Michigan State vs Purdue: Predicting the final score

Michigan State and Purdue will be facing off in the first Big Ten game of the year for both teams. Saturday’s Michigan State vs Purdue game might be a blowout, but Boilermakers’ head coach Darrell Hazell thinks he has a plan in place to upset the Spartans.

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The writers of Spartan Avenue don’t exactly agree. Let’s take a look at who we all think will win Saturday’s game and by how much.

Connor Muldowney: Michigan State will finally find its groove on the offensive side of the ball, recording 300 passing yards and 250-plus rushing yards in a nice blowout win. However, a late Purdue touchdown will prevent the Spartans from covering the spread once again. The secondary will bend, like always, but not break and Hazell leaves East Lansing looking foolish for thinking his Boilers could steal a victory.

Prediction: Purdue 17, Michigan State 35

Patrick Forrest: Michigan State tired of hearing the critiques of not playing to the potential of a true No. 2 and after hearing the pseudo smack talk come from Purdue coach Darell Hazell, they’ll come out and finally put together a full game.

Sep 19, 2015; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans receiver Aaron Burbridge (16) catches a touchdown pass against the Air Force Falcons during the 1st quarter of a game at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

The deep passing game is finally opened and Aaron Burbridge get back on track having 125 yards receiving. Montae Nicholson gets the message of being pulled last week and the secondary takes advantage of the defensive line giving the Purdue offense no time to operate on Homecoming at Spartan Stadium.

Prediction: Purdue 14, Michigan State 40

Thomas Nikundiwe: At some point, Darrell Hazell is going to have to pay for saying he knows how to scheme for MSU’s defense and for calling out MSU’s predictable offense. This will be the week. There is too much chatter out there about MSU being overrated and Michigan is getting too much love. Look for State to respond, and respond big.

Prediction: Purdue 10, Michigan State 45

Zachary Weber: After struggling during non-conference play, the Boilermakers turned to redshirt freshman David Blough, who threw for over 300 yards against Bowling Green. Once again, the Spartans will be facing a quarterback who has demonstrated an ability to throw it around the field.

This time, the secondary will be up to the test. After facing heavy criticism, Montae Nicholson and the corner back group will turn in their best game of the year. On offense, Connor Cook will lead a balanced attack and the offense will gain over 400 yards.

Prediction: Purdue 17, Michigan State 38

Evan Cruse: Unfortunately I see more of the same. I think the defense will bend a lot but won’t break. The offense will sputter out for great lengths unless they open the playbook, find another receiver and utilize the tight ends.

Prediction: Purdue 14, Michigan State 31

Daniel Gottschalk: Much like in past meetings, Purdue will play Michigan State surprisingly close considering the disparity of talent between the two teams. Purdue will once again attack the edges of Michigan State’s defense with bubble screens and slants, putting pressure on MSU’s safeties and linebackers.

Don’t be surprised if we see Demetrious Cox replace Montae Nicholson again if he struggles. After breaking his three-game 100-yard streak last week, Aaron Burbridge will once again break the century mark in another stellar performance against the 100th ranked Purdue passing defense.

Prediction: Purdue 21, Michigan State 38

Mike Vangheluwe: Michigan State is 0-4 against the spread, Purdue always plays the Spartans tough and MSU is still experimenting with the secondary. Mark Dantonio doesn’t care about Vegas spreads, style points or media scrutinizing his team regarding any of it, he cares about winning games and meeting goals, period.

This is a weaker team that gives no reason for us to open the playbook on. Play some freshmen, play different combos of linemen and secondary to build depth and hopefully no one else falls victim to injury. Save it for scUM and OSU.

Prediction: Purdue 13, Michigan State 28

Next: Michigan State vs Purdue: 5 bold predictions

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