In reporting, timing is everything. So when I saw that Michigan State posted Nick Marsh traveling with the team and Makhi Frazier revealing that he, too, made the trip to Los Angeles, I made sure to jump on the news and hint that both look to be leaning toward playing.
Right as that was posted, a new report came out that revealed my article was already outdated. My luck is just undefeated.
Nick Marsh suffered an injury against Youngstown State that kept him out the entire second half, and Makhi Frazier went down later in the game after a forgettable 12-carry for 22-yard performance against the Penguins. Both were tabbed as "short-term injuries" by Jonathan Smith and said that they would be re-evaluated later in the week to see if they could suit up against USC.
Well, good news has broken after the re-evaluation and the fact that both guys traveled with the team on Thursday to Los Angeles.
According to a report from Pete Thamel, both Marsh and Frazier will be playing on Saturday.
Sources: Michigan State star wide receiver Nick Marsh and leading rusher Makhi Frazier are expected to play at USC. Marsh had a leg injury against Youngstown and Frazier suffered a lower body injury. Both are cleared and in line to play Saturday night. pic.twitter.com/ahkQQCvZO2
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) September 19, 2025
This news couldn't be better, considering the Spartans already lost Alante Brown for an extended period of time, and the run game took a hit with the injury to Luka Vincic on the line. Marsh's health could make the difference between a blowout at USC or an upset bid. The same goes for Frazier because he has been the most effective rusher all season.
I still expect to see a lot of Brandon Tullis on Saturday night, but it'll be good to have an effective 1-2 punch. Aidan Chiles will be happy to get his top target back, too.
Good news all around. Let's hope this translates to an upset win.