Here's what Chris Holtmann said after Ohio State's victory over Michigan State

Ohio State coach Christ Holtmann was understandably pleased after the Buckeyes’ 79-62 win over Michigan State on Sunday.

Sophomore forward E.J. Liddell continued his hot streak, scoring 20 points for the fourth time in his last five games. Overall, OSU shot 45.5 percent from the field and narrowly won the rebounding battle (39-38).

One thing that jumps off the box score from this game: free throws. The two teams combined to shoot 60 free throws in this contest, making 23 apiece.

Holtmann was careful not to criticize the officials after the game, but did say OSU games have been called “tighter” recently.

“I don’t know to explain this, both crews the last two games have been really good crews but the game has been called differently,” he told reporters after the game. “It’s been called tighter.”

Aside from Liddell, Ohio State was led by guard Justice Sueing. He scored 17 points on an efficient seven shots and made 9-of-10 free throws. Holtmann complimented his growth after the game.

“He’s getting tougher,” Holtmann said of the Cal transfer. “He certainly didn’t come in with that reputation, but he’s a physical, talented kid.”

Duane Washington Jr. didn’t have as good of a day as some of his teammates — eight points on 10 shots — but Holtmann still preached confidence in him.

“Duane is obviously going through a spell of inefficiency, but everybody understands how good a shooter he is and how he can take over a game,” he said.

Here are some other comments from Holtmann after the game:

"Meechie's gonna be a terrific player," Holtmann said about Meechie Johnson Jr. "He's done such great things for this group already."

— Lantern Sports (@LanternSports) January 31, 2021

"I love this group, I love coaching this group," Holtmann said.

— Lantern Sports (@LanternSports) January 31, 2021

#Buckeyes coach Chris Holtmann, on Musa Jallow playing more today than recently: "Bottom line is, Musa practiced well the last couple days. He’s practiced well in the past, but we felt him in practice."

— Adam Jardy (@AdamJardy) January 31, 2021

Holtmann said Ohio State had some sloppy possession in the second half and “we just have to be better.” He said sometimes that happens when you’re playing a talented team but emphasized his guys have to do certain things better.

— Patrick Murphy (@_Pat_Murphy) January 31, 2021

"I thought we were able to make it difficult for them in transition," Holtmann said about the Ohio State defense. "Overall, we did some things defensively that were good."

However, Holtmann said the Buckeyes fouled just a bit too much.

— Lantern Sports (@LanternSports) January 31, 2021