Michigan State Football: 5 bold predictions vs. Central Michigan in Week 5

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TEMPE, AZ – SEPTEMBER 08: Quarterback Rocky Lombardi #12 of the Michigan State Spartans before the college football game against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Sun Devil Stadium on September 8, 2018 in Tempe, Arizona. The Sun Devils defeated the Spartans 16-13. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

1. Rocky Lombardi will play entire fourth quarter

We are going to see a lot of Rocky Lombardi on Saturday afternoon, and that’s good news for the green and white. Michigan State will have this game essentially decided by halftime and rather than risk a Central comeback, Mark Dantonio will leave Brian Lewerke in for the third quarter — mostly for run plays — and the Spartans will hand things over to Lombardi at the start of the fourth.

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What does the future look like under center? We are going to find out as the backup punter takes over and showcases that strong arm as well as his running ability — maybe we’ll even see the linebacker-sized passer truck a defender.

Michigan State will come away feeling good about the quarterback position and depth as Lombardi will complete 5-of-7 passes for 72 yards and his first career touchdown. He’ll look calm and poised in the pocket and he’ll show that even when Lewerke is gone, the Spartans will be set at quarterback.

Sure, it’s just Central Michigan, but having the redshirt freshman gain some confidence will be key in his development as a player.

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Michigan State’s going to come out on top in this one by at least four touchdowns.

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