Michigan State football will need to overcome injuries to beat Penn State

Mel Tucker just signed a massive contract extension with Michigan State football: 10 years, $95 million. That may be good news for Michigan State. He’s building a dynasty and is coming for the big guns. Yep, we’re talking to you, Ohio State.

The irony is that Tucker’s Spartans were hurt badly against the Buckeyes this past week, but the Spartans are looking for a rebound. To rebound, they’ll need to beat Penn State.

Now Penn State isn’t ranked because it’s been inconsistent. The Nittany Lions beat Wisconsin when the Badgers were at their worst, beat an SEC power in Auburn, but have stumbled as of late, losing to three ranked teams: Iowa, Ohio State, and Michigan. Then there’s the embarrassing nine-overtime loss to Illinois as a top 10 team.

Last week, the Nittany Lions had their rebound after a frustrating loss to Michigan. Penn State shut out Rutgers 28-0.

Michigan State football will need to overcome injuries

Let’s start with the offense and Michigan State’s receiving corps. Jayden Reed (foot) and Jalen Nailor (hand) are both questionable for Saturday’s game against Penn State. Left tackle Jarrett Horst has missed the last three games due to a personal reason. Then there’s Heisman candidate Kenneth Walker III with an ankle injury. He’s questionable for Saturday’s game, too.

FBS’s worst pass defense may also miss some key starters.

One of the first traits we learned about Michigan State’s identity is that they will need to rely on offense this season. Their defense simply wasn’t getting it done. New guys, like sophomore receiver Montorie Foster, will need to step up in the Spartans’ final game.

Foster took over in Nailor’s spot and has eight receptions for 123 yards, and a score; true freshman Keon Coleman had three receptions for 27 yards, and a score.

Junior running back Elijah Collins and sophomore Jordon Simmons will likely have more opportunities for touches against Penn State. They combined for 52 yards against the Buckeyes and will need to step it up.

It won’t be easy, though. Penn State’s defense ranks fourth in scoring (15.5), only behind Texas A&M, Oklahoma State, and Georgia.

If this game was in Happy Valley, forget it. Thankfully, it’s at home. The Spartans have a chance to beat Penn State and secure a trip to a New Year’s Six bowl, but it will not be easy.