Detroit News predictions: Michigan State vs. Central Michigan
Matt Charboneau, Angelique S. Chengelis, John Niyo and Bob Wojnowski of The Detroit News offer their predictions on the outcome of Saturday's Michigan State-Central Michigan game at Spartan Stadium in East Lansing. (noon, FS1/760 AM).
Matt Charboneau: The Spartans are back home for the first time since the season opener with an offense that is still struggling to find a rhythm. Facing Central Michigan might be exactly what is necessary considering the Chippewas have just one win over an FCS school and rank near the bottom in the nation in several major offensive categories. It might not signal a dramatic turnaround, but expect the Spartans to win their final non-conference game handily. Michigan State, 38-10
Angelique S. Chengelis: It’s not that I don’t respect CMU, but the Spartans simply have more. Of everything. Yes, you can wonder about the Spartans’ offense and putting too much in Brian Lewerke, but the CMU defense has plenty of holes. Michigan State’s stingy defense isn’t giving an inch in the run but can the Chips do enough in the pass game? Michigan State, 35-3
Bob Wojnowski: These aren’t your standard upset-minded Chippewas, and these aren’t your standard smashmouth Spartans, at least not yet. Michigan State should be able to crank it up on both sides of the ball, and it’s a perfect chance to get its offensive line in order. You’d like to see Brian Lewerke make fewer mistakes, but more important, the Spartans need to see some semblance of a running game. Pick: Michigan State 42-10
John Niyo: Michigan State's overdue for an early kickoff and a comfortable win, and this game certainly is an opportunity on both counts. Central Michigan's defense could make things interesting for a half, but a few big plays from Brian Lewerke and that receiving corps should open things up. The fewer punts, the better off the Spartans will be, though. Michigan State, 34-17
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