Michigan State did what Michigan State does - turn up the heat when it matters most.
In a game that started with more grit than glamour, the Spartans found their rhythm late and never looked back, pulling away from Oregon for a 68-52 win in Eugene. It wasn’t just a win - it was a statement. Michigan State outscored the Ducks by 15 over the final 10 minutes, closing out a two-game West Coast swing with their fifth straight double-digit victory.
Let’s break this one down.
The Spartans came out firing, building a quick nine-point lead just five minutes in. But that early burst gave way to a sluggish stretch, as Oregon clamped down defensively and slowed the pace.
Michigan State managed only 15 points over the final 15 minutes of the first half, and what looked like it might become a runaway turned into a grind. Still, the Spartans held a slim 28-26 edge at the break.
The second half? That was a different story.
For the first 10 minutes, it was a back-and-forth battle - two teams trading punches, neither able to land the knockout blow. But then Michigan State flipped the switch.
That trademark defensive intensity kicked in, and the Spartans began to impose their will. Oregon simply couldn’t keep up.
Over the final stretch, Michigan State’s defense smothered the Ducks while the offense found its groove.
Carson Cooper led the way with 19 points, showing off his touch around the rim and his ability to finish through contact. Coen Carr added 15, bringing energy and athleticism that Oregon never quite found an answer for. Jeremy Fears Jr. came alive late, finishing with 14 points, and Trey Fort delivered one of his most efficient performances of the season off the bench - 9 points on 4-of-5 shooting.
With this win, Michigan State improves to 17-2 on the season and 7-1 in Big Ten play. They’ve now rattled off five straight wins by double digits and extended their streak to 19 straight victories over unranked opponents. That’s the kind of consistency that keeps you in the national conversation.
Next up: a return to East Lansing, where the Spartans will host Maryland on Saturday. Tipoff is set for noon ET, and the game will air on CBS. If Michigan State keeps playing like this - locking down defensively and closing games with authority - they’ll be a tough out for anyone, anywhere.