DEFENSE: B
Tom Izzo said after the game that Nebraska is really good at shutting down the dribble drive. That isn't always true but it sure was tonight.
While Michigan State did score 73 and shoot 51%, which are both numbers that will get Nebraska beat on just about any night in existance, the Huskers were still good on "D". Michigan State made most open shots and even some contested ones but even more than that, they got several of those points off of offensive rebounds and extra possessions, so the defense itself was better than those numbers indicate.
Gotta give props to the Spartans, who had an answer every single time it seemed the Huskers were about to take a lead. They ALWAYS made a key shot. ALWAYS had an answer. That's what good teams do on the road.
They also made 10 of their first 11 FT's and made 23-29 (79%) for the game, which was a HUGE difference.
REBOUNDING: D
Nebraska was out rebounded by eighteen (42 to 24). That is truly bad.
However, to NU's credit, they did secure 11 offensive boards of their own.
Obviously major kudos again to Shields for grabbing 13 Rodman's.
Hard to be upset at NU tonight when MSU has superior athletes and size, plus they can throw Husker players around as if they're rag dolls, and never be called for fouls.
BALL HANDLING: A
7 turnovers to 9 assists. You'd like to see the assists higher but the turnover number is perfect.
Once again, I thought Benny Parker played well and continues to improve. His numbers are nothing spectacular (2 points, 1 rebound, 1 assists, 2 turnovers in 15 minutes) but I feel like anyone with an eye for basketball can't deny he is getting better and showing potential. I don't understand the hate for him around here that many continue to demonstrate.
COACHING: A
I'm not afraid to admit it. I have a man crush on Tim Miles. If he and I were on the Titanic and it was sinking, I'd send him on the life boat. (Too soon?)
Seriously, this guy has me jazzed up beyond belief about the future of this program. He has winner written all over him. He's got limitless energy. He can relate to his players and potential players. He can recruit. He can win over a room and fan base. And most of all, he can flat out coach.
He fights for his players. He works it hard on the sidelines. Boundless energy. Makes adjusments in game. Knows how to motivate. On and on and on.
I also dropped $120 tonight on the grey coaches sweat suit he always wears tonight so I'm even more stoked.
OVERALL GRADE: B+
Nebraska went toe to toe (for 30 minutes) with a legit Top 10 team who I thought played pretty well. That is a good sign.
They did this with essentially six players (since Almeida didn't show up) and with Gallegos having the worse shooting night of the season/his career.
Yes, I'd say the future looks bright.
PLAYER OF THE GAME: DYLAN TALLEY & SHAVON SHIELDS
2012-2013 PLAYER OF THE GAME RESULTS:
RAY GALLEGOS - 9
DYLAN TALLEY - 7
BRANDON UBEL - 5
SHAVON SHIELDS - 4
DAVID RIVERS - 3
JORDAN TYRANCE - 1
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