Saturday night's Michigan State vs. USC game will be the first Big Ten contest for the Spartans this season, and they'll be looking to prove some doubters wrong despite a 3-0 start.
Yes, Michigan State is 3-0, but that doesn't mean the Spartans have earned respect nationally. Michigan State has fallen short of expectations on the defensive side of the ball, but the offense has been solid. Aidan Chiles looks like one of the most improved players in the conference, while the receiving corps is one of the best in the country.
Fortunately for Michigan State, Nick Marsh and Makhi Frazier are returning to the lineup on Saturday night after getting knocked out of the Youngstown State game. That should help the Spartans in their upset quest. It's not going to be an easy task, however. USC has one of the best offenses in the country (No. 1 total offense, No. 2 scoring), meanwhile the Spartan defense has been disappointing.
What does Vegas think of Saturday's matchup?
Odds courtesy of DraftKings as of Sept. 20.
Line: USC -19.5
Over/Under: 55.5
Moneyline: USC -1000 | Michigan State +650
The line has moved drastically in USC's favor since the opening line. It was originally USC by two touchdowns, and now Vegas has the line all the way up to the 20-range. That's not bad for certain fans (myself) who are thinking about betting Michigan State.
What do I see happening? I think Michigan State covers the spread, but falls just short after an excellent offensive performance. I just don't see the defense stepping up to stop the nation's No. 2 scoring offense, but Chiles is going to have a nice game against his toughest opponent yet.
Prediction: Michigan State 27, USC 34