When you see Michigan State fans passing on the sidewalk this week, get ready: Someone, almost instinctively, will shout, "Go Green!" Everyone else will yell, "Go White!" The chant is ubiquitous, and far louder, inside arenas and stadiums. Michigan State fans expect success — they've made the NCAA tournament every year since 1996-97, including eight trips to the Final Four under coach Tom Izzo. Even their mascot, muscle-bound Sparty, is imposing. He has won a few championships himself at national mascot competitions. Not even kidding.

JOE CHRISTENSEN