Air Force vs Michigan State: Predicting the final score
The Air Force vs Michigan State game on Saturday might be an underrated matchup because of the fact that the Falcons’ starting quarterback is out for the season, but never underestimate the power of a strong run game — especially when it’s this deceptive.
Related: Air Force vs Michigan State: 5 bold predictions
Michigan State will have to go up against a fierce triple-option offense and the Spartans may not be used to this kind of look from the opposition.
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How will they fare in week three? The writers of Spartan Avenue weigh in to give their predictions on final score and what will take place on Saturday.
Connor Muldowney: This one might be a little closer than people think — at first. It will take the Spartans a quarter to adjust to the triple-option attack, but once the fixes are made, it will be smooth sailing for the defense — especially the secondary who won’t have to see much of a passing attack [luckily].
If MSU can limit its mistake in special teams play and continue the offensive supremacy, the Spartans will walk away from this one 3-0.
Prediction: Air Force 17, Michigan State 38
Evan Cruse: Air Force will bust a run late in the game, but I don’t see its offense being very well suited to go up against MSU’s front-seven. Expect Geiger to struggle again but the kickoff coverage will be good. L.J. Scott will lead all rushers with 90 yards.
Prediction: Air Force 7, Michigan State 38
Zachary Weber: After two average scoring games for a strong offense, the Spartans will move the ball up and down the field against the Falcons, giving Tyler O’Connor and Damion Terry important reps for next season.
Sep 12, 2015; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans running back LJ Scott (3) runs for a touchdown against the Oregon Ducks during the fourth quarter at Spartan Stadium. Spartans beat the Ducks 31-28. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports
Aaron Burbridge will continue his impressive start and L.J. Scott will lead the rushing attack, resulting in a co-starter designation with Madre London in week four. The defense will give up a few long runs, and maybe an unexpected reception, but it will be a tough day for the Air Force offense.
Prediction: Air Force 13, Michigan State 45
Thomas Nikundiwe: In a game closer than anticipated, State will score pretty easily but the open-field tackling continues to be an issue leading to a couple big runs by Air Force.
The backup defensive linemen will miss some assignments but the starters will come in to close the game late. The offensive line takes command in the final drive allowing the Spartans to run out the clock with Dantonio taking a knee rather than running it up versus a service academy.
Prediction: Air Force 28, Michigan State 42
Daniel Gottschalk: Michigan State’s front-seven will thwart Air Force’s triple-option thanks to Ron Burton’s inside knowledge of the offense in addition to a severe talent advantage.
Connor Cook will have an efficient first half while L.J. Scott and Madre London rack up serious yards on the ground. Michigan State fans may get their first chance to see backup QBs Tyler O’Connor and Damion Terry get a significant amount of playing time this season. Will this be the game we finally see Delton Williams?
Prediction: Air Force 14, Michigan State 38
Patrick Forrest: Michigan State comes out strong showing no signs of a hangover. With the box stacked early Connor Cook and Aaron Burbridge take to the air to establish an early lead.
Trying to play catch-up the Falcons force pitches in there triple-option attack allowing the defense to make sound plays and cause several turnovers. In the second half, the Michigan State offensive line takes over, wearing down Air Force the Spartans are able to gain large chunks of yards with running back stand outs Madre London and L.J. Scott.
The Falcons add a score late against the second team but it is far to little as Michigan State marches on.
Prediction: Air Force 14, Michigan State 31