Michigan State Football: Final score predictions vs. Purdue in Week 10

Purdue awaits Michigan State football in Week 10 with plenty on the line for both teams.

Michigan State would remain squarely in the top four of the playoff rankings with a win and prove to doubters that trap games mean nothing to Mel Tucker who keeps his team focused. The Spartans would also start 9-0 and control their own destiny in the final three games with massive playoff and Big Ten title aspirations.

The Boilermakers might get back into the Top 25 with a win because it would be their second victory over a top-10 team in three weeks. They’d also reach bowl eligibility.

What do our writers believe will take place on Saturday?

Connor Muldowney: This is going to be a gut-wrenching game for those Michigan State fans who are expecting a blowout because this won’t be that. The Spartans are expected to win here but the Boilers love to play spoiler and Mel Tucker knows that. I see Michigan State coming out firing and scoring early and often, but the defense will struggle to slow David Bell and that passing offense. Michigan State will rely heavily on Kenneth Walker III and he’ll have a big day while the defense comes up with a big interception late to seal a win.

Final Score: Michigan State 28, Purdue 24

Carter Landis: Purdue is viewed as a trap game for the Spartans, but I just don’t see it. Yes, Purdue’s defense in the passing game is good, but if they can’t stop Kenneth Walker on the ground, that opens up Payton Thorne to do what he wants. As long as MSU can limit David Bell, Purdue’s offense won’t be very threatening.

Final Score: Michigan State 38, Purdue 10

Jack Williams: The only reason this is considered a trap game is because completely unrelated Purdue teams of years past have knocked off good teams. Realistically, any prediction outside of a wide-margin win for Michigan State doesn’t make any sense at all here. Purdue’s rushing defense is average and MSU has a Heisman-contending RB named Kenneth Walker III. I’ll take the Spartans.

Final Score: Michigan State 41, Purdue 14

Conner Linsner: Michigan State will have their hands full Saturday. After a big emotional win last Saturday the Spartans will have a big test on the road. The offense cannot have a performance like they did against Indiana or Nebraska. A fast start will be key. It won’t be pretty but the Spartans get it done with Payton Thorne making plays in big moments.

Final Score: Michigan State 30, Purdue 29

Stephen Robb: This is a winnable game for MSU. Payton Thorne cannot force the ball into tight spaces. Purdue is known to get interceptions as they had four against Iowa and Nebraska. Purdue likes to sling the pigskin and if MSU plays its typical defense then the Spartans will give up many passing yards. It will be a matter of holding them to field goals. MSU’s Kenneth Walker III has to be the bell cow. If MSU can control the clock and line, it wins.

Final Score Michigan State 31, Purdue 24