Category: Michigan St Spartans Football


Week 10 Preview- Minnesota Golden Gophers (1-8) Vs #14 Michigan State Spartans (8-1)

Filed Under: Michigan St Spartans Football by Josh Huebner — Leave a comment
November 5, 2010

Kickoff: 12pm at Spartan Stadium in East Lansing, MI

TV/Radio: Big Ten Network and 760 AM (Spartan Radio Network)

Line: Michigan State -24

The Spartans are looked to bounce back from last week’s embarrassing blow out loss to the Iowa Hawkeyes.  Fortunately for them they go up against an inferior Golden Gophers team that has struggled heavily this season.  It would be important for the Spartans to put their horrible performance in Iowa City behind them and focus on finishing the season strong.

Top reasons MSU will win:

1.) Kirk Cousins-

Cousins played the worst game of his career last Saturday and will be desperate to redeem his poor play.  Although he hasn’t gotten the support from his running game, Cousins must make better decisions and take advantage of the weak Minnesota defense.

JULIAN H. GONZALEZ / Detroit Free Press

2.) The Ground Game-

This unit struggled once again last week and only compiled a pathetic 31 rushing yards.  This trio of Baker, Bell, and Caper has far too much talent to be contained for another week and should bust out against the Gophers.  I wouldn’t be surprised to see Dantonio call for a run heavy offensive attack to build the groups confidence back up and allow them to have something positive to build on for the rest of the season.

3.) Spartan Defense-

Through the first eight games of the season the Spartans defense found ways to create turnovers and heavy pressure against every offense they faced this season.  Last week they struggled to anything correctly, after a rough week in practice I would expect this unit to come out determined to rebound creating more big plays and shutting down on offense that lit them up last season.

Top reasons MSU will lose:

1.) Iowa Hangover-

Rebounding from last week’s loss may have a lingering effect on this teams confidence which would allow Minnesota to hang around in this game.  Despite handling adversity throughout the season the Spartans hadn’t experienced being punched in the mouth so consistently against any opponent this season.  It is doubtful, but if the Spartans don’t come out to play the Gophers will be ready to take advantage of a shell shocked team.

2.) Disrespecting Minnesota-

Minnesota has beaten the Spartans three times in a row, and will be looking for quarterback Adam Webber (passed for 416 yards and 5 touchdowns last year against the Spartans) to reprise the magic he posted against the Spartans last year.  Although the Gophers are experiencing an awful season that forced them to fire their coach they will be eager to build on any positive play and look to snowball that success into a major upset.

3.) Same Old Spartans-

Until proven otherwise this will always be a reason Michigan State can lose a game.  It will take years for the Spartans to shed their history of losing games they shouldn’t.  Although their remaining three games include three teams they should beat these are exactly the time of games the old Spartans would find ways to lose.  This game will be a huge test for the Spartans and could set the tone for how the finish the season.

Prediction: Michigan State 35 – Minnesota 14

Although Michigan State played awful last week, this will be a redemption week for them as they will eager to move on and re-focus on winning a Big Ten title.  This team has come too far and is too talented to fall to such an inferior team, especially at home.  Coach Dantonio will have this team hungry and excited to rededicate themselves.  The Spartans must be careful in not trying to regain their confidence on one play and patiently focus on playing their game.  Expect a big day from the running game as they are far over due for a huge game.

Bonus- Second favorite team this week: Illinois Fighting Illini-

Illinois has one of the toughest defenses in the Big Ten, and has slowly developed a steady offense that has allowed them to go on a nice run.  It also helps that the Wolverines have one of the worst defenses in the country, which should allow the Illini to score points with ease.  Michigan cannot afford to lose another home game, but I just feel Illinois will be too tough for them to get past.  Illinois 31 – Michigan 21

Since the Spartans are still in the hunt for a Big Ten Title and BCS Bowl game rooting for these teams will be helpful as well: Wisconsin, Iowa and some extra love for Illinois.  This story does a great job of discussion the tie breakers, but essentially since the Spartans hold the tie breaker over Wisconsin they will  hope the Badgers finish the season without another loss to make MSU’s victory over them stand tall.  They will also be rooting for Iowa to win out, and most importantly beat Ohio State.  Although the Hawkeyes beat MSU if both teams finished undefeated MSU will have the better overall record which will help them in the BCS standings.  Finally rooting for Illinois will be beneficial since it would increase the importance of the Spartans beating them earlier this year.

Comment

Week 9 Recap-#5 Michigan State 6 – #18 Iowa Hawkeyes 37

Filed Under: Michigan St Spartans Football by Josh Huebner — Leave a comment
October 30, 2010

The Spartans started the game lacking energy and intensity once again and the Hawkeyes made them pay building a 17-0 lead off of two long drives and a interception returned for a touchdown at the end of the first quarter.  The Hawkeyes didn’t stop there as they imposed their will and continued to pile on points to the tune of a 37-6 beat down.  It was no secret the Hawkeyes were looking for revenge after last weeks devastating loss to the Badgers, but they took it to a whole new level against the Spartans.

Charlie Neibergall / Associated Press

This game was hyped as a match up between two of the Big Ten’s top quarterbacks, yet while both quarterbacks were accurate Stanzi had 3 touchdowns to Cousins 3 interceptions.  Cousins poor play wasn’t the only reason the Spartans got blown out, but his performance was a forgettable one.  For the third straight week the Spartans struggled to sustain a running game of any kind, making them one dimensional.  Since this unit was so dominate the first five weeks it is very concerning to see them continue to struggle.  Despite their struggles as a team, getting their running trio back on track is imperative for the rest of the season.

It would be easy to say the Spartans succumbed to pressure or simply ran out of luck, but the Hawkeyes were simply the better team.  Iowa punched Michigan State in the mouth with their grit, and continued to make big play after big play.  The Spartans had no answer on either side of the ball and continuously committed numerous penalties that plagued throughout the game.

The main objective moving forward for the Spartans will be to finishing the season by beating their finals three opponents, one game at a time.  This team must focus on finishing strong,and finishing what they started, no shame in finishing 11-1.  The Spartans may have lost the ability to control their own destiny, but their main focus will be the Golden Gophers of Minnesota next Saturday.

Comment

Michigan State Reinstates Chris L. Rucker

Filed Under: Michigan St Spartans Football by Josh Huebner — Leave a comment
October 29, 2010

Yesterday it was announced that the Michigan State Spartans football program has decided to reinstate senior cornerback Chris L. Rucker.  Rucker has been suspended since October 10th when he was arrested for a OWI (operating a vehicle while impaired), which violated his 12 month probation (for his involvement with last year’s Rather Hall incident) and consequently made him serve 8 days in jail.  Coach Mark Dantonio released a lengthy statement last night describing his feelings and thoughts on the reinstatement, but was best summarized by this quote:

Associated Press

“Our decision to immediately reinstate Chris has been endorsed by the team’s unity council and the program at-large. This was a difficult decision.  After much soul searching and dialogue with those who are vested in the program, I am comfortable and confident in the decision I have made.”

While I respect the process Dantonio went through to make this decision and trust him to make the best decisions for this program I am still uncomfortable with this decision.  Many have defended this decision on the basis that Michigan State has already been harsher with Rucker than other schools have been with their troubled players (i.e Oklahoma State) but what will this decision cost Michigan State?  I understand Rucker deserves a chance to redeem himself and that he has served his time for his actions, but is this same decision made if the team is 0-8?

Being a college athlete is a privilege, one that Rucker apparently does not respect.  Not to mention the position he plays on the field is all about making good decisions and being accountable.  However off the field he has made senseless and selfish decisions that have effected him, his team and his university.  My guess is more will disagree than agree with this decision, but the team and coach Dantonio have made their decision, and it’s time to move on.  Dantonio has also announced that he has given Rucker the opportunity to decide if he travels and plays with the team on Saturday(he will not start if he decides to play).  I hope Rucker takes this opportunity to show what he has learned from his mistakes and finally puts his team first, by staying in East Lansing this Saturday.  The Spartans head to Iowa City for the programs biggest game in 23 years, and have had a special season so far, hopefully Rucker gives them this opportunity to keep this game about the team and not about him.

Comment

Week 9 Preview-#5 Michigan State Spartans (8-0) Vs #18 Iowa Hawkeyes (5-2)

Filed Under: Michigan St Spartans Football by Josh Huebner — Leave a comment
October 27, 2010

Kickoff: 3:30pm at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa

TV/Radio: ABC (ESPN mirror) and 760 AM

Line: Iowa -7

The Spartans travel to Iowa City to face off against the Hawkeyes in what is sure to be the most hostile environment they will play in all season(the Spartans haven’t won in Iowa since 1989).  Similar to the Badgers, the Hawkeyes also mirror the Spartans closely; very good quarterback, numerous play makers on offense, and a stout defense led by an intense play maker. Coach Dantonio has done an excellent job of keeping his team grounded, as his team has put itself in a position to make every game be the most important game of the season.  There is no doubt the Spartans want to keep their special season alive, but they are also looking to seek revenge from last year’s heart breaking last second loss to the Hawkeyes.

Top reasons MSU will win:

Dale G. Young / The Detroit News

1.) Kirk Cousins-

Cousins has elevated his play in big games, and he will need to be at his best for the Spartans to escape Iowa City with the win.  Captain Kirk is the unquestioned leader on this offense and must continue to make big plays by utilizing all of his weapons.  He has been preaching to his team to stay ‘humble and hungry’, but he is also understands the special importance on this game and season.  ”One of the reasons we’ve been able to win some of the close games,” Cousins said, “is because we have had that deep, deep fire, that edge, that has helped us push through some setbacks, whether it be a fumble or an interception, or a touchdown we let up. When you have an edge, it doesn’t get you down.  It enables you to just keep pushing and keep pushing until you’re able to get the win.”(quote from ESPN’s Adam Rittenberg).

2.) The Ground Game-

In back to back week’s this unit has been held in check, but they cannot afford to duplicate their sub par performance.  Naturally they will be seeking redemption against one of the best run defenses they will see all year long.  However this group must once again rely on their depth to push them past this tough unit.  Baker, Bell, and Caper won’t be expected to put up huge numbers, but providing occasional big plays will go a long ways towards helping this team win.  I’d put their game total goal at 150, if they can compile that many yards this team should be in good shape.

3.) Spartan Defense-

Iowa’s Ricky Stanzi stands as one of the top QB’s in the Big Ten and he has been playing at a high level all season long.  The Spartans must find ways to contain big plays and continue for force turnovers.  Despite a slow start the defensive line has come on strong and they will need another solid game from them to keep Stanzi under pressure.  The Spartans will also have to lean on Greg Jones and Eric Gordon to slow down Hawkeye running back Adam Robinson.  Robinson has averaged well over 100 yards per game, containing him will be crucial as well.

Top reasons MSU will lose:

1.) Ricky Stanzi-

Stanzi is simply a winner, and is having the finest season of his career.  He currently has racked up just under 2,000 passing yards, has thrown 16 touchdowns to just 2 interceptions and averages a passer rating of 174 this season.  He is the heart soul of this team and has continuously made big plays to put his team in position to win every week.  Despite the Spartans strong play at secondary of late, Stanzi has the ability to carve up any secondary.  If he has a great game, the Spartans will be leaving Iowa City with their first loss of the season.

2.) Hawkeye’s Stingy Defense-

The Hawkeye’s rank 11th in points against this season (did allow 28 and 31 points against Michigan and Wisconsin) and are led by the ferocious defensive end Adrain Clayborn.  Although on the defensive line he is the Hawkeye’s version of Greg Jones, the team’s intense leader who requires everyone’s attention and will make plays no matter what you do.  This unit will supply heavy pressure on Cousins and do every thing they can to slow down the Spartans rushing attack.  Winning the turnover battle is always important, and this unit will do it’s best to force as many turnovers as possible.

3.) Same Old Spartans-

Until proven otherwise this will always be a reason Michigan State can lose a game.  It will take years for the Spartans to shed their history of losing games they shouldn’t.  The Spartans have been diligent about staying ‘humble and hungry’, but they also came out flat in the first half the last two weeks.  Despite coach Dantonio and receiver B.J. Cunningham proclaiming this title dead, it will take more than one game to officially shed this persona.

Prediction: Michigan State 34 – Iowa 28

The Spartans haven’t give me a reason to pick against them thus far, there is no doubt this will be another close game, but one where the Spartans prevail.  The Spartans offense will continue to execute on a high level with another big game from Kirk Cousins.  However the defense will steal the headlines as Greg Jones and company force a late turnover that seals the deal.

Bonus- Second favorite team this week: Penn State Nittany Lions

Both of these teams look to get their seasons back on track, as they recover from two early Big Ten losses.  It’s hard to say which team this game means more for, but neither team has any interest in losing this game.  Michigan is coming off of the bye week and is looking to end their losing streak.  Penn State will be without their starting quarterback, which is a huge loss considering their offense has been suspect so far.  There is no question Penn State will be looking to force Denard into turnovers and contain his big play ability, but can Penn State’s offense score enough points(maybe Michigan’s defense will make them look good)?  Odds are this turns into a sloppy game and will be decided by who has a better game Penn State’s running back Evan Royster or Michigan’s Denard Robinson.  I’ll take the senior, Royster, at home.  Penn State 31- Michigan 28


Comment

The Michigan State Spartans Climb to #5 in the Polls and #5 in the BCS

Filed Under: Michigan St Spartans Football by Josh Huebner — Leave a comment
October 24, 2010

RASHAUN RUCKER/ Detroit Free Press

After Saturday’s comeback win against the Northwestern Wildcats the Spartans fine themselves ranked #5 in the Associated Press and Coaches Polls, as well as #5 in the BCS standings.  As the Spartans continue to vow to stay ‘humble and hungry’ they find themselves 8-0 heading into Iowa City next weekend.  Aside from remaining perfect wide receiver B.J. Cunningham and coach Mark Dantonio also feel yesterday’s game will allow this team to finally shed the label of ‘same old Spartans’.  After the game Spartans wide receiver B.J Cunningham and Mark Dantonio informed the Detroit Free Press’ Drew Sharp that the ‘same old Spartans’ are dead.  Sharp reported Cunningham saying:

“Take a shovel and bury it, I don’t think anybody can say that anymore because we really showed people what we’re made of with how we came back this time.”.

Dantonio gave Sharp a far longer explanation:

“It’s not the same old Spartans, guys, to be honest with you,” he said. “If we had come up here and laid an egg, I’m sure that some people would have labeled us that. You’re going to lose football games. It’s going to happen. But the important thing is that we’ll continue to compete and play through the tough times, and we will do that. I think after three years and eight games, we’ve proven that fact. I do think it’s another step in the evolution of the program and I hope people do recognize that fact.”

Strong words from both player and coach, but this team is definitely on the right track to putting their tortured past behind them.  They have games remaining against Iowa, Minnesota, Purdue and Penn State.  The Spartans should be favored in all four of these games and control their own destiny in the Big Ten.  It should be a very exciting final four weeks for the season as the Spartans fight to keep their special season on track.

Comment

Week 8 Recap- #7 Michigan State Spartans 35 – Northwestern Wildcats 27

Filed Under: Michigan St Spartans Football by Josh Huebner — Leave a comment
October 23, 2010

The Spartans came out of the gate slow and struggled to recover throughout the game.  Northwestern’s Dan Persa put on a show for the Wildcats as he rushed for three touchdowns and had the Wildcats up 17-0 at half time.  It wasn’t surprising to see the Wildcats put points on the board, but it was surprising to see their defense shut down the Spartans rushing attack.  While they failed produce 100 yards against the Illini that wasn’t that surprising, but the Wildcats got out to an early lead that forced the Spartans to pass more.  However as grim as things looked for the Spartans they managed to get a touchdown before the half and pull within ten.

Nam Y. Huh / Associated Press

In the second half the Spartans slowly crawled their way back into the game.  Kirk Cousins opened the second half with another strong drive and found Bennie Fowler (great game for him) to pull within three.  Unfortunately the Spartans let the Wildcats drive right back down the field and go back up by ten points.  Once again captain Kirk continued to be clutch in the fourth quarter as he marched the Spartans down the field on a 11 play drive that gave the Spartans their first lead of the game.  However despite his heroics he was once again over shadowed by punter Aaron Bates.  They found themselves looking at a fourth and long, with the punting team on the field, yet again Bates delivered on the fake with a wobbly throw down to the red zone.  After the game Dantonio described this play as ‘mouse trap, you make them go for the cheese’.  Cousins would eventually find Mark Dell in the end zone to make the score 21-24.  The Wildcats responded once again with points of their own, but this time were limited to just three points, 21-27.  With the game in the balance the Spartans were driving down the field once again.  Cousins continued his fourth quarter dominance and found Cunningham in the end zone for the go ahead score, 28-27.

Desperate for a stop the Spartans defense responded, forcing a three and out.  The Spartans had hoped to run out the clock, but Edwin Baker broke loose for a 25 yard touchdown run, putting the Spartans up 35-27, but giving Northwestern another chance with under a minute to play.  However the defense put steady pressure on Persa and eventually forced him into an ill advised pass that was picked off by senior Eric Gordon, ball game.

It was another gritty performance from the Spartans, but they found a way to win a game that maybe they didn’t deserve to.  This team cannot afford to continue their slow starts, but scoring 21 points in the fourth quarter allowed them to escape with the victory.  Michigan State improves to 8-0 and will head to Iowa next week to battle against the Hawkeyes in what will be the biggest game of the year.  Sparty On!

Comment

Week 8 Preview- #8 Michigan State Spartans (7-0) Vs Northwestern Wildcats (5-1)

Filed Under: Michigan St Spartans Football by Josh Huebner — Leave a comment
October 21, 2010

Kickoff: 12pm at Ryan Field in Evanston, Illinois

TV/Radio: ESPN and 760 AM

Line: Michigan State -5 1/2

The Spartans will travel outside of the state of Michigan for the first time this season to face off against the Northwestern Wildcats.  Similar to last week this is being labeled as a trap game, as the Spartans have a crucial match up against Iowa next week.  However coach Mark Dantonio has put to rest the idea of over looking any opponent and becoming over confident with themselves.  Thoughts that were reiterated by team captain Kirk Cousins:

“Well, I think the biggest things are the two words we’ve been saying — ‘humble and hungry,’” Cousins said. “We have to stay humble and hungry, and we’ve really said it since camp. It’s even more important now with where we stand at 7-0 to stay humble and hungry.” (As reported by Greg Johnson Grand Rapids Press)

Top reasons MSU will win:

1.) Spartans Defense-

As a unit this group has continued to improve each game this season.  The last  two weeks the Spartans defensive line has finally put consistent pressure on their foes quarterback, which has allowed the secondary to make plays.  The emergence of Jerel Worthy and William Gholston will have a dramatic impact in this game, as Northwestern QB Dan Persa is one of the top quarterbacks in the Big Ten.  It will take another team effort from this group to slow down the hurry up spread offense, but this unit has the playmakers to slow them down and force turnovers.

2.) The Ground Game-

Last week the Spartans ground game was held under 100 yards, a stunning turn of events from previous games, but one that the offensive line vows to be short lived.  The trio of Baker, Bell, and Caper should break out of their short slump and provide big plays throughout the game.  The running game will will be crucial to keep the Wildcats guessing and take pressure off of Cousins.

RASHAUN RUCKER/ Detroit Free Press

3.) Kirk Cousins-

Cousins struggled last week, as he experienced heavy pressure and missed his dominate running game.  However Cousins still stepped to make big plays when they mattered most.  Although the Wildcats defense has kept every opponent under 28 points look for Cousins to continue to spread the ball around to his weapons all over the field for multiple touchdowns.  His ability to convert big plays and keeps the chain moving will go a long way towards this team winning on Saturday.

Top reasons MSU will lose:

1.) Northwestern’s Aerial  Attack-

Northwestern’s quarterback Dan Persa enters this game as the the team’s leading rusher, and passer.  He has run their hurry up spread offense to near perfection, and has posted impressive efficiency in the process (78% completion percentage and 10 touchdowns to 2 interceptions).  If given the opportunity he has the ability to carve up the Spartans defense.  As long as there is time on the clock Persa will sling the ball all over the field in hopes of giving his team a chance to win.  Despite their great play of late, the Spartans’ secondary is vulnerable and Persa will do his best to expose them.

2.) Wildcat’s Love Being the Under Dog-

The Wildcats enjoy being the under dog, and will find ways to thrive on emotion and Spartan mistakes.  Coach Pat Fitzgerald is as intense as they get, and has built his team around not taking anything for granted.  The Wildcats have beaten a ranked opponent in the Big Ten five of the last seven years, and will be eager to add the Spartans to that list.  Anything this team lacks in talent they will make up for with intensity, grit and heart.

3.) Same Old Spartans-

Until proven otherwise this will always be a reason Michigan State can lose a game.  It will take years for the Spartans to shed their history of losing games they shouldn’t.  The Spartans have been diligent about staying ‘humble and hungry’, but they also came out flat in the first half of last weeks game.  Northwestern has an offense that could put points in a hurry, and falling behind early, may put the Spartans in a hole that they cannot dig themselves out of.

Prediction: Michigan State 34 – Northwestern 20

The Spartans won’t start the game flat this week, quickly scoring through the air and will use their rushing attack to pace their way past the Wildcats.  This game has the ability to turn into a shoot out, but the Spartans defense will stand tall and continue to create costly turnovers.

Bonus- Second favorite team this week: Michigan has a bye week, but use this time to begin focusing on rooting for Penn State next week.

Comment

Week 7 Recap- #11 Michigan State 26 – Illinois 6

Filed Under: Michigan St Spartans Football by Josh Huebner — Leave a comment
October 17, 2010

Kevin W. Fowler / Lansing State Journal

This game had all the makings of a trap game for the Spartans, and in the first half it appeared as though the team was about to let the game slip away.  The Spartans’ offense struggled to move the ball against the stout Illini defense in the first half and appeared in seriously trouble.  However the team bounced back, led by another impressive second half from quarterback Kirk Cousins(13-24 for 201 yards and a TD).  The offense came alive posting 23 unanswered points, 217 yards of offense, and controlled the ball for 16 minutes and 46 seconds.  To put this game into perspective the Spartans had been averaging over 200 yards a game on the ground, but were held to a meager 93 yards as a team. Despite the response from the offense this was yet another game where the Spartans secondary was one of their strengths.

Heading into the season, and every season it seems, the Spartans have a weak secondary.  So far this season this group has already has more interceptions (12) than they did all last season, adding 3 more yesterday.  They may not have a top shut down corner, but the cornerbacks and safeties have been working together to slow down passing attacks and continue to make big plays.  If this unit can continue to keep making timely plays it will be difficult to keep calling this unit a weakness.

This wasn’t a good looking performance from the Spartans, but they made enough big plays to defeat a tough Illinois team.  Overall the Spartans used another team effort to grind out this victory and are now 7-0 for the first time since 1966.    An impressive start and one the Spartans will look to build on next week as they travel to Northwestern.

* Rankings update: The new rankings have come out and the Spartans find themselves ranked #8 in the Associated Press and  in the USA Today Poll.  The Spartans now find themselves atop the Big Ten, after Ohio State was thumped by Wisconsin, and control their own destiny.

Comment

Game 7 Preview: Illinois Fighting Illini (3-2) Vs #11 Michigan State Spartans (6-0)

Filed Under: Michigan St Spartans Football by Josh Huebner — Leave a comment
October 14, 2010

Kickoff: 12pm at Spartan Stadium in East Lansing, Michigan

TV/Radio: Big Ten Network and 760 AM

Line: Michigan State -7 1/2

As the Spartans attempt to go 7-0 for the first time since 1966 coach Dantonio has his team focused, after defeating Michigan last week the Spartans continue to build on a special season.  Dantonio told ESPN about his cautious optimism: “We’re halfway through,” Dantonio said. “It’s going very well, but that doesn’t make a season. The more we win, the bigger game it becomes.”.  It should be hard to rattle this group, especially on homecoming day at Spartan Stadium.

Top reasons MSU will win:

1.) Eric Gordon and Greg Jones-

The Spartans will have another tough assignment this weak as they face off against a bruising rushing attack.  Since the Illini have a freshman quarterback they will rely heavily on their ground game.  It will be imperative for Jones and Gordon to keep Mikel LeShoure in check. This pair has been excellent at keeping top running games under control (held John Clay and Denard Robinson under 100 yards), the Spartans will need them to limit LeShoure in the same way.

Rod Sanford / Lansing State Journal

2.) The Ground Game-

The Spartans look to continue their rushing success against one of the tougher defenses in the Big Ten.  Edwin Baker is emerging as the star of this trio, but once again the Spartans depth at running back should allow them to break though against this tough defense.  Solid defenses can usually slow down one running back, and two running games can be contained, but it seems impossible for Illinois to have a solution to stop Baker, Bell and Caper.

3.) Kirk Cousins-

Cousins had his most complete game of the season last week, playing well in all four quarters and did not turn the ball over.  Expect him to build on last week’s success, frequently using play action to burn Illinois’ weak secondary.

Top reasons MSU will lose:

1.) Illinois’ Rushing Attack-

Mikel LeShoure is the teams leading rusher and has steadily paced the offense so far this season.  Although the Illini should be able to move the ball through the air, a solid rushing attack will make life far easier on their freshman quarterback.  LeShoure has the ability to put up points all on his own, and will be looking to have continued success against the Spartans (he scored two touchdowns last year against them).

2.) Stingy Illini Defense-

The Spartans will face off against a top 20 defense in the country, a unit that will not make their lives easy.  Ron Zook’s defense is very athletic and is led by defensive lineman Cory Liuget and linebackers Nate Bussey and Martez Wilson.  They have been successful at putting pressure on the quarterback and stuffing the run.  They have more than enough play makers to keep their team in the game and should threaten to give them short field position throughout the day.

3.) Same Old Spartans-

Until proven otherwise this will always be a reason Michigan State can lose a game.  It will take years for the Spartans to shed their history of losing games they shouldn’t.  This game has all the makings of a trap game for the Spartans, however the Illini are not a team to be taken lightly.  Illinois would love nothing more than to build off of their win last week by upsetting the Spartans on the road.

Prediction: Michigan State 24 – Illinois 14

This will be another tough test for the Spartans, but they should be able to continue to make plays on both sides of the ball.  Luckily for them their biggest weakness ( the secondary) is something the Illini will struggle to take advantage of with a freshman QB.  While the offense will be tested their superior depth and Cousins, their offensive leader, should guide them to another victory.

Bonus: Second favorite team this week: #13 Iowa Hawkeyes- Ricky Stanzi and the Hawkeye’s vertical passing attack will be able to take advantage of Michigan’s secondary throughout the game.  However, one can bet Michigan will be looking to avenge not only last week’s last, but last year’s loss against Iowa.  Expect another entertaining game, but the experienced Hawkeyes will prevail once again 31-28.

Comment

After Confessions from a Sports Agent the NCAA Needs to Open Its Eyes and Become Accountable

Filed Under: Michigan St Spartans Basketball, Michigan St Spartans Football by Josh Huebner — Leave a comment
October 12, 2010

It’s no secret that agents are finding ways to lure college athletes to their agency’s by paying them.  Occasionally you hear about an athlete who admits to taking money from an agent, or who gets caught (i.e Reggie Bush), but there has never before been an agent who has come clean about paying players.  Today Sports Illustrated’s George Dohrmann posted an eye opening article about NFL agent  Josh Luchs-Confessions of a Sports Agent (was an NFL agent for 20 years).  After his admission Luchs now becomes the first agent to let outsiders into the world of a sports agent.  In the article he goes into great deal about how he got started and how he would go about his business in recruiting players.  I don’t think anyone thinks agents are anything but scums of the earth (obviously they are not all cheaters, but that’s the light most see them in), but this article takes that perception to a whole new level.  While it’s embarrassing to read about Luchs’ past it is refreshing to finally hear some one come clean on what is going on behind closed doors.  This story is something that the NCAA, the Universities, and the players involved simply cannot ignore or hide from.  Obviously Luchs isn’t the first, last, or only agent committing these crimes, I eagerly await how the NCAA will respond to this story.  For far too long the NCAA has sat quietly as these issues have come up, quickly sweeping allegations under the rug and blaming the Universities involved.  It’s time they stepped up to the plate and held themselves accountable for allowing agents to have this kind of impact on college sports and their athletes.  Needless to say I strongly encourage you to read the article.

Comment
Powered by WordPress | Theme: Motion by 85ideas.