The day is finally here when #11 Michigan takes on #23 Michigan State from Spartan Stadium in East Lansing.
Michigan leads the overall series between the two teams 34-22-2, however Michigan hasn’t beaten State since 2007 when they managed a 28-24 victory over the Spartans.
Michigan State on the other hand looks to make it four straight victories over Michigan, a feat that hasn’t been accomplished by the Spartans since 1962.
Heading into the matchup today, both teams relatively are sitting in pretty good spots.
Michigan State is coming off a bye week however they had their first signature victory of the season against Ohio State a couple of weeks again in Columbus. During that game the Spartans displayed their defensive prowess when they held the Buckeyes scoreless for almost the entire game.
Michigan comes into the matchup undefeated sitting at 6-0 with their signature victories this season coming at the hands of Notre Dame and Northwestern. New head coach Brady Hoke seems to have this team going in the right direction after 3 pathetic seasons under former head coach Rich Rodriguez.
Each team has very obvious strengths and very obvious weaknesses which should play a huge part into their game plans today.
Here are Michigan States keys to the game…
Protect Kirk Cousins
Michigan State’s offensive line is definitely the weak point in Michigan State’s offense. You combine the lack of protection and Dan Roushar questionable play calling and you have a pretty good solution as to why Kirk Cousins isn’t having quite the season many thought he would. Michigan knows the offensive line’s short comings and they know that if they can get pressure on Cousins he will be more prone to making bad decisions. The o-line needs to make sure they keep Cousins upright and give him plenty of time in the pocket.
Have a strong running game
Aside from Michigan defensive front, their defensive backfield is still a question mark. Bell and Baker need to a strong game on the ground. This will help reduce some of the pressure being put on Cousins.
Read More Michigan State Keys to the Game…
Here are Michigan’s keys to the game…
Put pressure on Kirk Cousins
It’s no secret that Michigan State’s offensive line is horrible and Kirk Cousins hasn’t had a very good season so far. Michigan’s defensive line needs to put plenty of pressure on Cousins and really take advantage of that weak State O-line.
Keep on taking advantage of that weak offensive line by stopping the running game
Again, Michigan needs to continue taking advantage State’s weak offensive line by stopping the run. Force Cousins to air the ball out since he’s been making plenty of questionable throws all season long.
Read More Michigan Keys to the Game…
This is a very pivotal matchup for both teams. Last season’s game really served as a turning point for Michigan and Michigan State as both teams seemed to go in different directions after that.
This year Michigan State needs the victory in order to capitalize off of last season’s Big Ten Championship while Michigan looks to finally get back to their winning way’s against State.
Ref: Zimbio (image)
