Spartans Teach scUM A Lesson, 54-42, Improve to 20-4

(2009 Feb 10)--Tears of joy. Watching Michigan State completely crush the Yellow Bellies, 54-42, with their bruising defense today was purely aromatic heaven. Freaking Travis Walton is BIG TEN DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR -- if you think otherwise, you are higher than a kite. Walton, as predicted by the ES (see below), completely schooled Manny Harris, and shut him down to 7 points on a pathetic 2-10 shooting. Overall, the Beilein Steamroller acted more like a broken down jalopy, hitting on just 35% of its shots and just 4 of 24 threes (17%). That's right, who is your daddy? The only guy that had any success was Dion Sims (18 pts), but one guy does not make a team. It was MSU DEFENSE THAT KICKED YOUR ASS. AND UNTIL YOU FIGURE IT OUT, YOU WILL ALWAYS BE A LOSER.

First: it was GREAT getting phone calls from around the nation, with EXCITEMENT about how good we really are. The usually cautious Chock in SFO: "I wuz really impressed with our defense. With a few beers in me, I now think we really have a shot. Walton is the shit. Whenever you see a guy with the most sweat, drippping off his uni - he's the man" And, listening to Carter in Boston: "Yeah, we're really good." My brother in Chicago said, "the best defense I've seen since we won the title." Damn, if that ain't fine analysis!

Second: Michigan State's defense CRUSHED Michigan tonight. Any sliver of an opening for a shot was completely contested by the Spartans all night long. The only reason why scUM was close was MSU's scoring was off-base: Summers with 8 pts and Suton with 7 pts were well below average, as was the teams' 42% FG rate. But MSU hit 79% of its free throws, and outrebounded scUM 30-22. All in a great effort.

Third: WE KICKED THE ASS OF THE "CHAMPIONS OF THE WEST" FOR THE 16TH OF THE LAST 19 MEETINGS.. This game was never in doubt. If MSU even had any inkling of offense, we'd have blown them off the map. The Spartan defense was as strong as solid as any you've seen in college basketball this year. Suffocating defense. Michigan: eat me. Who's next? PURDUE YOU ARE UP.

And guess what, all this without our best player, Raymar Morgan. Having him back for the Purdue game... well, the Boilers are MEAT. Delvon Roe, with his best game of his career (14 pts, 10 rebs), is coming into his own and is turning into a damn fine post player. The Big Ten should be scared... very scared.

Sorry, Michigan. YOU ARE NOT EVEN IN THE SAME LEAGUE. You should join the MAC or the GLIAC. You suck, bad

#9 MSU vs Michigan Butt Kicking: Live Chat HERE

Will Donnie Gray Botch The MSU-UM Game Again This Year?

(2009 Feb 10)--If that clown of a ref, Donnie Gray, is going to be the ref at tonight's MSU-scUM contest, then the Spartans have a tall order. The guy is overzealous in his game calling and needs coke-bottle glasses to see straight. The last two times down in Ann Arbor, he has been the main culprit in MSU's losses (here and here), with bad call after bad make-up call. Let's hope he has his head glued on straight this evening if he's making the trip -- or maybe we can get lucky and bad traffic or a freak snowstorm can keep him away. MSU-UM blog previews over at Spartans Weblog and UMHoops.

A 4-pt favorite, Spartans Take 2-Game Lead Down to Crisler

(2009 Feb 10)--Note to Spartan cagers: it's time to whip the Yellow Bellies down in Ann Arbor. MSU has lost its last two meetings down in scUMville, with the 2006 game notably a foul-fest plagued game of highway robbery courtesy of Big Ten officials. Sure, the Big Green has won 15 of the last 18 and have dominated the series in the past decade...but MSU needs to close this one out on its way to a Big Ten Title. The Spartans find themselves all alone on top of the Big Ten with a 2-game lead, and also as a 4-point favorite (according to LSVC Open in Vegas) in tonight's game. It'll be broadcast on ESPN at 7 pm. And, Raymar Morgan? "very, very doubtful," Izzo said, with an illness that has plagued him for the Big Ten season.

Bottom line -- if Durrel Summers can hit his shots after last game's odd drought, if Lucas continues his aggressive attack mode, and if MSU can defend the three ball well (you can expect Walton to pull the plug and shut down Manny Harris), it should win going away. MSU's defense will be there tonight, it has been nothing short of outstanding on the defensive side of the ball. No doubt MSU will get its rebounds and interior play from Suton and Roe (though let's hope those lay ups go in). If Beilein's team has any chance, it will recognize that MSU has struggled most against the 1-3-1 zone without Morgan, and it can hope an off game by the MSU offense will give the Yellow Bellies a chance.

Not gonna happen. Watch MSU win, something like 71-59, blowing the Yellow Bellies out of that bunker they call Crisler "arena." Watch Summers get back to his smoking-hot ways, and Lucas will be primed to shake and bake around and through the Wolvies. It's time to teaching 'em a lesson about who is boss on the hardwood in this state.

Chris Allen FOUND In Whipping Of Indiana, 75-47. Big Ten Turns on Itself to Extend MSU's Lead

(2009 Feb 8)--Note to the East Lansing Police Department: call off the search, Chris Allen has been found. After a season in which our sharp shooting point guard had his time and role diminish along with his shot, Allen finally saw some daylight with a solid, 16-point effort in a 75-47 rout of Big Ten foe Indiana. Allen was 5-8 from the field (4-6 threes) in his best outing of the year, and paired with freshman Draymont Green's career high 15 points and 12 rebounds to lift the Spartans. That's the most puzzling and unexpected tandem to lead MSU this year. The Spartans doubled up the Hoosiers in the second half, outscoring them 42-21 en route to their 28 point margin. MSU nearly had an identical score in its last game, a 76-47 defeat of Minnesota on Wednesday. Goran Suton had another good (but not great) effort for 12 points on 5-6 shooting, and Delvon Roe scored 9 points but was just 3-9 (33%) from the FT line. Roe needs to shoot free throws better, he missed a pair of front ends of one-and-ones, costing MSU four points. The rest of the team shot poorly -- Kalin Lucas had 10 points on 4-15 shooting, and Durrell Summers was ice cold -- he had his worst game of the Big Ten season on just 1-11 shooting.

But, it was MSU's interior defense that killed Indiana. They gave the Hoosiers no room to breathe, and Indy had to settle for jump shots most of the game. Indiana was outrebounded 36-29, commited 19 turnovers to MSU's 10, and shot just 31% from the floor to MSU's 42%. Indiana hit just 3-16 (18%) threes. OUCH. Indiana point guard Dumes couldn't handle the whipping and resorted to thug tactics, swinging his elbows when others weren't looking. He elbowed Suton in the crown jewels but was not ejected by Eddie Hightower, though Mr. Big Shot Referee reviewed the tape. Later in the game, he was thrown out for an elbow to the face.

Now, on to whip those Yellow Bellies from Ann Arbor on Wednesday night, at 7 pm. Someone warm up the woodshed. Let's hope Raymar Morgan returns in time to compete in the annual bloodletting.

The Spartans should see their stock rise in the polls with its pair of 28+ point victories (Minny, Indiana) since last week. Other higher ranked teams didn't fare so well in the last six days: #4 Duke lost, #5 Louisville lost, #7 Wake Forest lost twice, #8 Marquette lost, #9 Xavier lost, #10 Clemson lost, #11 Butler lost, #12 Purdue lost.

Meanwhile, back in the jungle: as the Spartans continue to find ways to win convincingly, the rest of the Big Ten is beating itself up (or down)...Today, can be another case in point. Illinois hosts Purdue at 1 pm -- a win by the Illini would give MSU a 2-game lead over the rest of the field. GO ILLINI!

MSU vs Indy Open Thread/Live Chat. Favored by 22 points

(2009 Feb 7)--Your #13 MSU Spartans (18-4/8-2) will host the improving but bottom dweller Indiana Fighting Hoosiers (6-15/1-8) today at 4:00 p.m. The game will be broadcast on ESPN. The Spartans are a 22-point favorite. Raymar Morgan again will not suit up today with his walking pneumonia that has kept him out for virtually the entire Big Ten season so far. When he returns, the Spartans will be even more deadly. The Open Thread Live Chat below will open at 3:30 pm. Previews over at Spartans Weblog, Sparty Basketball, and the Hoosier Report.

Note: MSU is currently a #2 seed in the East in Joe Lunardi's Bracketology (updated Feb. 6); scUM is listed among "first four out" (hahahahahaha).

Tubby Smith Conversation with Northwest Airlines Caught On Tape - Tubby Feared the Woodshed

(2009 Feb 4)--WE KICKED SOME MINNESOTA ASS SO BAD TODAY. IT WAS WOODSHED ACTION, A SPANKING. Minnesota was treated to a whipping, losing 76-47. And, it wasn't that close, with MSU up by 29 points or more for most of the game. But, the best part about this was the ES receiving a conversation from an mp3 recording from Northwest Airlines last night. He just translated it for your enjoyment:

Tubby Smith - "Yes, I have 18 tickets to Lansing, Michigan, that I would like to cancel."

NWA Agent - "Hello, coach Smith. Let me see if I can help you with that. Why do you want to cancel them?"

Tubby - "We're gonna get our butts kicked by Tommy Izzo tomorrow. We did here, it'll be worse in East Lansing. I figure at least we may as well save the trip and get remibursement."

NWA Agent - "But coach, you gotta give something for us up here in the cold north to root for. Their best player, Raymar Morgan, is out -- that should give you an advantage."

Tubby - "Doesn't matter about Raymar. You know that Durrell Summers kid is red hot -- he'll scold us for 21 points. They rebound everyone, and we'll be outrebounded 2-to-1 by MSU (42-26/22-12 in first half). Geez, they'll probably bring in both Ibok and Herzog sometime in the game (with 4:53 to go), a pair of 7-footers just to embarass us that we can't compete. I know better - gimme my money back."

NWA Agent - "Wow, coach. You don't have much confidence. The Spartans just lost 2 games at home in a row. Why not make it a triad?"

Tubby - "They are due and we're gonna be their whipping post. That is why it will be their tenacious defense that will kick our ass. They'll be so pissed off they will likely close the interior and force us to shoot from distance with the Izzone blaring in the background. We'll be lucky to shoot 18% in the first half. I bet they'll be up 30-9 before 10 minutes go by."

NWA Agent - "Well, sorry coach, but I can't reimburse you for an expectant ass-kicking, we don't have that code in our system. You may as well get to East Lansing and try."

Tubby - "OK, fine then. We'll just put a team on the floor and expect to get hammered by the high-flying, mystifying Spartans. At least I know Kalin Lucas and Goran Suton will warm things up in the frosty north. It'll give me a teaching lesson. Thanks for nothing."

Open Thread/Live Chat for MSU vs Minny - OPEN

(2009 Feb 4)--Join the live chat below for MSU vs Minnesota game. Let's get the W this time around.

Open Thread/Live Chat for MSU vs Minny: 8:30 pm on BTN; Dantonio announces official '09 football recruits

(2009 Feb 4)--Crawl back over to the enlightenedspartan to participate in a Live Chat for the MSU vs Minnesota game. We'll open it up around 7:45 pm.

Here's the official release from MSU Athletics on Dantonio's 2009 football recruiting class. Check out the historical rankings for Big Ten recruiting classes, and the averages, from 2002-2009 below...

Yer 2009 Spartan Recruits Bring MSU to the #14 Ranked Class; Historical 2002-2009 Rankings; MD on BTN

(2009 Feb 3)--Michigan State's recruiting class for 2009 looks to be the best in recent memory. Rivals.com puts the MSU class at 14th best in the nation, which is the highest ranking by the website since 2002. FYI -Watch for Mark Dantonio, to be interviewed tomorrow on the Big Ten Network's special Recruiting Show, which begins at 4:30 PM ET on Wednesday (it will re-air at 11:30 PM ET on Wednesday as well as 9 AM ET and 4:30 PM ET on Friday).

Now, the ES has some serious problems with both Rivals.com and Scout.com (which ranks MSU #34 in the country), most particularly in how these two services basically promote high schoolers for their athletic prowess with a lack of critical regard to the rigors of college. Eligibility? Who cares. Academic preparedness? Dunno. Homesickness? Whatever.

That said, these two services also have been around long enough to be an interesting study in comparing their measurements of college recruits at the time they sign on the dotted line. How did MSU fare compared to previous years?

Rivals puts scUM at the top spot in the Big Ten in recruiting since 2002, with an average class ranked 10.6. Ohio State is second with 12.5; Notre Dame third with 18.6; and Michigan State ranked 6th with a 35.6. Here are the rankings by Rivals from 2002-2009:

When you consider the success of the programs,this seems to make sense, with just a few anomalies: ND at #3 is much too high, they have been barely .500 in the last 8 years; MSU at #6 is also too high, as they've fared poorly more often than not. Wisky's #7 ranking should be higher considering their success on the field; and NW at #10 is far too low -- the Cats are typically a middle-road team in the Big Ten; and, OSU at #2 is also too low -- they are a lock for the BCS every year (the #41 ranking in 2003 certainly brought down their average).

Anyhow, enjoy your recruiting day hype. It ain't all it's cracked up to be.

MSU Adds Defensive Back; More on Joe Pa Loss

(2009 Feb 1)--Michigan State added another solid verbal commitment to its 2009 recruiting class with Jarius Jones (6-2, 210-lbs) of Tampa, Florida. According to the mild-mannered reporter Hondo, Jones played "safety, linebacker, running back and wide receiver while also returning kicks and punts." As a wideout, he was 40-800 with 12 TDs; on defense, he made 188 tackles and 4 INTs. This gives the Big Green 23 verbal commitments heading into signing day this Wednesday; Rivals.com will have MSU likely ranked as the #14 class in the nation this fall. Scout.com isn't as impressed, and ranks MSU at #32. As the ES has said before, take the rankings with a grain of salt -- they give a general indication of the level of talent, but it breeds no expectation for outcome (MSU defeated scUM this year, 35-21, even with lower recruiting classes in each of the last umpteen years; or, Keith Nichol who will compete for MSUs starting QB, added to Oklahoma's #14 ranking in 2007, although he rarely played for the Sooners before transferring).

MSU LOSING TO PENN STATE
My kids loved the game today, even though we lost to Penn State. It was exciting and about the loudest the Brez has been all year, especially MSU trying desperately to complete the comeback attempt. The Breslin certainly had an effect on Joe Pa free throw shooting at the end, and give Izzo credit for being masterful at the end to give MSU a chance. Lucas just need to hit that second FT with 10 sec left. But, PSU deserved to win -- they shot much better today (Battle just got OFF today, 29 pts?), especially behind the arc. Many of those shots were absurd, but they went in. That really is where MSU lost the game: a 4 pt loss, and Joe Pa was 10-20 3s, whereas MSU was 5-20 3s (5 point difference). Overall shooting, JoePa just made those shots fall: 27-48 (56.3%) vs MSUs 26-61 (42.6%). But, MSU was better in the other stats: MSU less TOs (12 vs 14); MSU more rebounds (35 vs 30); MSU more FTs (11-15 vs 8-17). JoePa just had one of those good-shooting-Tex days.

At the same time, missed layups by Lucas, Suton, Roe, didn't help; set plays late for Summers and Allen didn't go in. MSU's suffocating defense vs Ohio State, Minnesota, Texas, Kansas... well, it only showed up sporadically today. Suton (11 pts, 9 rebs) and Summers (9 pts, 3 rebs) had sub-par games. Morgan is just unhealthy -- a key to this team is its depth, and if and when MSU gets Morgan back, they will be scary. But until then, well, they will be a bit inconsistent, especially with the interior game. Bottom line - give this game to JoePa, let them live the moment in joyous advance, they deserve it. MSU is still a damn good team, but not today. MSU still controls its own destiny -- but I never would have thought losses at home to NW and JoePa would be our only ones at home this year. Go figure.

MSU Loses At Home First Tme Ever To... Penn State?

(2009 Feb 1)--MSU couldn't buy a basket today, and Penn State shot the lights out from 3-point land, and it led to a 72-68 victory for the Lions today. Penn State couldn't hit a free throw at the end, and it allowed MSU back into the game, but Lucas missed the game tying FT with 10 seconds left. Oh well. A surprise, but give PSU credit - they shot the ball better today. Raymar Morgan barely played again because of the flu. It was MSU's first ever loss at home to Penn State (now 16-1 overall).

Live Chat For Penn State at #9 MSU - Sparty favored by 13

(2009 Feb 1)--We're favored by 13 over the Nittany Lions at home today. The ES is feeling real good about this one, a potential slobber-knocker today. There is a short delay in the posts, but fire away below. When in doubt, refresh your browser; or, expand the window by hitting the buttom below to the right of the frame...

Michigan Whining Like School Girls - Someone Give 'em a Binky; Open Thread for MSU vs JoePa tomorrow

(2009 Jan 31)--Listen to the little girls over in Ann Arbor WHINE about getting hammered by Purdue today. OK, so Manny Harris shouldn't have been ejected for drawing blood. OK, so the event led to a momentum swing that killed scUM's chances. But READ THE WHINING. It's suffocating. Instead of finding a way to adapt and overcome, they folded. Here's an idea -- the next few drives, maybe hit some baskets and then play some tough defense. It ain't like football. Just shoot the rock and score. Your argument is pathetic and defines how you suck. Reading the Yellow Belly blogosphere, you'd think that the game lasted 30 seconds and consisted only of the Harris elbowing situation.Ummmm... boo-hoo, the ES is all tears.

Good teams find a way to win. Period. Stop whining and start winning. Or shut up. Yellow Bellies -- you're just not a good team, and whining makes you look like a little school girl who had her ball stolen. Oh, poor thing, let us take you to the office and call your mommy.

We'll see you in a week and kick your prissy ass down in Ann Arbor, again. How pathetic, you deserved to get your asses kicked today. In the meantime, as Spartans, I think we should take up a collection to support Beilein's salary -- he needs to stay in Ann Arbor to continue the losing scUM hoops tradition.

The ES will have a live chat/open thread for the MSU v JoePa game. It'll be ready to roll around 11:30 am.

Spartans Dominate Iowa in 15-point win on the road; Summers, Lucas Shine Again

(2009 Jan 29)--Michigan State kicked Iowa's butt, 71-56. In their house. They even gave out free tickets, but it didn't help. Durrell Summers and Kalin Lucas put on a clinic. Beautiful.

LIVE THREAD OPEN CHAT: Big Green MSU vs Iowa

(2009 Jan 29)--There is a short delay in the posts, but fire away below. When in doubt, refresh your browser; or, expand the window by hitting the buttom below to the right of the frame...

#9 MSU v Iowa - LIVE THREAD OPEN CHAT at 6:30 pm

(2009 Jan 29)--OK, the ES invites the masses for another open thread for tonight's basketball game, #9 Michigan State (16-3/6-1) travelling to Iowa City to kick some Ugly Bird (12-8/2-5) tail. Tip off is set for 7 pm EST, and it'll be live on ESPN. Come on over and spill your thoughts and your beer while you watch the game. We'll open the chat up by 6:30 pm.

Gorgeous watching the Yellow Bellies crash and burn in an ugly way at Ohio State last night. scUM is a has been for the tournament again this year.

Gridder Signing Day Looms... MSU's Hockey Thugs... Baseball in Sub-Zero Temps... And A Little Hardwood?

(2009 Jan 28)--Here in East Lansing, we're in the midst of the worst winter we've had in 15-20 years; we thought last year was bad, but the ES has had over a foot of snow in his front yard for more than a month. Ugh.

But, thanks to basketball and football, the ES is getting some warmth from the Spartoonies. Football first, and national letter of intent signing day looms next week on Feb 4. Let us thank our lucky stars that the Big Ten Network will have a WHOLE SHOW dedicated to Signing Day (the ES will puke shortly). Still, MSU should haul in the promise of a good class, so long as they study, get passing grades, stay out of trouble, and don't get too homesick. At this point, MSU football has verbal commitments from 22 high school students, and is ranked the fourth best class in the Big Ten by Scout.com and the third best by Rivals.com.

As for the hardwood, MSU (16-2/6-1) meets up at Iowa (12-8/2-5) tomorrow at 7 pm. Watch the game on ESPN with Bill "the kiss off the glass" Raftery. It's funny reading the game notes and seeing how they conflict with the Big Ten Network -- if you saw BTN, you would see that MSU has NO LEADERS in any statistical catgegory. The reality is, in Big Ten games, Suton leads the conference with a 9.9 rpg average and third with 56.4% FG pct. Raymar Morgan is fourth with 7.4 rpg. MSU is ourtrebounding Big Ten foes 15.7 per game (WOW). Kalin Lucas is the leading scorer in conference games with an 18.0 avg and third with an 88% FT pct. Travis Walton is fourth in assists with 3.9 dishes per game. You would think the BTN would highlight Big Ten games instead of overall games. Oh well, c'est la vie. Iowa sucks, we should kick their ass pretty good tomorrow. Tune in for a good time.

It's funny, of sorts... the ES heads across campus to class and hears the "knock, knock, thud" of hammers and construction workers doing what they can to build the new Spartan baseball stucture in 0-degree weather. It will be a beautiful thing to see Old College Field transformed into a nice (real) place to watch hardball. But, one has to wonder if baseball is even worthy of our time up here... with half the season dedicated to travel to warmer climes, why bother? It's no wonder MSU (and the Big Ten) has struggled for years -- they can kick some Pepperdine and Witchita State tail in hoops, football, field hockey, gymanstics, and even be competitive in volleyball... but in baseball, why bother fighting the frozen reality of the sport? MSU is at an extreme disadvantage here, but it will be a nice facility to watch a game if the snow thaws by mid-April.

Finally, OK - let's rap a bit about MSU hockey and the complete mugging down at Yost Ice Arena. Yes, Spartan icers were suspended for the season -- they should have for their brutality and lack of common sense. From the outset, the ES doesn't blame the Wolverine daddy for going down to the MSU locker room to pick a fight... but, well... "but." We'll leave you to complete that sentence. Michigan kicked our butt. Our season is and was history, and it all came to a boil with the wrong guy in the wrong place at the right time. Let's just call the season, lick our wounds, and get ready for '09-'10. We rule the state in basketball and football, anyways.

MSU Outrebounds, Outhussles, and Kicks Ohio State Butt, 78-67

(2009 Jan 26)--Michigan State (16-3/6-1), trailing by as many as 13 points in the first half, finally overcame its dreary offensive showing the past couple of games with a dominating second half performance in a 78-67 buttkicking at Ohio State on Sunday. Durrell Summers had the best game of his carreer, with a red-hot 26 points on 8-13 shooting (including 6-9 threes). Kalin Lucas scored 20 points, all in the second half. MSU dominated the offensive glass, with a 16-3 rebounding advantage and 35-19 advantage on the boards overall. MSU outscored the Buckeyes, 52-36 in the second half. Excellent, excellent performance by the Spartans on Sunday.

Also, there are reports that LB Denzel Drone (6-2, 230-lbs) of Plant City, Florida, has offered a verbal commitment to the Spartans. However, other reports mention that Drone has already verbally commited to Western Kentucky. Check out his bio on Scout.com.

Open Thread/Live Chat for #7 MSU vs Ohio St

(2009 Jan 25)--Chime in on MSU kicking some Buckeye butt today from Columbus...

Doctor Receives 21st Commit - OL from Ohio; Open Thread/Live Chat for MSU vs Ohio St

(2009 Jan 25)--The Spartans received commitment #21 this week when offensive lineman Henry Conway of Shaker Heights in Cleveland, Ohio, decided to don the Green & White. Conway also considered BC, Indiana, and Cincy. He's a big guy at 6' 6", 295-lbs, can run a 5-second 40-yard dash... and he just looks mean, even in glasses. He also throws the shot put.

The ES will have an open thread/live chat for tomorrow's men's hoops stint at Ohio State (13-4/3-3). So, come on over to the ES tomorrow to chime in on your Spartoonies as we kick some Buckeye tail on the road. Tip is 3:45 pm, I'll have live chat up by 3:30.

Spartans Get Kicker from Troy to Commit

(2009 Jan 21)--The Spartans received a verbal commitment from kicker Kevin Muma of Troy, Michigan. Muma also considered
North Carolina, Purdue, Bowling Green, Rice, Auburn, Kansas, and Michigan. I went and checked out MaxPreps for the skinny on Muma last year. In high school last year, Muma punted 24 times for a 36-yard average, a 53-yard long and 9 inside the 20. Of his 53 kickoffs, 40 were touchbacks. He kicked 12 FGs and 32 PATs last year. He hit a 52-yard field goal in a 23-22 victory over West Bloomfield, and knocked few several 40+ yarders as well. He also played QB, completed 45% of his passes and ran for 418 yards... but he ain't coming to MSU to do that. He seems to have a pretty good leg.

MSU Loses at Home to Northwestern, 70-63

(2009 Jan 21)--Huh? Wha happen'd? Spartans must've played pretty damn bad, the Cats pretty damn good, and Izzo has to be pretty damn disappointed. We'll let the 'Cats blogger, Lake the Posts, tell this story (it's all yours, take it!) as this is what he calls one of the biggest wins in the history of NW hoops.

MSU Survives Illini, Poor Officiating Again, To Win 63-57. Quality of Big Ten Officiating Down Significantly in '09; Photologue vs Illinois

(2009 Jan 18)--The ES was losing his voice, steeped in anger on Saturday, red faced and yelling at the officials a la Tom Izzo in the middle of MSU's rough 63-57 victory over Illinois on Saturday. Matter of fact, it was the LOUDEST the Breslin has been all year, if not for a few years. MSU was flat offensively for the better part of the game, but remained in striking distance throughout, trailing by 5-7 points. The officiating was atrocious throughout -- ticky tacky, nick nack fouls that ruined the flow and enjoyment of the game. We'll talk about that more below. But, the absurdity was an "inadvertent" whistle by the refs during an excellent MSU defensive stand with about 12:00 left in the game. Illinois threw up a prayer with 2 seconds left on the shot clock and MSU got the rebound as the horn sounded... but the referees gave the ball BACK to Illinois, who turned around and converted a quick 3-pointer. The Breslin Center erupted in boos and it actually spurred a vicious crowd that helped energize MSU back into the game, clamp down defensively, and hit the free throws going a way to victory. Marquise Gray had the best game in the past few years with 11 points and 6 rebounds. But as we said at the half, "If Marquise is your leading scorer, then you're having problems on offense." The Spartans played well all game long defensively, but really struggled missing open layups, shooting air balls, time and again. A non-typical performance from MSU offensively. But, #7 MSU now stands 5-0 in the conference, and 15-2 overall, and are poised to climb again in the standings. This is a team that perseveres.

Public enemy #1 (click to enlarge photo). The crowd, irate at the bald official, screaming for some common sense after the "inadvertent whistle."

Izzo was in the face of the referees, and he should have. The inadvertent whistle in yesterday's game was one of a plethora of mistakes that the ES has now seen in every home game over the past several weeks, particularly the last two weeks. But, what is particularly frustrating and disturbing is the inability to watch the natural flow of a basketball game because of refrees' decisions to be an active participant and to "control" of the game. It is ruining the game -- I wonder if I should go to any more games. Rarely do we see any running the entire floor without a foul being called. So many times, both Illinois, Kansas, and MSU, you saw "phantom" calls where there was no foul but you could conceive there may be a foul by the positioning of the players. In these instances, referees need to swallow the whistle... LET THEM PLAY. The opposite is happening: don't call it unless it is a foul. Period. You don't call it if you "think" it is a foul -- it is a foul or it isn't.

If I was an official (David Maracich, Donnie Gray, Dwayne Gladden) from yesterday's MSU vs Ilinois game, I would be EMBARASSED at my performance. That's right, embarassed, for having a hand in ruining another potentially great game.

There really needs to be a reevaluation of the quality of officiating in the Big Ten. I argue that there are more worse or incorrect calls today than five years ago, 10 years ago, or when I went to school 20 years ago. How much of this is due to the use of instant replay? Has it eroded the confidence of officials? Has the type of game changed enough that they are being encouraged to call more fouls to control the game? More absurdly... do they have a foul quota? It is worth time to investigate the eroding quality of officiating and the education that officials are receiving from the NCAA and Big Ten conference. The game is being ruined, slowly but surely... right in front of our eyes. Anyone who sees otherwise is blind.

More Photos (click to enlarge), with Izzo giving earfuls all game long to numbskulls #2 and #3:

Wanna hear how low the Brezlin was? Watch this video below taken by the ES in the upper deck, after the Walton steal and Morgan layup when MSU sealed the deal late in the second half.

#7 MSU vs Illinois - Live Chat Open Thread

(2009 Jan 17)--The ES is off to the Breslin Center through the 18 inches of snow and 10 degree weather to see the Spartans heat up against Illinois. Open thread for a live chat on whipping the Illini below. PS - Mo Pete will have his #42 jersey retired today.

[OPEN THREAD - closed]

MSU vs Western moved from Ford Field to Spartan Stadium; John L Smith HIRED by Arkansas

(2009 Jan 16)--MSU has relocated its scheduled stint next year vs WMU at Ford Field back to Spartan Stadium. This, after the current economy and need for revenue for the MSU athletic department forced a revisitng of the issue -- and a WISE decision. It was almost another one of those overthinking it decisions where MSU tries to do the right thing but fails to keep the ship steady. But, wiser heads prevailed in the end. That makes seven home games for next year.

A slap in the face? Maybe. But it took two long years of R&R for John L Smith to finally get back into the college game. The former Spartan Cowboy Clown of a coach has been hired as Special Teams Coordinator for the University of Arkansas. My, oh my, how his stock has dropped. The ES figures he won't be pulling down $1.6 million this year for the Razorbacks. Hey, JLS is a nice guy, but figuring in his last year, MSU had two punts blocked, returned kickoffs only 18 yards on average, and only 16 of 58 (28%) of punts were downed inside the 20.... well, its just too bad he wasn't hired elsewhere in the Big Ten. Maybe Hollis and MD can schedule a game vs Arkansas -- quick, do it, while he's still around.

scUM posting hate for Izzo backfires on Illini message board

(2009 Jan 16)--Feel the hate, Love the hate. So, here's a scUM poster over on the Illini board earlier this week, TRYING to drum up hatred of MSU. No dice, as the Illini jump onboard the "classy" MSU bandwagon and demonstrate their "love of Izzo" and Izzo as a "God amongst men." Hilarious.

The love of MSU from the Illini in comparison to the Illini's hate for scUM -- note, when the ES travelled out to watch MSU hammer the Zookies in football under John L Smith 4 years ago, and saw about 5,000 t-shirts that said "Muck Fichigan... Ann Arbor is a Whore" -- thusly publicly demonstrating by the masses their HATRED for Michigan while watching MSU kick their butt on the field. The ES will never forget countless Illini coming up to the ES, saying "you better kick Michigan's butt next week" (we didn't, we lost).

Just a hilarious backfire by the tunnel-visioned scUM. Once again, the college sports nation sans the media demonstrate their utter disdain for all that is Ann Arbor scUM.

Spartans Nail Down HUGE Recruit with TE Dion Sims Verbally Committing to Green and White

(2009 Jan 14)--Mark Dantonio hit the long ball with recruits all year long, and he may have saved his best at-bat for last. Highly sought after Dion Sims of Orchard Lake St. Mary's has given a verbal commitment to play football at Michigan State. Sims is considered an elite prospect, one of the best tight ends in the nation. He stands 6-5, weighs 230 lbs, and was considered by Rivals.com as the 7th best TE in the land. He turned down offers from Ohio State, Miami, Michigan, Louisville, Iowa, Tennessee, and Purdue to don the Green and White.

Welcome to the Spartan Nation, Mr. Sims!

#7 MSU Puts Penn State in its Place, 78-73

(2009 Jan 14)--After up by as many as 17 points with 11 minutes remaining, Joe Pa started a furious rally and got to within one point, but the better team won - #7 Michigan State 78, Penn State 73. At times MSU looked unbelievable, but they couldn't make the knockout punch and a late offensive lull let Joe Pa crawl back. Still, MSU outrebounds PSU 41-24 and wins. 14-2/4-0 MSU sits alone atop the Big Ten and remains its best and only undefeated team. Goran Suton's double double: 13 pts/14 rebs, Raymar Morgan 17 pts/5 rebs, KalinLucas 15 pts/4 assts.

MSU vs Joe Pa: OPEN THREAD Live Chat

(2009 Jan 14)--MSU Will kick Penn State's butt. Chat about it!

Sparty Kicks Some Jayhawk Butt, 75-62. Photologue.

(2009 Jan 10)--Whooooeee, Kalin Lucas is sweet. 22 pts, 5 rebs. Big Green outrebounded the uglybirds, 39-28. MSU led Kansas, 37-18 at the half. Yessir, the national title for Kansas is yesteryear. MSU opened up a can of whoop-ass early, and fulfilled to its 9th straight win. Click on most photos to enlarge.

Izzo giving Ibok the biz.

Clark Kellogg and Verne Lundquist (left) talk about sewing; ref Eddie Hightower (right) needs another set of eyes, after 30 years of pinstripes.

Football coach Dantonio gives haircut advice (left); Aaaah, yes, confirming the wish to be a Spartan cheerleader (right)

Izzone in full force, trouncing the Jayhawks.

Tipoff #8 MSU vs Kansas - Big Time Hoops Open Thread

(2009 Jan 10)--It's time for #8 MSU to kick some Jayhawk booty. Kansas comes in as the defending national champs, unranked but surging at 11-3. Let's knock 'em down and teach 'em a lesson. Chime in on the live chat/open thread....

Tim Tebow and his Jesus: Britney's Opposite and Just as Painful

(2009 Jan 8)--Congrats to the University of Florida and their gridders for the national title. But, I think Tim Tebow with his "John" on one side and "3:16" on the other of his eye glare patches kind of defines my "sigh" for him. The guy is an awesome player, but displaying and calling out the scripture really turns me off. It's like watching the exact opposite of Britney Spears (or Terrell Owens), yet just as painful. What ever happened to Barry Sanders? Tim Tebow - yes, you bore me, and congrats. Gag.

MSU men's basketball history featured on Big Ten Network; MSU ranked #7/#8/#12; Mo Pete Jersey Retirement Party vs Kansas on Saturday

(2009 Jan 5)--The Big Ten Network will feature "The Greatest Stories of Michigan State Basketball" numerous times over the next week: Wed, Jan 7, at 11:30 pm; Fri, Jan 9, at 10 pm; Sat, Jan 10, at 6:30 pm; and Sun, Jan 11, at 1:30 pm and 8:30 pm. Also, the 2000 national championship vs Florida will be replayed this Saturday, Jan 11, at both 11 am and 8 pm. MSU basketball history on the BTN's high rotation list, Spartan fans!

MSU men's hoops is now ranked #8 in the AP, #12 in the UPI, and #7 in the all important RPI rankings. On the slate: two big home games this week, vs 10-2/1-1 Ohio State and defending national champ 10-3 Kansas (national TV on CBS). MSU's last loss at home? 25 games ago, Feb. 3, 2007, against No. 4 Ohio State.

The Big Green has three days off—before classes start next week —to prepare for Kansas. There is talk that Mo Pete's jersey will be retired Saturday during the game. Mo Pete... is.... SWEET!

Capital One Bowl Recap: Good Effort, Short Outcome

(2009 Jan 1)--Let's give the Michigan State Spartan gridders a little love, here. Damn, it was a fun game to watch, even though MSU came up short to Georgia, 24-12. MSU never submitted in this game, and neither did Georgia. A GREAT defensive battle. The ES watched from EL Central, at the Peanut Barrel.

The MSU defense was AWESOME, playing its best game of the year... but it didn't get any help from the Spartan offense. MSU gave up just 331 yards to UGA, and only had 236 yards itself. Greg Jones and Otis Wiley were studs and layed the lumber a few times on the higlight reel today. Jones had 12 tackles to lead all defenders, and Otis Wiley had 7 hisself. Both played awesome and raised their stock.

The biggest liability for MSU today? I hate to say it, but it was QB Brian Hoyer (18-34-1-169). Hoyer repeatedly missed open receivers and overthrew passes, as he has all year long. Particularly on third down. But, just as big of a liability was the entire MSU offensive line inability to break Ringer free (47 rush yards) -- the ES pointed out this as a major challenge today, and the O-line failed to convert. Notably, MSU DID bottle up Knowshon Moreno (62 rush yards), and the Georgia passing game for most of the day... MSU was also the recipient of three TOs (fumble, INT, botched punt) and a slew of UGA stupid penalties... but on offense, they couldn't turn much of it into points. Blame this one on Hoyer and the O-line, Spartan fans -- and great play by the Georgia defense.

Of course, I got the typical cell phone call from my bro early in the second quarter, "what the f*%k are they doing? They are getting manhandled"... indeed they were. O-coordinator Don Treadwell went on a brain fart early in the 2nd period, he must have been giddy with all the gifts handed to him. A reverse pass, sweep play, etc. None worked and led to about 30 yards in losses... instead of considering play action passing downfield. It's too bad because the brain-farts hapenned in the middle of great opportunities.. instead of 14 points, MSU got 6. Still, MSU led at half, 6-3.

Botttom line: MSU hung in there. After their late TD, it was 17-12 and mid-4th quarter. Few gave MSU a chance to be that close, but they were. And it wasn't a bullshit effort built on flukes. It was hard work, well-earned by MSU to play tight all game long. MSU can build on this game, return to Orlando or better yet Pasadena next year AND WIN! It is a stepping stone, but a good one.

It is tough to be optimistic after a loss, but today I see a glowing future for MSU. Defense wins titles, and today's defense was great. Our defense will be VERY GOOD next year. Watch out Big Ten. Congrats, Georgia, and congrats Mark Dantonio on a great year for MSU.

Score by Quarters 1 2 3 4 Score
----------------- -- -- -- -- -----
Georgia............. 3 0 14 7 - 24
Michigan State...... 3 3 0 6 - 12

Scoring Summary:
1st 09:26 UGA - Blair Walsh 32 yd field goal
8 plays, 48 yards, TOP 2:39, UGA 3 - MSU 0
04:50 MSU - Swenson, Brett 20 yd field goal
4 plays, 3 yards, TOP 1:25, UGA 3 - MSU 3
2nd 02:14 MSU - Swenson, Brett 32 yd field goal
10 plays, 24 yards, TOP 4:45, UGA 3 - MSU 6
3rd 03:31 UGA - Michael Moore 35 yd pass from M. Stafford (Blair Walsh kick)
10 plays, 96 yards, TOP 5:51, UGA 10 - MSU 6
00:09 UGA - Aron White 21 yd pass from M. Stafford (Blair Walsh kick)
1 play, 21 yards, TOP 0:06, UGA 17 - MSU 6
4th 08:50 MSU - Ringer, Javon 1 yd run (Hoyer, Brian pass failed)
10 plays, 54 yards, TOP 2:20, UGA 17 - MSU 12
03:43 UGA - Knowshon Moreno 21 yd pass from M. Stafford (Blair Walsh kick)
11 plays, 67 yards, TOP 5:03, UGA 24 - MSU 12

Kickoff time: 1:07 pm End of Game: 4:26 pm Total elapsed time: 3:19
Officials: Referee: Karl Richins; Umpire: W. Willingham; Linesman: Kelly Saalfeld;
Line judge: Russell Baynes; Back judge: Len Williams; Field judge: J Taylor;
Side judge: Brad Horchem; Scorer: Brian Ormiston;
Temperature: 67 Wind: E 24 Weather: Breezy

Georgia's Matt Stafford voted as the game's MVP.

UGA MSU

FIRST DOWNS................... 19 16
Rushing..................... 4 4
Passing..................... 15 10
Penalty..................... 0 2
NET YARDS RUSHING............. 81 31
Rushing Attempts............ 33 34
Average Per Rush............ 2.5 0.9
Rushing Touchdowns.......... 0 1
Yards Gained Rushing........ 106 87
Yards Lost Rushing.......... 25 56
NET YARDS PASSING............. 250 205
Completions-Attempts-Int.... 20-31-1 22-39-1
Average Per Attempt......... 8.1 5.3
Average Per Completion...... 12.5 9.3
Passing Touchdowns.......... 3 0
TOTAL OFFENSE YARDS........... 331 236
Total offense plays......... 64 73
Average Gain Per Play....... 5.2 3.2
Fumbles: Number-Lost.......... 1-1 1-0
Penalties: Number-Yards....... 7-53 5-50
PUNTS-YARDS................... 5-237 5-190
Average Yards Per Punt...... 47.4 38.0
Net Yards Per Punt.......... 36.4 30.4
Inside 20................... 1 4
50+ Yards................... 2 1
Touchbacks.................. 2 0
Fair catch.................. 0 2
KICKOFFS-YARDS................ 5-283 4-231
Average Yards Per Kickoff... 56.6 57.8
Net Yards Per Kickoff....... 39.0 38.2
Touchbacks.................. 0 0
Punt returns: Number-Yards-TD. 1-38-0 1-15-0
Average Per Return.......... 38.0 15.0
Kickoff returns: Number-Yds-TD 4-78-0 4-88-0
Average Per Return.......... 19.5 22.0
Interceptions: Number-Yds-TD.. 1-29-0 1-24-0
Fumble Returns: Number-Yds-TD. 0-0-0 0-0-0
Miscellaneous Yards........... 0 0
Possession Time............... 30:00 30:00
1st Quarter................. 5:02 9:58
2nd Quarter................. 5:48 9:12
3rd Quarter................. 9:29 5:31
4th Quarter................. 9:41 5:19
Third-Down Conversions........ 5 of 12 4 of 16
Fourth-Down Conversions....... 0 of 1 1 of 3
Red-Zone Scores-Chances....... 1-2 3-3
Sacks By: Number-Yards........ 6-40 2-15
PAT Kicks..................... 3-3 0-0
Field Goals................... 1-1 2-3

POUND GREEN POUND!

(2009 Jan 1)--Happy New Year! It is time to pound the Georgia Bulldogs into submission. When will they submit? 4th quarter, 3rd quarter? Live Chat, Open Thread here throughout the game, opens 12:30 pm.

ES Game Day Preview Part II - More More More. Top 3 Stats, Top 3 MSU Challenges. Live Chat & More

(2008 Dec 31)--Those interested, we will have a live chat room open for the MSU vs Georgia Capital One Bowl, and other bells & whistles for you to contribute. Tune in, chime in.

I actually created a podcast this am and my computer died on me before I saved it. So instead of via audio, I'll print some of my thoughts, including Top 3 stats to watch and top 3 challenges for MSU:

Top Three Stats:

#1. First Downs. Georgia had 21.2 to MSU's 19.0 average per game. But, Georgia also scored 32 ppg to MSU's 26... The difference, six more points on two more first downs per game, is larger than you might think;

#2. Third Down Success. Georgia and MSU had roughly the same number of third downs converted this year: 62 for MSU, 61 for Georgia. BUT, Georgia converted that in 30 less attempts. It means a 42%-35% advantage.

#3. Punting. Georgia punted the ball 46 times this year, and had 31 fair caught or downed inside the 20. MSU? 66 punts, and similarly, 31 fair caught or downed I20.

Combined, the three statistics mean: Georgia is more efficient with the football, scoring more with less plays, and creates opportunities for better field position to control the game.

Top Three Challenges:

#1. Knowshon Moreno. How will MSU stop Moreno? The Spartans struggled vs the best running teams it faced in the Big Ten... Shonn Greene (Iowa, 157 yds, 5.2 avg), Beanie Wells (OSU, 140 yds, 4.0 avg), Hill & Clay (Wisc, 217 yds, 2.5 avg) and Tyrell Sutton (NW, 160 yds, 6.0 avg). Expect a similar result out of Georgia.

#2. UGA Passing Game. Wow, they're good. Stafford is completing pases at a 61% clip; he was only sacked 15 times this year; and his receivers, Massqauoi and Green, had combined 112 catches for 1,900 yards and 16 TDs.

#3. Blocking for Javon Ringer. MSU will run the ball extensively to Ringer -- can they find success against Georgia stacking the line? In its last six games, the Bulldogs gave up rushing yards: 114 (Vandy), 188 (LSU), 185 (Florida), 226 (Kentucky), 124 (Auburn), and 409 (Ga Tech). In its last four games vs quality defenses, MSU has run: 91 (Iowa), 52 (Ohio St), 25 (Wisky), 35 (Penn St). In its last three games vs average defenses: 128 (NW), 167 (scUM), 146 (Purdue). What is important here is how MSU uses Ringer to control the clock and the tempo of the game. Notably, MSU won 5 of those 7 games... can they control the tempo vs Georgia with its run game?

Chance to win: 40%, I give MSU a 2 of 5 chance.

Minnesota, Tubby Smith Taught a Lesson by Michigan State In Good Ole-Fashioned Ass Kicking, 70-58

(2008 Dec 31)--You hate to rub it in, but let's do it anyway. Michigan State wiped the floor of Williams Arena with the University of Minnesota basketball team. I predicted we'd win, but the Spartans kicked their ass. The score was 70-58, but it wasn't that close... it was closer to the 55-0 ass-beating by Iowa in Minny's final football game. Tubbyball still has a long way to go. The #10 Spartans taught the #21 Gophers a lesson or three today. MSU outshot, outrebounded, outjumped, outhustled, outdefended, and outplayed the Gophers from the opening tipoff. The Gophers couldn't handle the Spartans. It was a clinical performance by the Green and White. MSU looked awesome, and Minnesota looked like the crack of my grandma's ass. By the 6:00 mark of the second half, MSU was in control & up by 19, and you could have heard a mouse squeak in "the barn."

Kalin "Lightning" Lucas had 24 pts; and MSU received a pair of double-doubles from both Raymar "Captain" Morgan (10 pts, 10 rebs) and Goran "The Serbian Sultan" Suton (11 pts, 12 rebs). MSU also solved its free throw woes, going 12-13 from the line. MSU outrebounded Minny, 43-22. But, it was MSU's defense which dominated -- who is the best Gopher threat offensively? I have no idea, and you couldn't tell today... MSU completely shut down Minny in the second half.

"From the Barn" called it "the most important game in a decade" for the Minnesota faithful. How embarassing; it's laughable. It's too bad if you're a Gopher student or alumni, because your team was whipped. Minnesota just ain't competitive with the Big Ten's best -- and, as we saw today, the best is MSU.

On to football! ES will look at top matchups for Cap One Bowl a little more indepth later tonight... so tune in!

Conflicting Interests: Basketball vs Football

(2008 Dec 31)--The ES is first and foremost a huge college football fan, and a Spartan fan at that. Thusly, even though we have a huge men's hoops game today at noon between #10 MSU at #21 Minnesota, the ES is still in football mode with our huge matchup in the Capital One Bowl tomorrow. I'm just jacked up for our New Years Day gridiron matchup... but, if you have the time, tune into the Big Ten Network at Noon EST today to see MSU kick some Tubby Smith butt, with the Spartans sans Delvon Roe (ankle injury). The Daily Gopher predicts Minny 74-71. From the Barn predicts Minny 68-62. Ken Pomeroy predicts a 75-72 win by Minny. Hell, even the Lansing State Journal predicts a 75-72 win by Minny. Do we have a chance? Check out Spartans Weblog to find out.

The ES figures just when Minny thinks they're up, Sparty will knock them back down: 70-65. Then, back and more importantly into football mode.

ES Capital One Bowl Game Day: Can Overachieving MSU Beat Underachieving Georgia?

(2008 Dec 30)--Two days to kickoff! 15,000+ Spartan fans will cheer on the Big Green Machine in Orlando with Mickey Mouse.... can you dig it? Michigan State's defense will have its hands full. Georgia has a GREAT passing game to complement as solid rushing effort. Georgia will score plenty of points against an average MSU defense. If MSU can catch a few breaks, make plays on defense to get some turnovers -- it has a chance. But, this is also asking MSU to outperform Georgia here, to force Matt Stafford into early passes that aren't good. MSU's secondary can make plays and intercept, but they need pressure up front. Conversely, Georgia might have one of the best receiving corps in the nation - thusly, if the Green don't get to Stafford, the Green will get burned. Otis Wiley, you listening? Oh yeah, and that Knowshon Moreno guy. MSU has its hands full, here.

Bottom line - watch lots of offense in this game.... but Georgia will win the war of attrition. For complete game day analysis, preview, stats, matchups, injuries, two deeps, etc. visit ES GAME DAY

Gamedays at Biggby Coffee: The Enlightened Spartan Latte

(2008 Dec 29)--OK, step aside all you college sports bloggers. How many of you have had a coffee drink named after your blog?

Didn't think so. Ha!

So, the ES gets this email from Biggby Coffee Store #241 today:

"ES, you are MAN! I have been checking out your podcast and website for years now, and am thankful for all your great info and commentary. i used to work in a chicago law office so i was pretty bored most of the time, but thankfully i had your podcasts to help the week go by. now i own a biggby coffee shop in bloomfield hills, which is a whole lot more fun. this fall i created a latte in honor of the spartans, which i served to customers on the day of each game. i had to name it, so what better name then the 'Enlightened Spartan Latte!' keep up the great work!"

OK, the question the comes to mind is... is that an Irish Coffee???? Seriously, thanks for the props. If there are any bars or breweries out there that are similarly interested for making beer named after the ES website, that would rock... "ESIPA" would be a great pale ale; or "Enlightened Spartan Porter" wouldn't be so bad either...

The ES will get into a bit of his "disclaimer" below, but bottom line, we appreciate the SPARTAN SPIRIT. Let's do one better, and take any profits from the sale of said coffee and send it to the Spartan athletics scholarship fund. Maybe we can make Bloomfield Hills Biggby Coffee (1952 S. Telegraph Rd, phone: 248-253-6100) the Spartan coffee capital of the world! In turn, the ES might be able to put an add for the store on the ES website.... however,

However, there is something that needs to be dealt with first. Namely, a few years ago, the ES emailed the President of Beaners (Mike McFall) about receiving poor service and product out of a new driveup facility in Lansing - he responded on March 22, 2006. Very nice, he apologized and said he'd reimburse me and send some discounts to make up the error. Problem: The ES never received anything. Thusly, to make a point, the ES spends his money at Starbucks or Speedway instead. ... But, I still encourage other Spartan faithful to try the "ES Latte" on January 1 at the Biggby in Bloomfield Hills

Dantonio's New Structured, Competitive Deal Right For MSU

(2008 Dec 28)--Spartan Athletic Director Mark Hollis did the right thing by restructuring head football coach Mark Dantonio's salary to make it competitive and structured for the long-term with incentives for sticking around. His salary improved to $1.8 million annually, making it fourth-highest in the Big Ten behind Jim Tressel (OSU, $3.5m), Kirk Ferentz (Iowa, $3.4m), and Rich Rod (scUM, $2.5m). It includes a base salary of $618k, but supplemental income of $869k, 100k through apparel, and $200k each year if he is coach on June 30. Also, two excellent additions to the contract: 1) MD gets a $2 million pay check if he is still the coach in 2016; 2) allowing portions of his postseason bonus to be shared with his staff in addition to other staff pay raises. This defines the need for continuity of the whole staff and rewards success.

While it is strange the "other" is more than base income, it is the norm these days and the only way colleges can afford keeping coaches at their school while attempting some minimal semblance of integrity within the institutional pay structure. MSU needs to remain competitive... and until coaching salaries come under control via a collective response by institutions and/or faculty (the NCAA is ineffective here) -- or society -- the Spartans need to be a national player in the arms race that is college football, pony up, and reward success. The institutional identity from college football success, and the positive impact on campus/community climate, is too great to pass up. And, it pays off in so many other positive aspects to academics... far more I argue than the negatives.

But, the most important thing is this -- it was the right thing to do, and not just because of the success on the playing field. Sure, Dantonio has led MSU to a pair of consecutive winning seasons and bowl games, and a New Years Day bowl for the first time in a decade. And, MSU needs continuity after the revolving door of failure since George Perles left in 1994. Beyond all that, it is the demeanor, contribution, and value set of Dantonio to the Michigan State community. He is unlike the slap-happy personality and lack of discipline from John L Smith; unlike the he's-in-over-his-head and lack of discipline of Bobby Williams; unlike the lack of commitment of Nick Saban... MD was the perfect remedy to a reeling Spartan program at the perfect time. His values are what first come out of his mouth: you can only hope that when you get a coach that first values integrity, good character, discipline, education, and appreciation of others... that hopefully he can ALSO win a few games. It is a roll of the dice, and more often than not in recent years MSU has come up with snakeyes.

Prior to Mark Dantonio, MSU paid its dues of sub-mediocrity. One can't be a Spartan alum and not witness the overhaul changes in attitude and behavior, let alone wins and losses, since the Doctor's arrival. It is the proper time to reward success in victories, success in raising the profile and respect of MSU football, and to reward success in values. Congrats to Dantonio and his staff.... now go out there and BEAT GEORGIA!