Michigan State Football: Game-by-game predictions for 2018

EAST LANSING, MI - NOVEMBER 04: LJ Scott #3 of the Michigan State Spartans battles for yards past Manny Bowen #43 of the Penn State Nittany Lions during the second half at Spartan Stadium on November 4, 2017 in East Lansing, Michigan. Michigan State won the game 27-24. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

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COLUMBUS, OH – NOVEMBER 11: Mike Weber #25 of the Ohio State Buckeyes leaves the Michigan State defense behind as he completes a 47-yard touchdown run in the first quarter at Ohio Stadium on November 11, 2017 in Columbus, Ohio. (Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images) /

This has to be the game circled on every Spartan player and coach’s calendar. Ohio State took it to Michigan State last season in Columbus, embarrassing the Spartans 48-3.

If you think the Spartans are over that 45-point loss, you clearly don’t know anything about Mark Dantonio-coached teams. He will motivate his guys to get back at the Buckeyes and ensure that something like what happened in 2017 never takes place again.

Brian Lewerke will rebound from last year’s forgettable showing by throwing for 230 yards and two big scores, but LJ Scott will struggle on the ground much like he did last season. The offensive line will have a tough time opening holes for the senior running back all day long and that’ll add some pressure to Lewerke.

On the defensive side, the Spartans will hold Mike Weber and JK Dobbins in check with their strong run defense, but the secondary could struggle against the Buckeyes’ elite receivers and Dwayne Haskins.

This will be another classic game between the two newer rivals so don’t be surprised if this comes down to a field goal.

Final Score: Ohio State 27, Michigan State 24 (8-2, 5-2)

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