Wolverines, Spartans take the court at the Palace of Auburn Hill - ABC 12 – WJRT – Flint, MI

(03/21/13) - One down and one to go as this first day of March Madness kicks off in our state.

Michigan State will advance after powering through their first round game at the Palace of Auburn Hills. The Spartans beat Valpraiso 65 to 54.

Michigan takes on South Dakota State at 7:15 p.m. at the Palace.

Fans were piling into restaurants and sports bars to cheer on their favorite team, Thursday.

We stopped by Buffalo Wild Wings while the MSU game was on, and fans were packed in the bar, all eyes glued on the TVs. A lot of people took an extended lunch to come and watch the Spartans win.

"It's their year, they're going to the final four for sure," said Jason Cage, MSU fan.

"Actually in my bracket I have them losing in the Sweet 16, but I would still sacrifice that for them to go all the way," said Alexa Kalakay, MSU fan.

"Gives us a little break from work, we're doing a little business, but having some fun at the same time," said Dennis Aulbrook, MSU fan.

We also ran into some Wolverine fans earlier - they told us they are rooting for MSU, as long as Michigan isn't playing them.

They're excited to see what happens later Thursday when they take on South Dakota State. Some said they plan to come right back to Buffalo Wild Wings to watch that game.

"I came to check state out, see what they're all about, but it's all about Michigan wolverines," said Damarcus Burke, who was waiting for U of M game.

"I have Michigan in the Final Four, but I had to bet with my wallet and not my heart. I wish I could put them in the winning, but I have Miami going all the way," said Dusty Schunter, who was watching MSU game.

Typically, you wouldn't see a restaurant so full on a weekday afternoon. Servers are seeing a big boost to their bottom line.