Auburn Tigers vs Michigan State Spartans Picks and Predictions March 30th 2025

Star freshmen shine as Auburn, Michigan State clash in South Region Final

The South Region Final has all the makings of an NCAA classic — No. 1 seed Auburn takes on No. 2 seed Michigan State with one thing on the line: a trip to San Antonio and a shot at the Final Four.

But while the headlines usually highlight the veterans this deep into March Madness, it’s a couple of high-impact freshmen stealing the show. Auburn’s Tahaad Pettiford and Michigan State’s Jase Richardson have become breakout stars when their teams needed them most.

Auburn (31-5) clawed its way past Michigan on Friday night after trailing by nine with just over 12 minutes left. That’s when Pettiford turned it on, scoring 15 of his 20 points in a blazing stretch to lead the Tigers to a 78-65 comeback win.

Tahaad Pettiford’s Star is Rising

Coach Bruce Pearl hasn’t held back in praising the 19-year-old guard, who has only started once all year but is now becoming a go-to weapon in March.

“I don’t think I’ve ever had a player this good who’s started just one game,” Pearl said. “He’s been playing up in age his whole life. That toughness? It shows.”

Pettiford is averaging 19.7 points per game during Auburn’s three NCAA wins. He’s supported by seasoned big man Johni Broome, who’s putting up 14.7 points and 13 rebounds per game, and Denver Jones, who dropped 20 against Michigan.

Auburn’s deep roster has propelled them to the winningest season in program history, and now they’re just one game away from their second Final Four under Pearl.

Want more March Madness updates? Visit the NCAAB Odds Page for the latest tournament lines.

Michigan State Brings Championship Pedigree

Meanwhile, the Spartans (30-6) overcame a tight contest against Ole Miss, riding a 14-2 second-half run to seize momentum. Jase Richardson — son of Michigan State legend and NBA vet Jason Richardson — poured in 20 points to lift MSU.

While comparisons to his dad come with the territory, Jase is carving his own path.

“We’re different players,” he said. “I don’t jump out of the gym like he did. I just try to go out there, play with joy, and win.”

Veteran coach Tom Izzo, in search of his ninth Final Four, knows what his young guard brings.

“He’s got poise. He doesn’t get rattled. That’s what we need this time of year.”

If you’re keeping tabs on team trends and expert betting tips, check out the College Basketball Picks Page for insight.

Key Matchup: Auburn’s Firepower vs. Michigan State’s Grit

This Final Four decider features contrasting styles: Auburn’s explosive offense versus Michigan State’s defensive discipline.

MSU will need to slow down not just Pettiford, but also Broome and Jones, who combined for 62 points against Michigan. Izzo hinted at mixing up his rotations, possibly inserting bigs like Szymon Zapala and Xavier Booker to match Auburn’s interior size and scoring.

“We’re not going to stop them,” Izzo admitted. “But if we can contain them, rebound, and run… we’ve got a shot.”

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X-Factors and What’s at Stake

For Auburn, it’s about continuing their historic run. For Michigan State, it’s about getting back to the Final Four for the first time since 2019.

Pettiford and Richardson — two players who weren’t expected to carry this much weight in March — are now front and center. One of them could be the difference between heartbreak and history.

Want to dive into more NCAA Tournament coverage?

• Explore team stats at the NCAAB Teams Page
• Check out tournament betting trends at the College Basketball Championship Odds Blog
• Learn more about player awards and futures at the John Wooden Award Odds Blog

Final Thoughts

Sunday’s South Region final has it all: legendary coaches, two of the country’s hottest freshmen, and everything on the line. The next stop? San Antonio — and a date with destiny.

Want to see how this all shakes out? Head over to the College Basketball Odds Page and stay locked in for tip-off.