Michigan State Football: Game-by-game predictions for 2017

6 of 12

ANN ARBOR, MI – OCTOBER 17: Head coach Mark Dantonio of the Michigan State Spartans reacts on the sidelines during the second quarter of the college football game against the Michigan Wolverines at Michigan Stadium on October 17, 2015 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The Spartans defeated the Wolverines 27-23. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

There was a time when Minnesota could be chalked up as a win for Michigan State, but that’s not the case anymore, especially with P.J. Fleck as head coach. The Gophers return enough talent that a major drop off won’t be likely from last year’s 9-4 campaign. The key for Minnesota’s season will be getting something out of a new quarterback, whether it’s Demry Croft or Conor Rhoda.

Minnesota’s hope is that four returning offensive linemen will be enough to keep the new QB upright, as well as give Rodney Smith (1,158 yards, 16 TDs) and Shannon Brooks plenty of room to run. Playing in back-to-back road games, it’s going to be extremely tough for MSU to contain Smith.

To steal this one on the road, Minnesota’s quarterback will have to turn it over, while Brian Lewerke will need to take advantage of a mostly inexperienced secondary that has a lot of questions. LJ Scott and the ground game will only go so far against the Gophers, especially if Minnesota is controlling the clock with its rushing attack.

This is the type of game that will be difficult for the Spartans with the path to victory falling on Lewerke’s shoulders.

Score Prediction: Minnesota 28, Michigan State 24 (4-2, 1-2 Big Ten)

Home/Spartans Football