Michigan State football and Western Michigan square off on Saturday. The Spartans are looking to stay unbeaten in their non-conference schedule.
This is not the same PJ Fleck-coached Western Michigan team from a year ago; it has a new, and first-time, head coach in Tim Lester. The Broncos hung in with USC until the fourth quarter in Week 1, too. The Broncos have proven to be as every bit as scrappy and tough as they were before. However, the Trojans toyed with the Broncos and it almost cost them the game.
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Several teams struggled in their season opener including Washington against Rutgers and Ohio State (for a half). It does take time for teams to get going.
This means that the Spartans cannot afford to come out like they did against Bowling Green. If they do then this could turn into a major upset. However, there is something different about this team already.
The Broncos ran the ball well and often against the Trojans, but this does play to the strength of the Spartan defense. Western Michigan passed for 67 yards on 22 attempts. Their quarterback, Jon Wassink, is athletic and if the Spartan pass rush does not contain him then he could burn them with his feet.
Wassink was a highly-touted quarterback for Grand Rapids (Mich.) South Christian. His poor performance could have much to do with playing on the big stage in California as well as it being his first start.
Albeit the Spartans will be ready for him with their new secondary that received a tune up against Bowling Green. Josiah Scott had Pro Football Focus’ highest ranked performance in the first week. The MSU secondary will be an x-factor in this game.
Here’s how to watch the game online:
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Date: Saturday, Sept. 9
Start time: 3:30 p.m. ET
Location: East Lansing, Mich.
Venue: Spartan Stadium
TV: Big Ten Network
Live Stream: BTN2Go
Keys to victory
Brian Lewerke will have to do what he did last week in order for the Spartans to separate themselves. He and Darrell Stewart proved to be a great tandem together. I anticipate that the Spartan defense will be able to keep the Broncos offense in check.
Mark Dantonio and MSU know all too well the playmaking ability that Darius Philips has on kickoffs. If the Spartans can keep him in check then they will have a good chance to win.
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Prediction
Lewerke will have another solid outing and this young receiving core is impressive. The Spartans will cut down on their mental errors from last week.
Final Score: Western Michigan 17, Michigan State 38