[metabet_core_odds_compare query=”ncaaf/michigan” size=”300×250″ site_id=”atsio” css=”float:right; margin-left:10px”]Paul Bunyan’s Trophy is on the line Saturday, October 31, 2020, when the Michigan State Spartans (0-1) visit the Michigan Wolverines (1-0). Sparty could not have had a worse start to their season, while Michigan started on the highest of notes. This game will air live on FOX at 12:00 p.m. EST.
After their first game, the Michigan State offense is averaging 27.0 points per game and 369.0 yards per game, 319.0 through the air and 50.0 on the ground. Defensively, the Spartans are allowing 38.0 points and 276.0 yards, 170.0 passing and 106.0 rushing.
The Michigan offense got off to a hot start as they are averaging 49.0 points per game and 478.0 yards per game, 225.0 through the air and 253.0 on the ground. Defensively, the Wolverines are allowing 24.0 points and 326.0 yards, 197.0 passing and 129.0 rushing.
Below is my pick for the Michigan State Spartans at #13 Michigan Wolverines. All odds are from betMGM Sportsbook.
Michigan State Spartans at #13 Michigan Wolverines (-25.5): O/U 53.5 (-110/-110)
Michigan State started the 2020 season, and their brand-new era, with an ugly, disappointing 38-27 home defeat to Rutgers. The Scarlett Knights led from start to finish and led by as much as 18 points at one point in the game. Michigan State scored a late touchdown to make this game seem closer than it appeared. Quarterback Rocky Lombardi was 31/43 for 319 yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions. Wide receiver Jayden Reed hauled in 11 balls for 128 yards and two touchdowns in the season opener. The Sparty defense allowed just 276 total yards, but no team can overcome seven turnovers by their offense.
The Michigan Wolverines started their season with a dominant 49-24 road win over the then #21 Minnesota Golden Gophers. Minnesota started the game off with a touchdown drive, but that was their only lead of the game as Michigan controlled this one throughout. The Wolverines led 21-10 at the end of the first quarter and 35-17 at the half. Michigan dominated on the ground as running backs Hassan Haskins and Zach Charbonnet combined for 152 yards and three touchdowns on just 10 carries. Quarterback Joe Milton was 15/22 for 225 yards, one touchdown, and added an additional 52 yards and one touchdown on eight rushes.
Series History: Michigan has won the last two meetings in this rivalry and the Wolverines lead the all-time series 71-36-5.
CFB Predictions: It is going to be a rough year in East Lansing. Give me Michigan -25.5
2020 CFB Picks Results: 21-14