The Ohio State Buckeyes head to East Lancing to take on the Michigan State Spartans in a game that will likely determine the winner of the Big Ten East.
These teams have posted nearly identical seasons to this point as both come in at 7-1 (4-1), both offenses rank in the top five in points scored, and both defenses are in the top 25 of points allowed per game.
Records:
Ohio State: 7-1 (4-0 Big Ten)
Michigan State: 7-1 (4-0 Big Ten)
Last Meeting: Michigan State won 34-24 in 2013
Ohio State Outlook: The Buckeyes have only had one close game since their loss to Virginia Tech (a 2OT win over Penn State), as the offense has been unstoppable behind J.T. Barrett.
While the talent is undeniable, Michigan State will be the toughest test yet for the freshman quarterback and the Buckeyes offense.
For an offense that has scored 50+ points in five of six games, confidence is not a concern coming into this matchup.
Michigan State Outlook: The Spartans have ran like clockwork this season, posting impressive numbers on both sides of the ball week in and week out.
Besides a loss at Oregon, Michigan State has only been involved in one other close game, a five point win over Nebraska.
Quarterback Connor Cook has been a big part of that success, throwing for 1,868 yards and 17 touchdowns this year.
What to watch for: In a game that looks evenly matched, this game will come down to which quarterback makes fewer mistakes at crucial moments.
Both Barrett and Cook have been nearly perfect all season, but one of these quarterbacks is bound to make a mistake eventually.
In a hostile environment, Barrett is playing the biggest game of his young career on Saturday. That doesn't mean he's guaranteed to struggle, but he needs to be extra sharp in this one, especially if Cook is on point for the Spartans.
What they're saying - Ohio State:
Braxton Miller responds to MSU's Jones claim that Barrett is better (Cleveland Plain Dealer)
Buckeyes record vs top 10 teams the last 10 years (Scarlett and Game)
What they're saying - Michigan State:
Connor Cook could benefit from familiarity with Ohio State defensive scheme (MLive.com)
Dantonio and Meyer both agree, MSU-Ohio State rivalry not yet noteworthy (The State News)
Prediction:
Ohio State - 28, Michigan State - 38
The Spartans have the firepower to hold off a Buckeyes offense that has been on fire over the last six weeks. Michigan State has an advantage playing at home, and while this game could go either way, the Spartans should use the energy of the home crowd to separate themselves late in this game.
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