Michigan St vs New Mexico St: Preview

Team Previews: #5 Michigan St  --  #12 New Mexico St

Vegas Odds: Michigan St by 13   Bet at bodog

Why NMSU will win: 

The Aggies come into the Dance on a hot note, winning the WAC Tournament. They have plenty of offensive firepower, led by the backcourt of Jahmar Young and Jonathan Gibson. The frontcourt also has three double-figure scorers, namely Troy Gillenwater and Wendell McKines.

Aggie to Watch:

Jahmar Young, G- 20.5 ppg, 3.5 rpg, 3.0 apg

The talented guard hit a number of clutch shots for the Aggies throughout the season, and he will be the go-to-guy again for New Mexico State. The Baltimore native scored in single-digits just once this season, and he will have to come up with a big game against the Spartans.

Why Michigan St will win:

Tom Izzo is a tournament-tested coach who tends to get the most out of his players at the right time. Kalin Lucas is one of the best point guards in the country, and Raymar Morgan and Draymond Green are solid down low. The Spartans have been here before and don't want to go home early.
 

Spartan to Watch:

Kalin Lucas, G - 15 ppg, 4 apg

Lucas is the key for Michigan State. He needs to control tempo and not allow New Mexico State to start dictating pace. Lucas will also likely take over late in the game if it's close.
 

How it will go down:

If Michigan State had drawn a better No. 12 seed, the Spartans could be a popular upset pick. However, New Mexico State was likely overseeded at a No. 12. With that said, the Aggies have the offensive weapons to stay in the game and keep it close. However, Michigan State's defense and experience will be the difference.

Betting Pick: New Mexico St

Real Pick: Michigan St