Michigan State Football: 5 reasons Spartans will beat Washington State

4. Plenty of problems in Washington State’s pass game

The passing game for Washington State has a plethora of issues. Let’s start with the blocking shortcomings. The offensive line has allowed 44 sacks this season, 39 to Luke Falk, which is the fifth-most in college football. Expect the Spartans to dial up plenty of blitzes to get after Falk and get into the backfield to force some errant throws.

On top of that, the top two receivers had requested transfers before the game and, in turn, won’t be with the team. Tavares Martin Jr. caught 70 passes for 831 yards and nine touchdowns this season while Isaiah Johnson-Mack had 60 receptions for 555 yards and five scores. Those will be two big losses for the Cougars.

Lastly, there are rumors that Luke Falk had surgery on his wrist and might not be available to play in the Holiday Bowl. He was seen with a cast on his left wrist but Mike Leach hasn’t released any details about the injury or if his star quarterback will play in the bowl game.

All of these will make the passing game that much more difficult for Leach. If Falk plays, the Spartans’ rush will get after his constantly and in order to remain healthy, he will be forced into some uncomfortable throws and could be a turnover machine.