Michigan State Football: Week 7 bout with Wisconsin could define 2019

EAST LANSING, MI - SEPTEMBER 24: Alex Hornibrook #12 of the Wisconsin Badgers is grabbed by Raequan Williams #99 of the Michigan State Spartans as he runs downfield during the game at Spartan Stadium on September 24, 2016 in East Lansing, Michigan. (Photo by Bobby Ellis/Getty Images)
EAST LANSING, MI - SEPTEMBER 24: Alex Hornibrook #12 of the Wisconsin Badgers is grabbed by Raequan Williams #99 of the Michigan State Spartans as he runs downfield during the game at Spartan Stadium on September 24, 2016 in East Lansing, Michigan. (Photo by Bobby Ellis/Getty Images) /
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Michigan State football travels to Wisconsin to resume a recent rivalry. Can the Spartans continue their surge through the Big Ten?

I currently have Michigan State undefeated at this point. Is this an actual possibility? The Spartans have the defense to make it happen, however, there are several ‘ifs’ that if they occur then it’s a strong possibility the Spartans head into Madison unbeaten.

Now I also, would not be surprised if Michigan State loses to either Ohio State or Northwestern. This is an early preview of these matchups and things could change quickly — I’m not talking injuries or depth chart battles.

Wisconsin is an interesting team. While the Badgers have Heisman-hopeful Jonathan Taylor coming back, they also have questions surrounding their offensive line and quarterback situation. The quarterback battle is between Jack Coan and Graham Mertz and ESPN has dubbed Mertz as Wisconsin’s “most hyped QB since Russell Wilson”.

Mertz was the No. 4 pro-style quarterback in the nation, per 247Sports, and a four-star prospect.

The Badgers may start with Coan and bring Mertz slowly along. Either way, the Spartan defense will take advantage of the transitions on the offensive line.

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Stopping the run is MSU’s speciality and the Spartans will key on Taylor. Making Wisconsin rely on the passing game will give the Spartans another win. Also, the Badgers have lost much talent on the defensive side of the ball such as losing linebacker T.J. Edwards to the NFL. There are too many transitions for Wisconsin and the Spartans have too much talent returning.

Prediction: Michigan State 24, Wisconsin 13