Michigan State got back to its winning ways Saturday afternoon with an 85-52 blowout over Arkansas Pine Bluff.

After struggling mightily against Notre Dame, the Spartans were able to use their superior size and athleticism to beat the Lions handily.

Branden Dawson continued coach Tom Izzo’s call to step up for this team against UAPB, scoring 12 points to go with seven rebounds. Travis Trice, Bryn Forbes, Marvin Clark Jr. and Matt Costello also scored double digits. Costello and Trice tied for a team-high 15.

There were some good signs for Michigan State. The team assisted on 90% (27-30) of its field goals and was able to score effectively in transition. But turnovers were once again an issue. The team committed 18 turnovers in the game with 13 of them coming in the second half. MSU now averages 13.5 giveaways per game through its first nine games.

Izzo said after the game that freshman Javon Bess is unlikely to play in the Spartans’ next game against Oakland. That game takes place in one week at the Breslin Center. Game time is scheduled for 8 p.m.

Andrew Hayes is the host of Impact Izzone for Impact Sports

Photo: David Defever/Impact Sports