Michigan State football: Turnover battle will decide Purdue game

Purdue represents a formidable foe for Michigan State football this weekend.

Michigan State has had difficulty with the Boilermakers in recent years even losing to them in 1999 after their win against Michigan. Can the Spartans keep their focus? I believe they can with their business approach to games that Mel Tucker has installed.

Purdue beat Nebraska, however, the Cornhuskers turned the pigskin over five times. Nebraska quarterback Adrian Martinez was a turnover machine with four interceptions and a fumble. Purdue beat Iowa with the aid of Hawkeye quarterback Spencer Petras’ four interceptions.

The key for Michigan State is for Payton Thorne to protect the football. He has thrown ill-advised passes in key situations over the past two games.

Purdue has a sensational receiver in junior David Bell. He already has 786 yards and four touchdowns. His chemistry with senior quarterback Aiden O’Connell is electric. However, O’Connell has been known to be careless with the ball and has eight interceptions on the season. Purdue does seem to have a running back by committee with King Doerue leading the way with over 300 yards rushing — but running is not the Boilermakers’ strong suit.

Purdue got smoked by Wisconsin, who ran up and down the field on them. Graham Mertz only threw eight times in the game.

The key for Michigan State is to pound green, pound. MSU running back Kenneth Walker III must have a monster game. If MSU can get Walker involved early and often, then it will be an MSU victory.

Prediction: Michigan State 31, Purdue 24