Michigan State Football: 5 reasons Spartans will beat Maryland in Week 12

EAST LANSING, MI - OCTOBER 21: Defensive end Jacub Panasiuk #96 of the Michigan State Spartans is congratulated by his brother, defensive tackle Mike Panasiuk #72 of the Michigan State Spartans, after sacking quarterback Peyton Ramsey of the Indiana Hoosiers for a 4-yard loss during the first quarter at Spartan Stadium on October 21, 2017 in East Lansing, Michigan. Michigan State defeated Indiana 17-9. (Photo by Duane Burleson/Getty Images) /

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2. Brian Lewerke will bounce back in a big way

The second start of Brian Lewerke’s young career came against these Maryland Terrapins a year ago in College Park. He was held in check, completing just 11-of-24 passes for just over 150 yards and an interception. He looked visibly uncomfortable in the pocket and it was a major learning experience for the then-freshman.

Now, as a sophomore, Lewerke has grown into one of the best quarterbacks in the conference. He has put that loss to the Terrapins, and a couple of other tough showings, behind him and has gotten better seemingly every week this year.

After probably the worst game of his career, though, Lewerke needs to bounce back. Saturday’s game against Maryland will tell us a lot about this young kid and his resilience. He was embarrassed against the Buckeyes, but he will show off against the Terps.

Lewerke is going to have a big game against a mediocre Maryland defense, passing for 275 yards and two scores while rushing for another 50. Another week with over 300 all-purpose yards added to his resume — his third in four games. Not a bad bounce-back performance.

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