Michigan State Football: Ranking 2019 opponents by toughness

And here we are. No. 1 on the list of toughest games for 2019 has to be Ohio State because that’s what it seems to be every season — with the exception of Michigan a couple of times.

The Buckeyes have been a thorn in every Big Ten team’s side over the past couple of decades and just because Urban Meyer has given way to Ryan Day, that doesn’t mean this game gets any easier, especially since it’s in Columbus.

The last time Michigan State marched into Columbus and stole a victory from the Buckeyes was 2015 which was the season the Spartans made the College Football Playoff. Can we see the same thing happening this time around? It’s possible, but it would take a nearly flawless effort.

Justin Fields has taken over at quarterback for Dwayne Haskins which could pay off for the Buckeyes or it could turn out to be a disaster — he has major shoes to fill. He is surrounded by plenty of weapons, so he should be just fine.

That Buckeye defense, too, should be good again with Chase Young leading the way and talent with former four and five-star kids at every position. If the Spartans plan on winning the Big Ten, they’ll have to take down Goliath.