Michigan State Football: 3 bold predictions vs. Youngstown State

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Sep 3, 2021; Evanston, Illinois, USA; Michigan State Spartans quarterback Payton Thorne (10) passes the ball against the Northwestern Wildcats during the first quarter at Ryan Field. Mandatory Credit: Jon Durr-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Payton Thorne throws three touchdown passes

Payton Thorne had a nearly flawless opening performance, completing 60 percent of his passes for 185 yards and a touchdown. He didn’t throw any picks or make any poor decisions that could have led to turnovers, which makes me believe he just needs more opportunities to prove his worth.

I think Jay Johnson and Mel Tucker let him loose a little bit and he throws three touchdown passes in the first three quarters before giving way to Anthony Russo midway through the third and the entire fourth.

Thorne will throw a touchdown for the first touchdown of the game, hitting Jalen Nailor in stride for a 25-yard score, and then he’ll connect with Jayden Reed before halftime. He’ll finish his afternoon with a touchdown pass to Connor Heyward, ending the day with 200 yards and three touchdown passes with no picks.

Not a bad encore for Thorne who I thought was impressive in the opener and he’s going to make some eye-opening passes all afternoon long. Now he just needs to do this against Miami.

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