Edge: Hoyer

ND quarterback Jimmy Clausen vs. MSU pass defense

With the Spartans secondary banged up, it’s difficult to judge who gets the edge in this matchup. If cornerbacks junior Kendell Davis-Clark and redshirt sophomore Ross Weaver as well as senior strong safety Nehemiah Warrick sit out, Clausen could have his best game all season. But even if all three defensive backs do sit out, the MSU pass rush (which has recorded 17 sacks) will be enough to throw the true freshman quarterback and his porous offensive line (which has allowed 23 sacks) off their game.

Edge: MSU

MSU running backs vs. ND rush defense

The Fighting Irish defense surrendered 259, 164 and 289 yards rushing in games against Georgia Tech, Penn State and Michigan, respectively. Running backs junior Javon Ringer and senior Jehuu Caulcrick have combined for 472 yards on the ground through three games. Expect that number to surpass 600 on Saturday.

Edge: MSU

ND running backs vs. MSU rush defense

Notre Dame’s running backs by committee system is only in place because neither running back is good enough to carry the load himself – in MSU’s case (and most other teams that rely on two running backs), the running backs are simply too good to have one sit on the bench. James Aldridge and Armando Allen have rushed for 127 yards collectively this season which is less than what MSU averages per game on the ground.

Edge: MSU

MSU wide receiver Devin Thomas vs. ND cornerback Terrail Lambert

This week, though, Hoyer will have more time to locate Thomas, whereas he often hurried his throws against the Panthers. The Fighting Irish have done well against the pass by allowing 114 yards per game through the air this season, but Thomas should be able to break free from Lambert this weekend.

Edge: MSU