Michigan State Football: 5 bold predictions vs. Northwestern in Week 9

EAST LANSING, MI - OCTOBER 15: Runningback LJ Scott #3 of the Michigan State Spartans is upended by cornerback Montre Hartage #24 of the Northwestern Wildcats as safety Godwin Igwebuike #16 of the Northwestern Wildcats enters the play during the first half at Spartan Stadium on October 15, 2016 in East Lansing, Michigan. Northwestern defeated Michigan State 54-40. (Photo by Duane Burleson/Getty Images) /

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3. Clayton Thorson held under 150 yards passing

Just a season ago, Clayton Thorson had one of his best games against Michigan State. Despite throwing an early pick-six to Justin Layne, he rebounded to go 27-for-35 through the air with 281 yards and three touchdowns. He also added a rushing score en route to a 54-40 win at Spartan Stadium.

Michigan State’s defense remembers all of these shaky performances from a season ago, and it seems as if it has vowed to avenge them. They’ve done so against Michigan and Indiana thus far and Northwestern is next.

Thorson will be facing arguably the best secondary he’s opposed this season and it will take a mammoth effort from him if the Wildcats want to put some points on the board and beat the Spartans. However, Michigan State’s secondary will stymy him.

The junior has had an up-and-down season, throwing two picks in four of his last six outings and has been held up 150 yards twice. Michigan State will add another tally in his sub-150 yard performances Saturday and he will also throw two more picks. Rough day at the office for Thorson.

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