Michigan State Football: 4 keys to victory over Wisconsin

Michigan State football travels to Madison to take on Wisconsin Saturday. Can the Spartans bounce back after their backbreaking loss to Ohio State?

Last week was expected against the vaunted Ohio State Buckeyes. However, the number of penalties and dropped passes destroyed any chance MSU could have had.

In my way-too-early preview in the summer, I had Michigan State beating the Badgers. However, Wisconsin has looked good thus far, but it is difficult to tell because their level of competition was been subpar.

Yes, Michigan is in the top 25, but outside of Wisconsin, the Wolverines have played nobody. The Wolverines’ offensive line woes and turnovers, as well as a defense that was constantly out of position, led to their defeat.

The Spartans have shot themselves in the foot continually this season, however, if (this is a big if) they can shore up these mental mistakes then they have a good shot to beat the Badgers.

How do the Spartans beat Wisconsin?

1. Wide receivers have to catch the passes. Yes, some passes have been behind them, but this is college football and you have to make those plays at this level. South Florida had receivers open against the Badger zone defense.
2. Quarterback Brian Lewerke needs to get the ball out of his hands quickly and must sell the play-action pass to suck up the linebackers.
3. The defense must slow Wisconsin running back Jonathan Taylor down. He is a generational talent and stopping him might prove too difficult of a task. However, they will need to prevent him from getting his current 7.0 yards per carry.
4. Make Jack Coan beat you.

My prediction? Michigan State wins 21-20. I honestly can make a case either team winning this one. On a side note, is it just me or does anyone else think that Wisconsin head coach Paul Chryst looks like the guy who was on Mike and Molly, Billy Gardell?