Champaign, Ill. – Michigan State had proven at least one thing as it reeled off seven straight victories – it was figuring out how to close out games and earn some tough victories.
The Spartans did that last weekend at home against Michigan and on Tuesday at No. 18 Wisconsin.
So, when Michigan State had a nine-point lead with a chance to extend it to double digits early in the second half Friday at Illinois, it seemed it was in perfect position to bring home an eight straight win.
The Fighting Illini, though, had other ideas.