Michigan State Football: Way-too-early 2020 game-by-game predictions

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EVANSTON, ILLINOIS – SEPTEMBER 21: Drake Anderson #6 of the Northwestern Wildcats tries to avoid Dominique Long #9 of the Michigan State Spartans at Ryan Field on September 21, 2019 in Evanston, Illinois. Michigan State defeated Northwestern 31-10. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /

Northwestern took about five steps back last season after making the Big Ten title game a couple of years ago, but Pat Fitzgerald will have his team back on track in 2020. The Wildcats’ season won’t get off to the best start, though, as Mel Tucker will take the field for the first time as Michigan State’s head coach and take care of business as well.

The Wildcats’ offense will continue to struggle early in the season as the Spartans’ defense lives up to some offseason hype with a loaded coaching staff and gives up just one touchdown.

Final Score: Northwestern 13, Michigan State 24 (1-0, 1-0 Big Ten)

Already with a Big Ten victory on their hands, the Spartans hit the road in Week 2 to take on a BYU team that may not be all that special next season, but the Cougars are tough to beat in Provo.

Michigan State’s first taste of the road will be sour as it’ll be sent packing with a tough loss in the final minutes. The Spartans will lead for the better part of four quarters in a tight game, but BYU will score a late touchdown to secure the victory as the Michigan State offense will have no answer.

Final Score: Michigan State 20, BYU 21 (1-1)

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