Central Michigan vs Michigan State: 5 storylines to follow

Sep 12, 2015; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans running back LJ Scott (3) stiff arms Oregon Ducks linebacker Joe Walker (35) during a touchdown run in the fourth quarter at Spartan Stadium. Spartans beat the Ducks 31-28. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

2. Will the run game assert itself?

Earlier I had mentioned the offensive line as a unit that really struggled last week against Air Force and the week before against Oregon, for that matter. The run game struggled as well because of the inability to open holes, despite there sometimes being 10 guys in the box, but the struggle against Oregon — outside of two big runs — proves there should be no excuses.

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Leaving much to be desired last week with a 1.8 yards per carry average, the Spartans’ usually-potent rushing attack was lacking electricity.

L.J. Scott wasn’t as exciting as he once was as he didn’t have time to bounce the ball back outside when getting hit immediately after receiving handoffs. Madre London is a physical runner, but he also has a bit of shiftiness to his game — that was non-existent last week.

Can Michigan State’s run game put its first really poor performance of the season behind them and break out in a big way against the Chips? All signs are pointing to yes as the MSU offensive line should just manhandle Central Michigan defenders.

I’m calling a big day for Scott and London as they combine for 200 yards.

Next: 1. Will Aaron Burbridge continue to rise?