For Michigan State, Friday night vs Michigan is about channeling emotion
“It’s a rivalry,” Fears said. “But you can’t make it too big. Focus on the scouting report. Do your job.”
After the physical toll of a grinding road win earlier this week, No. 7-ranked Michigan State returns home Friday for a familiar collision with Michigan at the Breslin Center. It’s a matchup that’s circled long before conference schedules are released — and one that demands a different kind of readiness.
For senior captain Jaxon Kohler, the challenge begins with resetting after a bruising night.
“You put the fatigue and wear-and-tear behind you,” Kohler said after practice Thursday. “Mentally and physically, you’ve got to move on. This is where adrenaline takes over, and preparation matters even more.”
That shift is already evident. Kohler described a noticeable change in tone as the week progressed — a sharpening of focus that comes with understanding what this game represents.
