The schedule forces Michigan State to take a step back this week. If the Spartans want to remain in the rankings, they can't afford to take an even bigger step back.
Michigan State opened its Big Ten schedule on Saturday night with a 35-21 road victory over Indiana following a bye week.
Before the No. 21 Spartans can fully concentrate on competing for a conference championship, they must turn their attention to in-state foe Central Michigan in a nonconference contest. They'll host the Chippewas on Saturday afternoon.
"That's not a perfect scenario," Spartans coach Mark Dantonio said.