3 keys to victory for Michigan State football against Boston College

The biggest game of the year (so far) for Michigan State football is here as the Spartans travel east once again to take on Boston College. Like Michigan State, the Eagles are somewhat of a surprising team as they are 2-1 and have looked extremely good so far this season.

The Spartans are 6.5-point underdogs in this game, but they could easily lose this game by more if they aren’t careful. So to help avoid that from happening, here are my three keys for the game that will put the Spartans in a great position to win this game and move to 4-0.

1. Keep Thomas Castellanos in the pocket

Boston College quarterback Thomas Castellanos is a more than capable passer, but I don’t think he’s shown the ability to beat a team simply with his arm. He is however extremely dangerous when he’s able to get loose on the ground.

It’s no secret that the Eagles want to use Castellanos in the run game as he has the second-most rushing attempts on the team this season. But whether those are designed runs or scrambles, the Spartans' defense needs to contain him on the ground and keep him in the pocket.

If Castellanos beats Michigan State with his arm then you just gotta tip your cap to him, but what MSU can’t do is let him really get going on the ground. This makes him an even more effective passer while also being able to pick up first down after first down with his legs.

So the best chance Michigan State has at slowing down Boston College’s offense is by making Castellanos one-dimensional and keeping him in the pocket.