The most significant matchup of the early Big Ten season also proved to be its best, as No. 12 Michigan State outdueled, outlasted or maybe just survived a slugfest with No. 19 Illinois, hanging on for an 80-78 win Sunday at the Breslin Center in East Lansing.

Facing its toughest test of the conference season Sunday, the No. 12 Michigan State men’s basketball team (16-2, 7-0 Big Ten) won a tightly contested game against No. 19 Illinois, 80-78 at Breslin Center. Taking advantage of foul trouble and making a number of finishes under contact and pressure, the Spartans remain atop the Big Ten standings.

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Kasparas Jakucionis and the Illini intrigue catching points vs. the Spartans today. Our college basketball betting picks favor Illinois' balanced offensive attack.

The Maryland Terrapins will host the Nebraska Cornhuskers for a Big Ten clash on Sunday where both teams are in need of a victory. Maryland is 13-5 on the season and 3-4 in conference play, while Nebraska is 12-5 and 2-4 in the league.