Michigan State vs Oregon: 5 bold predictions

Sep 5, 2015; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks running back Royce Freeman (21) runs the ball Eastern Washington Eagles in the first drive at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports

5. Michigan State will stall Royce Freeman

Michigan State’s run defense was ranked No. 1 in the nation a season ago and it proved that it hadn’t taken any steps back, giving up just 18 rush yards against Western Michigan in week one.

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While it may not seem like an impressive feat that only 18 rushing yards were surrendered, the Spartans held 2014 Freshman All-American running back Jarvion Franklin in check. Western Michigan’s offense was no slouch and Franklin had over 1,500 yards and 20-plus touchdowns a season ago.

Royce Freeman didn’t exactly light Michigan State up last year for a bunch of yards, recording just 89, but he was in just his second collegiate game as a starting running back.

The difference between last year’s game and this year’s is that the Spartans’ front-four might be even stronger and Royce Freeman has a year of experience under his belt.

Michigan State will hold the Heisman candidate in check for most of the game, giving up a couple bigger runs later on in the game due to a bit of fatigue in the trenches. He will finish with less than 75 yards on the ground and score just one touchdown.

Next: 4. London/Scott both have 100-plus yards