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

By Adam Zdroik | Aug 14, 2017

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) /

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EAST LANSING, MI – OCTOBER 15: Justin Layne #39 of the Michigan State Spartans returns an interception for a touchdown against the Northwestern Wildcats during the first half at Spartan Stadium on October 15, 2016 in East Lansing, Michigan. (Photo by Duane Burleson/Getty Images) /

This is where the schedule starts to pick up for Michigan State with its opponent again having a plethora of returning talent (16 starters). These teams were in a shootout last season with the Wildcats pulling away 54-40 in East Lansing.

This will be yet another test for the MSU defense as Northwestern brings back its quarterback in Clayton Thorson as well as stud running back Justin Jackson, who ran for 188 yards last year against the Spartans. Throw in four experienced offensive linemen and the odds will be long for the road team.

The only way Michigan State can upset Northwestern would be if the defense turned back into an elite unit. Otherwise, Northwestern could have its way again due to experience alone. And even if Brian Lewerke is having a good season, not many offenses go into Evanston and have success.

Even in an up-and-down 2016 season, Northwestern didn’t allow more than 24 points at home. If that’s the case again, Michigan State’s defense will need to be on its game.

Score Prediction: Northwestern 31, Michigan State 20 (5-3, 2-3 Big Ten)

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