Michigan State Football: Updated game-by-game predictions for 2020

A second straight winnable game? Absolutely, but this one won’t be easy because the Wildcats are coached by one of the best in the business in Pat Fitzgerald.

Northwestern had a horrid 2019 season with quarterback issues galore, including a disappointing performance from former five-star and Clemson transfer Hunter Johnson. Peyton Ramsey transferred in from Indiana and he’s a proven passer who could finish with 3,000-plus yards and he may be just what the offense needs.

The Wildcats did have a top 25 defense last season and it returns nine starters so there’s a good chance this will be a low-scoring affair.

Final Score: Northwestern 17, Michigan State 21 (2-1)

Michigan State’s battle with Penn State was ugly a season ago in East Lansing which was rare because these two teams usually play decent games.

The Nittany Lions smacked the Spartans around for four quarters, winning 28-7. Things might not get much prettier this season with Sean Clifford, Journey Brown and Pat Freiermuth back on offense as the ‘big three’ and a defense that returns four starters. Micah Parsons is rumored to have opted out of the 2020 season which will help the Spartans on offense.

Ultimately, Parsons’ decision won’t make much of a difference. Michigan State isn’t winning this one in Happy Valley.

Final Score: Michigan State 13, Penn State 34 (2-2)