And at times, both Michigan State basketball and Arkansas played with late-season precision and urgency. Coach Tom Izzo’s new-look group grew up in a hurry. Especially his two freshmen.

In a battle between two legendary head coaches on Saturday, it was Michigan State's Tom Izzo who prevailed over Arkansas' John Calipari,

The Arkansas Razorbacks couldn't keep Michigan State off the glass at East Lansing on Saturday, and that made the difference.

Michigan State had a narrow 21-10 edge on the boards, which included a 10-5 advantage in offensive rebounds and also forced Arkansas into 10 turnovers. The Spartans had 12 fast break points but also gave up 12 to Arkansas, which probably irritated Izzo immensely.

No. 22 Michigan State (1-0) is going to want this one against No. 14 Arkansas (1-0). Saturday's game, which begins at 7 p.m. ET on FOX, could be a tone-setter for the Spartans this season; that can be good or bad.

Michigan State plays four preseason top 25 teams in the non-conference portion of its schedule, and on Saturday MSU passed the first test The No. 22-ranked Spartans took down No. 14 Arkansas, 69-66, to improve to 2-0 on the young season.

Michigan State did not play well down the stretch, but the Razorbacks did not make a shot after the final media timeout.

In its second game of the season, Michigan State plays a ranked opponent at home this Saturday against Arkansas, a demanding game for its new players.