An incensed Tom Izzo called Michigan State basketball's second-half defensive issues "a problem" after surviving Penn State for a 10th straight win

Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo had high praise for the Spartans' next opponent, the Illinois Fighting Illini.

No. 12 Michigan State found a way to win over Penn State on Wednesday, but based on what Coach Tom Izzo had to say after, you would have thought the Spartans lost.

Columnist Graham Couch gives his thoughts on Michigan State's performance Wednesday night in a narrow victory over Penn State with three quick takes.

Leading Michigan State (15-2, 6-0 Big Ten) in points, in rebounds and even a little bit in spirit, Fidler paced a precarious win against Penn State (12-6, 2-5). He finished with a season-high 18 points, as well as a team-leading seven rebounds. Most importantly, he finished with a heavy dose of confidence.

No. 12 Michigan State was led by senior forward Frankie Fidler in its win over Penn State on Wednesday. The veteran wing scored a season-high 18 points while grabbing a team-high seven boards.