Many computer models have MSU underrated because of the distribution of minutes Izzo employs against lesser teams.
At their best, with optimal lineups, they are insanely good.
The reason to be uneasy about their future, though, is the lack of depth. Big drop off from their top players to their bench. A couple of injuries and they're a different team. Still very good, but not the insanely elite team they are at full strength.
MSU doesn't get to the line much relative to other teams - the Gophers must make the Spartans shoot the ball from the field. A bad afternoon of shooting for MSU, nice eFG% effort from MN via 3FGM's and turnovers kept in reasonable check.. a win is possible. Most of all I think you just want your team to come out and compete well... a loss is acceptable. Getting demolished is not.