Michigan and MSU near epic Elite 8 rivalry battle
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MSU's Jaden Akins battles for a loose ball against U of M on March 9. Photo: Rey Del Rio/Getty Images
After surviving March Madness' first weekend, the Spartans and Wolverines are each one win away from an unprecedented rivalry game in Atlanta.
Why it matters: If both teams win their games on Friday, they'll play each other in the NCAA Tournament on Sunday for the first time ever with a spot in the Final Four on the line.
What they're saying: "Rematch against Michigan State, what is that, Elite Eight?" Michigan's Roddy Gayle Jr. told the Free Press. "Possibly would be one of the greatest games ever, especially with what we've been through recently. I can't wait for that (if it happens)."
Flashback: The Spartans won both rivalry games earlier this season and have won seven of the last 10 matchups going back to 2021.
State of play: The NCAA Tournament selection committee set the stage for maximum Friday night drama by placing both teams in Atlanta for the Sweet 16.
- The Spartans play Ole Miss at 7:09pm.
- U of M plays top-seeded Auburn afterwards, at 9:39pm.
- Both games are at State Farm Arena, home of the Atlanta Hawks, and are being broadcast on CBS.
The intrigue: Tickets for Michigan State's game are also good for Michigan-Auburn.
Yes, but: They're going for more than $500 on the secondary market for nosebleed seats. Most lower bowl tickets are well over $1,000.
- As of Monday night, nonstop roundtrip flights on Delta — leaving Friday and returning Monday — were more than $600. Hotel rooms for three nights starting Friday were mostly in the $150-$200 range per night.
Between the lines: Spartans and Wolverines fanbases are known to travel well, but their opponents are southern schools with large groups of fans who are also likely to make the trip.
- Auburn is less than two hours south of State Farm Arena.
Follow the money: Sports betting markets give the Spartans a better chance to win on Friday.
- MSU was a 3.5-point favorite on Fanduel Monday, while U of M was a 7.5-point underdog.
Zoom out: The men's teams are the last surviving local teams in March Madness.
- N.C. State eliminated Michigan State's women's team Monday, 83-49.
- Notre Dame ended the Michigan women's season on Sunday.