Purdue vs Michigan State: Spartans Seek Bowl Hopes in Friday Night Big Ten Clash
Michigan State (4-6) hosts Purdue (1-9) in a critical Big Ten matchup on Friday night at Spartan Stadium. The Spartans need to win their final two games to become bowl eligible, while Purdue looks to snap a nine-game losing streak.
Player in black uniform running forward
Michigan State enters as 13.5-point favorites, with the total set at 48.5 points. Kickoff is scheduled for 8pm ET on FOX.
The Spartans have struggled offensively, scoring 17 points or fewer in five of their last six games. They average just 19.4 points per game, though their passing attack (230.8 yards/game) ranks in the Big Ten's top 10. Their defense has been solid, ranking 33rd nationally in yards allowed.
Purdue's defense has been problematic, allowing 38.9 points and 455.7 yards per game. They rank near the bottom nationally in both rush defense (120th) and pass defense (114th). The Boilermakers' offense hasn't fared much better, scoring a conference-low 17.2 points per game.
The Spartans have historically dominated this matchup, winning eight of the last nine meetings. While Michigan State is just 4-6-0 against the spread this season, Purdue's defense has allowed 15+ point margins in all but one road game.
Prediction: Michigan State's passing game should find success against Purdue's struggling defense. With bowl eligibility on the line, expect the Spartans to control the game on both sides of the ball for a comfortable two-touchdown victory.
WOW… Michigan State responds with a TD!! 🙌 @MSU_Football pic.twitter.com/v8Q8kq8eiO
THE DOUBLE PASS!! pic.twitter.com/BBqmqArEMN