Michigan State Spartans (4-3) vs. Michigan Wolverines (4-3)
The Michigan State Spartans and the Michigan Wolverines battle again in this Week 9 clash, and it’s a big one for college football fans. Both the Spartans and the Wolverines record coming in is at 4-3, so apart from state pride, this is a key turning point in their current season log as well. In the embellished Michigan Stadium this Saturday night, this contest will be shown on BTN so every American who has any sense can switch on their television to witness peak American football. While considering this week’s latest NCAAF picks, this one is rather noteworthy for how it might affect the Big Ten standings and the playoff hopes for both teams.
For Michigan State, the offensive approach puts most of the emphasis on the creative abilities of Want and Nick Marsh. Running back Kay’Ron Lynch-Adams has accrued 424 rushing yards on 82 attempts for a solid 5.2 yards per carry while flashing plenty of tools with his stopping ability. Lynch-Adams’ breakaway 63-yard run is also important for the Spartans’ running attack. Marsh is the team’s leading receiver and playmaker as he was able to catch 24 passes for 433 yards and average 18 yards per catch and a long of 77 yards which should increase his long play potential. These two players are very important to Michigan State’s tactics of time management and the tempo of the game when placed up against Michigan’s defense.
However, what might have caused the Wolverines to be apprehensive was the expected performance of the in-form Kalel Mullings and Colston Loveland against a talented Michigan State team. Mullings is a whirlwind within the backfield. So far this season, he has carried the ball 110 times and crossed the end zone seven times this season. As this game aims to exploit Mullings’s advantage, his performance could very well dictate the tempo of the game. As for Loveland, things couldn’t be better as he is ready to return to the field, to complement the ground game where 36 catches for 344 yards were made. This season, his 9.6 yards per reception make him a reliable target in critical down situations. To remove the defensive guards of the Spartans, the Wolverines will be required to go all out on the offensive end.
Michigan State Spartans vs. Michigan Wolverines Game Info
| When: | Saturday, October 26, 2024 at 7:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Michigan Stadium |
| TV: | BTN |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Aidan Chiles QB vs. Davis Warren QB
Aidan Chiles of Michigan State has had a mixed season, with 1,468 passing yards and 6 touchdowns against 9 interceptions, suffering 15 sacks. His resilience under pressure and ability to bounce back from setbacks will be crucial in this high-stakes game. His 128.1 passer rating, despite the challenges, shows a quarterback who can make plays when it counts.
Davis Warren of Michigan, although playing less aggressively with 444 yards and 2 touchdowns against 6 interceptions, brings a different style. His higher completion percentage (66.7%) and cautious play could serve well in a game where possession and turnover margins could decide the victor.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: Michigan Wolverines -175, Total Odds: 40.5
The Wolverines are slight favorites in this matchup, evidenced by the -3.5 point spread. However, betting trends suggest a possible edge for the Spartans, who are 12-3-1 ATS in their recent meetings with the Wolverines. The total set at 40.5 points, with historical trends showing a penchant for lower-scoring affairs, might tempt bettors to lean towards the under.
Michigan State Spartans Betting Trends
Michigan State has demonstrated strong resilience against the spread, particularly in this heated matchup, boasting a 12-3-1 ATS record in their last 16 encounters with Michigan. Additionally, their ability to keep games under the total in recent outings adds an interesting layer to the betting dynamics.
Michigan Wolverines Betting Trends
Conversely, the Wolverines struggle to cover the spread with a 1-6 ATS record in their last seven games and a particularly poor 1-6-1 ATS record in recent home games against the Spartans. Despite their strong SU records both overall and at home, their inability to cover in close games could be a concern for bettors leaning their way.
Michigan State Spartans vs. Michigan Wolverines 10/26/2024 Betting Picks
Looking at the different aspects of this matchup, the Spartans’ overall success in covering the spread in this rivalry cannot go unnoticed. Their strong and purposeful defensive and offensive plays, may be enough to beat the odds. However, the Wolverines will have to make use of the home advantage and do better than their season poor ATS performances if they are to win and cover. In prop bets, to those considering an anytime touchdown, Lynch-Adams, who’s a consistent rushing threat, can prove useful.
Still, a better selection would be Michigan State to cover the +3.5 spread given how competitive this rivalry is, and how history has shown this rivalry in terms of ATS. The under of 40.5 also looks worth taking given how both teams have performed in the most recent matchups. Always consider these aspects for the best live betting experience as this game is going to be an excited session in the Big Ten arena.
