Michigan State Football: 3 goals and a prediction against Washington

Michigan State's Noah Kim throws a pass against Richmond during the second quarter on Saturday, Sept. 9, 2023, at Spartan Stadium in East Lansing.
Michigan State's Noah Kim throws a pass against Richmond during the second quarter on Saturday, Sept. 9, 2023, at Spartan Stadium in East Lansing. /
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EAST LANSING, MICHIGAN – SEPTEMBER 10: Maverick Hansen #97 of the Michigan State Spartans reacts to a fumble recovery against the Akron Zips during the first quarter at Spartan Stadium on September 10, 2022 in East Lansing, Michigan. (Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images)
EAST LANSING, MICHIGAN – SEPTEMBER 10: Maverick Hansen #97 of the Michigan State Spartans reacts to a fumble recovery against the Akron Zips during the first quarter at Spartan Stadium on September 10, 2022 in East Lansing, Michigan. (Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images) /

2. Batted balls at the line of scrimmage on defense

The best way to disrupt the passing game? Don’t even let the pass get near the receiver.

Batting the ball at the line of scrimmage is such a drive-killer and is exactly what the Spartans will need to beat Heisman hopeful Michael Penix Jr. Even if the receiver is wide open, which will happen from time to time in this game, getting a mitt on the ball is a surefire way that a pass can’t go for a big gain.

The defensive line is long enough to knock down a pass or two and swing the momentum of the game, especially with a raucous crowd at Spartan Stadium.