Michigan State vs. Ole Miss: How to watch Tom Izzo's Spartans shoot for Elite Eight
Offensive rebounds, turnovers and 3-pointers are worth paying attention to when Michigan State takes on Ole Miss in the Sweet 16 on Friday. Ole Miss is the smallest team left in the field and faces a Michigan State squad ranked in the top 20 in offensive rebounding percentage, according to KenPom.
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The Spartans are in the top 150 in offensive turnover percentage but rarely turn teams over on defense. They are 245th in defensive turnover percentage and 322nd in steal percentage. This isn't a major concern; the Spartans are fifth in defense and No. 1 at guarding the 3. They don't force turnovers, but they sure defend.
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This bodes well for the Rebels, though, who rank third in offensive turnover percentage.
Ole Miss isn't the deepest team, but it has six players who average at least 10 points per game.
When it comes to 3s, Michigan State doesn't shoot them well (31 percent), but will have an opportunity with how Ole Miss' defense is set up. The Rebels typically pack the paint and allow the 47th highest 3-point rate in the country. Shots will be available, the Spartans just have to make them.
There are eight high-level guards in this game, with each team having four. Which quartet will make the biggest plays to send its squad to the Elite Eight?
This matchup can also be streamed on the NCAA March Madness Live app and Paramount+.
Streaming and Betting/Odds links in this article are provided by partners of The Athletic. Restrictions may apply. The Athletic maintains full editorial independence. Partners have no control over or input into the reporting or editing process and do not review stories before publication.
(Photo of Jeremy Fears Jr. and Tom Izzo: Michael Reaves / Getty Images)
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