time when MSU didn’t make it to the NCAA Tournament. But, that time might be here. As a MSU graduate, I don’t want to admit it. But, it’s true. After losing two games we were favored, by far, to win last week, MSU is looking at a tough road to make it to the tourney. So, will Michigan State overcome their recent obstacles and be in the NCAA Tourney?
I’m pretty shocked. Many put this team in the top 10 in the NCAA at the start of this year. What happened? Well, we lost games. And we lost games that we should have won. But, it’s not over for Sparty. The team just has some work left to do to get that NCAA Tournament bid.
The good news is that most analysts definitely think the Spartans will be among the 68 NCAA Tournament teams. Whenever I see predictions online, they’re sitting at about the No. 9 or even No. 8 seed. Maybe it’s their heritage that’s giving them the pull. But, whatever it is, people still think Sparty is on top. Next up, the Spartans take on No. 2 Purdue on Saturday (March 2), which they’ll probably lose. Then, they have a rematch against a very good Northwestern team on Wednesday (March 6). Finally, they wrap up the season playing Indiana on March 10. Then, the Big Ten Tournament.
To guarantee a bid, Michigan State likely has to win two more games, either during the regular season or Big Ten tournament. It’s a frustrating thing, since the team has lost so many “sure bet” games, especially towards the end of this season. But, this is where things stand. Let’s hope Izzo and the crew get things together in the next few very important weeks. Find the March Madness schedule here. Also, reach out to me with your thoughts here.
The 5 Greatest Stadiums In College Football
Rose Bowl Stadium - UCLA
The iconic Rose Bowl (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
You can’t talk about iconic stadiums and not mention Rose Bowl Stadium. It’s basically the epitome of iconic stadiums. Then, you add the mountain backdrop and it really can’t get much better than that. Personally, I’ve never been but it’s high up on my bucket list.
Tiger Stadium - Louisiana State University
This is Tiger Stadium. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)
Tigers may hate cinnamon, but they love football. LSU’s Tiger Stadium is one of the best environments in all of college football. That place gets loud! No team wants to come into Death Valley. I mean, certainly they call it that for a reason, right?
Neyland Stadium - University of Tennessee
Neyland Stadium can get rocking! (Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images)
There’s something about Neyland Stadium that stands out and separates from the pack. Maybe it’s the checkered end zone. Perhaps it’s the crowd in their orange and white. The music? So much to like about games at Tennessee. Whenever I see one of their night games on TV, I can’t lie I get a little jealous. Good for those students who get to enjoy game days there.
Kinnick Stadium - University of Iowa
Gotta respect Kinnick Stadium. (Photo by Matthew Holst/Getty Images)
It’s Iowa, how exciting can it be? I understand that perspective. However, what makes Kinnick one of the best stadiums in the country has nothing to do with their field or play. I love how the children’s hospital overlooks the field. What an amazing thought. It gives the kids an opportunity to watch the games, and that can mean everything. I think it could be one of my favorite traditions in all of sports.
Every game, at the end of the first quarter, the filled stadium and sidelines turn their attention to UI Stead Family Children’s Hospital and wave to the children. Watch it sometime. It will melt your heart…and I say that as a fan of another Big Ten school. Good on you, Iowa!
Michigan Stadium - University of Michigan
Welcome to The Big House (Photo by Tom Pidgeon/Getty Images)
You had to have seen this coming, right? I’m a proud Spartan and even I can’t deny the greatest that is The Big House. Not only is it the largest stadium in the United States (and entire Western Hemisphere), it’s the third-largest stadium in all of the world! It’s truly a sight to behold.
