As Michigan State prepares to face Maryland, the stakes are high for both teams in the final game of the regular season. The matchup is set for Saturday, November 29, at 7 p.m. at Ford Field in Detroit.
Matchup Overview
- Teams: Michigan State Spartans (3-8, 0-8 Big Ten) vs. Maryland Terrapins (4-7, 1-7 Big Ten)
- Kickoff: 7 p.m., Saturday, November 29
- Location: Ford Field, Detroit
- TV/Radio: FS1, WJR-AM (760)
- Line: Spartans favored by 3.5 points
Injury Report
Michigan State Spartans
- Out:
- DE Anelu Lafaele
- LB Brady Pretzlaff
- OG Luka Vincic
- DB Andrew Brinson IV
- DB Caleb Gash
- Doubtful: DT Ben Roberts
- Questionable:
- RB Makhi Frazier
- QB Aidan Chiles
- S Nikai Martinez
- CB Chance Rucker
- WR/RB Bryson Williams
- T Stanton Ramil
- OG Kristian Phillips
- K Alante Brown
- DB Ade Willie
- TE Brennan Parachek
- LB Marcus Pulliam
- DB Deuce Edwards
- RB Jace Clarizio
- TE Jaxon Wilson
- K Tarik Ahmetbasic
- LS Kaden Schickel
- S Justin Denson Jr.
Maryland Terrapins
- Out:
- WR Ryan Manning
- CB Lloyd Irvin III
- RB Bud Coombs
- LB DJ Samuels
- CB Judah Jenkins
- LB Keyari James
- RB Solomon Foye
- OG Michael McMonigle
- OG Jaylen Gilchrist
- DL Dimitry Nicolas
- Questionable:
- WR Sean Williams
- DE Daniel Owens
- P Phillip Noyes
- DL DD Homes
Scouting Report
Both teams are struggling as they approach their final game of the season. Michigan State’s offense showed promise earlier this season but faltered in a recent loss against Iowa, marking their eighth consecutive defeat. MSU’s offensive line struggled significantly, leading to only nine plays for six yards in the crucial fourth quarter.
Quarterback Alessio Milivojevic indicated growth with two touchdown passes against Iowa, but he also faced consistent pressure, being sacked twice. The Spartans’ rushing game has averaged a mere 3.6 yards per carry, missing key player Makhi Frazier.
Michigan State’s defense, while able to force turnovers earlier in games, has allowed opponents to score freely. They currently rank among the lowest in several offensive categories within the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS).
Maryland’s Situation
Maryland arrives at this game with its own challenges, on a seven-game losing streak. The Terps’ defense has been porous, allowing high scoring to their opponents, which could be a critical factor in the game. Quarterback Malik Washington has had a notable season as a true freshman, setting a record for passing yards by a Maryland freshman.
Maryland’s defense has been able to create turnovers, exemplified by their 18 interceptions, the highest in the Big Ten. With a plus-seven turnover margin, they have capitalized on opponents’ mistakes, a significant opportunity as they face an MSU team struggling with ball security.
Game Prediction
The matchup between Michigan State and Maryland promises to be decisive for both teams as they aim to turn their seasons around. A close game is anticipated, with Michigan State potentially edging out Maryland 23-17 based on their prior performances and the need for a strong finish to the season.
