Michigan State and North Carolina reignite their hoops rivalry with both squads aiming to prove they belong among college basketball’s elite. Can Jeremy Fears, the nation’s leading assist man, unlock the Spartans’ offense against the Tar Heels’ imposing length and top-ranked field goal defense led by freshman sensation Caleb Wilson? Matt Sheehan and Isaac Schade break down why this high-stakes Thanksgiving showdown could decide more than just bragging rights.

Key insights include Michigan State’s physical identity under Tom Izzo, the impact of transfer additions for North Carolina, and which team is better equipped to withstand the four-game gauntlet of marquee non-conference clashes. The hosts debate the X-factors—Coen Carr’s athleticism, Cam Ward’s emergence, and the significance of Seth Trimble’s injury—while predicting who will seize the edge in this razor-close matchup. Which powerhouse program takes a statement win into the heart of the season?

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Michigan State Spartans fans left reeling as Jonathan Smith’s coaching future remains a mystery. With recruiting losses mounting and key decisions from MSU leadership shrouded in silence, can Smith weather the storm or is a dramatic change on the horizon? Matt Sheehan and Stephen Brooks unravel the confusing saga, spotlighting uncertainty around Smith’s return, the impact on recruiting, and growing fan frustration driving the conversation.

The discussion intensifies as Smith’s coaching staff faces mounting pressure ahead of signing day, with financial backing and roster construction raising new questions. Are MSU’s struggles in the Big Ten just a matter of missing pieces or the sign of deeper problems? Stephen Brooks provides insider perspectives on potential outcomes, locker room dynamics, and the implications of Michigan State’s next move. Spartan Nation’s future hangs in the balance – will transparency and strategy restore hope or spark a full-scale reset?

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Omaha Steaks
Save big on unforgettable gifts with Omaha Steaks. Visit https://OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off site-wide and an extra 20% off select favorites during their Cyber Sale.
And for an additional $35 off, use promo code COLLEGE at checkout.

Wayfair
Don’t miss out on early Black Friday deals.
Head to https://Wayfair.com now to shop Wayfair’s Black Friday sale for up to 70% off.Sale ends December 7th.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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MSU basketball absolutely steamrolls Baylor in a game that features the Spartans best version of itself -- a team with defensive tenacity, physicality on the boards, great performances by seniors Tyson Walker and AJ Hoggard and more.

We are then joined by Chase Glasser of Spartans Illustrated to breakdown what defensive coordinator Joe Rossi will bring to the table, what players will thrive in his system and more.

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