Michigan State vs. Butler Prediction and Odds: Sparty Prepared to Handle the Bulldogs

Michigan State is looking for a bounce-back performance. Not a bounce-back game mind you, but a bounce-back season.

Last year was the worst in Tom Izzo’s storied career with the Spartans; finishing with a 15-13 record and 9-11 in conference play. It was the first time they failed to finish above .500 in the Big Ten since 1997. So yeah, not a great season. 

The Butler Bulldogs had it even worse last season with an 8-12 record in conference play and finished second to last in front of DePaul. 

One sign that the Spartans have put last season behind them was their opening night game against Kansas. Despite losing 87-74, this was a game that the Spartans would have gotten blown out in last season. So, while there are still kinks to work out, I think the Spartans are heading in the right direction. They followed that game up with a drubbing of WMU 90-46 and easily covered the 25-point spread. 

Here are the odds for this Big Ten vs Big East showdown courtesy of WynnBET: 

Michigan State vs. Butler Odds, Spread, and Total

Spread:

• Michigan State: -3.0 (-110)
• Butler: +3.0 (-110)

Moneyline:

• Michigan State: -160
• Butler: +135

Total: 

• 131.5 (Over -110/Under -110)

Michigan State vs. Butler Prediction and Pick

While MSU is 1-1 on the season, they have at least played a tough opponent to start the season. Butler is not quite ready for a team as physical and skilled as MSU this early into the season despite having a 3-0 record. Those wins came against IUPU, Troy, and Central Arkansas. Those three teams have a grand total of two wins and seven losses between them and are not exactly powerhouse programs. 

Butler is decent and should have a better year than last. But beating an MSU team that ranks No. 13 in adjusted efficiency might be out of their reach. I believe that the Spartans are better equipped and better prepared for this game. I think the loss to Kansas helped them and I think they win this game pretty easily and cover the small spread. 

Pick: Michigan State -3 (-110)