College Game Preview: #6 Michigan State vs Penn State

Michigan State looks to claim it’s spot in the Big Ten Championship with a win over the Penn State Nittany Lions

The battle of two of the nation’s top quarterback prospects will be underway in East Lansing, Michigan today as number five ranked Michigan State looks to solidify their spot in the Big Ten Championship Game against fourth ranked Iowa. To do that, they’ll have to get past one of the tougher defenses in the country in James Franklin’s Nittany Lions. With the country’s sack leader Carl Nassib looking to return from injury and two prime defensive tackles in Anthony Zettel and Austin Johnson looking to raise their stock, Michigan State will have its hands full at home today.

Players to Watch

No. 14 Christian Hackenberg, QB

Christian Hackenberg is probably one of the more compelling names to watch as we enter the draft season next month. A highly regarded name among scouts, the pocket-passer Hackenberg has struggled in James Franklin’s spread system for a second straight year. It’s hard to evaluate someone when they’re a round peg in a square hole, so his final two performances this year and his combine will carry a lot of weight moving forward.

Also watch freshman running back Saquon Barkley, who’s less than 100 yards away from having a 1,000 rushing yard season. While he had a rough game last week against Michigan, he’s on his way to becoming the best running back in the conference with his highlight reel moves.

No. 18 Connor Cook, QB

Another highly touted quarterback prospects this year is Michigan State’s Connor Cook. While his arm strength and physical attributes are exactly what everyone is looking for, his footwork is still raw and his awareness in the pocket is in need of help. Like Hackenberg, the combine and his pro day will do wonders for his draft stock. Keep an eye on that shoulder that kept him out of last weeks game. When he initially hurt it, I though he’d be out for a prolonged period of time.

Final Prediction

I think Penn State can hold on for the first half or so, but the Michigan State Spartans are just a more talented, better coached team. Coaching blunders have kept Penn State out of some very capable games this year, so expect some erroneous playcalling to be the deciding factor today.

Final Score: Michigan State 35 – Penn State 20