Michigan State travels to Ohio Stadium this Saturday to play the Buckeyes at 7:30 P.M. Ohio State and MSU are both currently atop the Big Ten East. Therefore, this is an imperative victory for the Spartans. Especially with Wisconsin and Penn State right around the corner. Here are three things to watch for in this game:
Michigan State’s Offensive Line
Let’s start with the potentially bad. Offensive line depth becomes thinner and thinner every week. Sophomore Blake Buetler went down in the 40-31 victory over Indiana. Per Chris Solari of the Detroit Free Press, freshman John Duplain could see snaps against Ohio State’s defense. That is a daunting ask of a freshman.
MSU QB Brian Lewerke cannot face exorbitant pressure from the Buckeye’s defense. Freshman RB Elijah Collins reads offensive holes with excellence, but, that does not matter if the offensive line cannot follow through on blocks. Look for the o-line to determine the success of MSU’s offense.
Brian Lewerke’s Quality of Play
Brian Lewerke is polarizing, to say the least. Some see his athletic upside and impressive physical performance. Others see inefficiency and clumsy pass execution. Personally, I think Lewerke can ball. It all comes down to whether or not he can put four quarters together.
So far, Lewerke has no interceptions despite some inaccurate throws. He can deliver the ball in tight situations. As a matter of fact, Lewerke made multiple plays against Indiana in a 40-31 victory this past Saturday. Make no mistake, the offense lead MSU to victory in that game. Look for the QB to lead his team again, for better or for worse.
Defense Dictates The Game
Last week, Indiana tested MSU’s defense. In particular, QB Michael Penix threw wide receiver screen after wide receiver screen without any issue. The Spartans were unable to challenge that play. Ohio State’s offense is nothing but excellence on nearly every play. Key players like Kenny Willekes, Raequan Williams, Jacub Panasiuk must step up against the Buckeyes.
Let’s not kid around, Justin Fields is an absolute problem. He has had multiple games with four or more touchdowns. Michigan State struggles against quick and athletic QBs. The defense must keep a QB spy on Fields at all times. Hopefully, the Spartan Dawgs can contain the Buckeye’s overwhelming offense.
Be sure to tune in this weekend and cheer on the Spartans. Stay locked on SpartansWire for coverage of this game and more.
