Michigan State Football: 5 reasons Spartans will beat Minnesota in Week 7

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ANN ARBOR, MI – OCTOBER 07: Brian Lewerke #14 of the Michigan State Spartans runs for a first down during the second quarter of the game against the Michigan Wolverines at Michigan Stadium on October 7, 2017 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Michigan State defeated Michigan 14-10.(Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images) /

3. Brian Lewerke’s dual-threat ability too much for Gophers

Minnesota hasn’t faced a quarterback quite like Brian Lewerke this season, and that will pay huge dividends for the Spartans. He’s one of the best dual-threats in the Big Ten and a rising star in college football. The closest thing to a dual-threat they have faced was Max Bortenschlager of Maryland who had just 18 yards and a touchdown on four carries.

They may not be completely ready for the Lewerke attack. In fact, the sophomore dual-threat leads the Spartans with 309 rushing yards and three touchdowns this season, averaging nearly six yards per touch. That will keep the Gophers on their toes and also keep them guessing.

The Gophers have a solid defense, but they also haven’t faced anyone near the level of Michigan State — although some would argue Purdue and Maryland are close. The Spartan offense is due for a breakout game, led by Lewerke.

I expect Lewerke to finish with over 350 yards of total offense and three touchdowns to lead the Spartans to victory. Minnesota will have a tough time containing him as he’ll leak out for first down runs when the pocket collapses. His ability will be too much for this defense.

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