Heading into a Week 4 battle with USC as a heavy underdog, Michigan State football is trying to make a statement and deliver Jonathan Smith the first ranked win of his coaching career.
After starting the season 3-0 with the nation's top total offense and No. 2 scoring offense, USC has jumped into the AP Top 25, taking the final spot. The Trojans have been one of the biggest surprises of the first three weeks, but Michigan State will try to steal their thunder on Saturday night.
That's not going to be easy with the disadvantages the Spartans face, however.
1. Pass defense vs. USC passing offense
This one really doesn't need much of an explanation other than the fact that USC has one of the most explosive passing attacks in the country, and Michigan State ranks near the bottom of the Big Ten already in passing yards allowed per game.
This could get ugly if USC decides to air it out early and often, because I just don't think the Spartans have the defensive backs to stop these Trojan wide receivers.
2. Pass rush
How good is USC's offensive line? It's too early to tell, but the unit looks really good, allowing just three total sacks through three games and paving the way for 7.0 yards per carry as a team. Keeping the quarterbacks upright and opening holes in the run game is a sign of an elite group, and that might be trouble for the Spartans.
Michigan State didn't record a single sack against the only Power Four team it faced this season, and it turns out that team may not be quite as good as originally thought.
It could be a long day for this Spartan pass rush against USC.
3. Turnover battle
On the year, Michigan State has forced just three turnovers. Through three games against inferior opponents, that's just not good enough. Turnovers are what can save a season, but it looks like Michigan State has been on the wrong end of too many already in 2025, coughing up the ball four times.
USC, on the other hand, has only made two mistakes this season, losing a couple of fumbles in the first two games, but the Trojans have stayed out of harm's way for the most part.
The Trojans are +5 in turnovers through three games, and the Spartans are -1. Not good.