Michigan State knocks out Illini in battle for first place

"We talked about playing the best here in the league in this stretch to see if we're ready for it," Illinois coach Bruce Weber said. "Today, we weren't. You go home. You have to deal with a team that plays hard if not harder, probably more physical. How do you react?

"It's not going to be easy. It's a test for our team to see how much progress we make."

Supinie