The running game continues to be a strength as the Michigan State Spartans roll past Florida Atlantic at Ford Field in Detroit. Give it up for Edwin Baker!
On offense, no Larry Caper again this week, but that didn’t slow down the MSU run. Edwin Baker, playing in front of a hometown crowd in Detroit had 15 carries for 183 yards, including an 80-yard run for a TD. Le’Veon Bell had a good day as well with 10 carries for 49 yards and a TD. Kirk Cousins was 9-17 with one TD and one pick – basically a 50% day for Kirk. Lastly, let’s give it up for Dan Conroy who had three field-goals including one from 50-yards out. I was worried about the Spartan kicking game this year, but things are looking pretty solid in that department.
On defense, MSU still looks weak against the pass. FAU completed 2/3 of it’s passes for 215 yards. The Spartans shut down the run, but pass defense continues to struggle. I’m a little nervous about defending a more powerful offensive attack such as Michigan, or even Notre Dame next week.
What was up with FAU kicking a field-goal instead of going for it late in the game? A real head-scratcher there. I don’t get it.
Next week, it’s the Spartans versus the Irish in a night game at Spartan Stadium in East Lansing. Notre Dame will be MSU’s first real test this season. ND lost to Michigan in a close one, and I think they’ll be coming at MSU with a vengeance. ND and it’s new coach, Brian Kelly, have everything to prove, and they need wins this season to get out from under the microscope. MSU lost to the Irish last year after a ridiculous Cousin’s interception that halted a steamrolling drive to take the lead. I think MSU is looking to erase that loss from their memories.
In a nutshell, two very motivated teams. I’m glad MSU has the home field advantage.
GO GREEN! GO WHITE! GO GREEN! GO WHITE!
MSU will probably get to 8 or 9 wins. How about 8. Off to a 3-0 start.