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.

Everything you need to know in order to watch the Michigan State Spartans take on the Illinois Illini on Sunday, Jan. 19.

Illinois freshman Will Riley beats Michigan State’s Carson Cooper to a rebound in the first half of Sunday’s Big Ten rock fight in East Lansing, Mich. College/Prep Sports Reporter Illinois freshman Will Riley beats Michigan State’s Carson Cooper to a rebound in the first half of Sunday’s Big Ten rock fight in East Lansing,

After going down early, Michigan State basketball survived a nail-biter vs. Illinois to stay undefeated and alone at the top if the Big Ten.

Tre Holloman had 17 points, including two free throws in the closing seconds, Coen Carr and Frankie Fidler scored 11 each and No. 12 Michigan State held on to beat No. 19 Illinois 80-78 on Sunday. The Spartans (16-2,

No. 12 Michigan State men's basketball was able to best No. 19 Illinois in what was one of its toughest tests of the season.