The Iowa Hawkeyes (7-1, 0-1) lost in Ben McCollum’s first Big Ten game, 71-52, to a daunting Michigan State team (8-0, 1-0) who looked every part of a top 10 team at home.
I’ll spare the full recap but it was extended scoreless droughts which kept the Hawkeyes from keeping this one closer, though they started out with a 5-0 lead, that was roughly the high point. Other silver linings for me was a fine defensive effort (more on that later) and the stretch in the first half where McCollum turned Brendan Hausen loose for 7 points on 3 straight possessions (It closed the gap to 10 with 2:28 remaining in the frame).
But yeah, the first half droughts: 6:03, 3:42 (13-point MSU run), & 4:06 crossing over halftime. That’s the game.
That just about does it for me. I had a bit of optimism coming in for tonight’s game but the ultimate takeaway for me is that this Michigan State team is really freaking good. Breslin Center has been a House of Horrors for the better part of 3 decades, save for a stretch under Fran where Iowa won something like 2 of 3 vs substandard Michigan State squads. It will be difficult for anyone to go into East Lansing and come out with a victory this season.
Next up: Saturday, 12/6 vs Maryland