Michigan rolls into Saturday’s rivalry game against Michigan State as a heavy 13.5-point favorite, and honestly, it’s not hard to see why. The Wolverines have been absolutely stifling opponents, allowing a tiny 16.4 points per game this season. This defense is no joke, giving up a mere 250 total yards and a measly 99.4 rushing yards per game.
Carr’s Breakthrough Lights Up The Offense
While the defense has been rock solid, Michigan’s offense showed some serious flashes in their recent 28-21 win at Rutgers. Freshman quarterback Tommy Carr had himself a day, completing 22 of 27 passes for 266 yards. Not only that, he ran for two touchdowns and then found JJ Buchanan for a six-yard score. The Wolverines put up 427 total yards in that game and converted an impressive 12 of 16 third downs, even with two missed field goals that kept Rutgers in it. They’re sitting at 5-3, having won two of their past three, and Carr’s improvement adds a whole new dimension to an offense that averages 316.4 yards per game. Savion Hiter also toted the rock 20 times for 76 yards, and Jordan Marshall scored his fifth rushing touchdown of the season.
Spartans Caught In A Six-Game Skid
On the flip side, Michigan State is in a full-blown freefall. They’re limping into this rivalry matchup with a 2-6 record after losing six straight games. Their last outing was a brutal 28-10 defeat at UCLA, where they managed a pathetic 156 total yards and converted just two of 11 third downs. Freshman Kayd Coffman started at quarterback in that game, with Leo Hannan stepping in for relief. It’s been tough sledding for the Spartans offense, scoring only 31 points in their past two games. UCLA held them to a paltry 47 rushing yards while forcing three turnovers. Their defense isn’t exactly a brick wall either, allowing 153.8 rushing yards per outing.
This Saturday night showdown has Michigan looking to extend their winning form and make a statement in this rivalry. SportsLine is predicting a 31-15 Wolverines victory, a 16-point margin that easily covers the 13.5-point spread. Michigan State needs to find *something* to stop the bleeding, but against a surging Michigan squad that knows how to shut opponents down, it looks like a very tall order for the Spartans.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
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