5* BIG TEN TUESDAY NIGHT PRIME TIME LOCKDOWN

Michigan State vs. Michigan, 01/17/2012 19:00 EDT, Score: 59 - 60

Point Spread: -1/-105 Michigan State

Sportsbook: 5Dimes

Result: Loss

The Spartans will be out for blood after losing both games against Michigan last season, and that has me loading up on Michigan State to win this game. Especially considering the fact that Michigan State just lost their last game at Northwestern. That loss to Northwestern is nothing to worry about, as the coaches and players were likely looking ahead to this game.

Michigan State steps up their game when the level of competition is raised. They are 10-3 ATS (+6.7 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season and 5-1 ATS in their last 6 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600!

Michigan simply relies too much on the outside shot.The Spartans are going to contest those shots and really make it hard for the Wolverines to get a rhythm offensively. Michigan State is allowing opposing teams to shoot just 30% from 3-point range in road games this season, and you can bet the defensive intensity will be at its highest of the season in this rivalry game.

That fact that the oddsmakers set the line at just 1-point, makes this an easy play for me. It's unlikely Michigan State wins this game in a blowout, but they are clearly the better team and have a lot to play for. BET THE SPARTANS -1