Hoyer, though, had an impressive game against UAB, which included completing his first 10 passes. Once the Falcons start overcompensating against the run, the passing game should open up for Hoyer.

Edge: MSU

QB Tyler Sheehan vs. MSU secondary

Sheehan exploded for 388 passing yards and two touchdown passes in week one against the Golden Gophers. The pass-heavy Bowling Green offense will allow Sheehan to show the Spartans and the rest of the Big Ten what kind of arm he has.

Although the MSU secondary was rested often against UAB, they could have used a little more playing time to fine-tune a few things. Virtually every cornerback was guilty of blown coverage at least once in the game, but the difference this week is the Falcons won’t drop the ball.

Edge: Sheehan

MSU running backs vs. Bowling Green run defense

Running backs senior Jehuu Caulcrick and junior Javon Ringer are looking at another big game. After tearing a meteor-sized hole in the inexperienced Blazers front seven during last week’s first half, they will be counted on to carry the team this week – and that task might not be too difficult. Minnesota running backs compiled 246 yards on the ground last week against the Falcons.

Edge: MSU

RB Chris Bullock vs. MSU run defense

Bullock touched the ball just nine times last week, but that’s not because he doesn’t have talent. A Freshman All-American last season, Bullock averaged 5.2 yards per carry on his limited runs last week. Still, though, the Falcons lost both of their offensive guards, and the Spartans held UAB to 12 net yards rushing last week.

Edge: MSU

MSU WR Devin Thomas vs. BG CB Kenny Lewis

Thomas torched the Blazers last week for 106 yards receiving, including a 44-yard touchdown catch. While he is not typically known as a big play threat, when the ball is thrown his way he catches it.

Lewis led Bowling Green with four interceptions last season and already has one this year. Lewis’ real game experience might help him out against the first-year starter Thomas.

Edge: Even

BG WR Corey Partridge vs. MSU CB Kendell Davis-Clark

Partridge is a consistent receiver, collecting 55 receptions for 658 yards and three touchdowns last season. If he’s open, he’ll catch the ball. The problem is getting separation, as Partridge isn’t one to grab the long toss.

Davis-Clark played a decent game last week, but there is room for improvement. He will have to be on high alert Saturday because Partridge seems to have natural sticky tack on his hands.

Edge: Partridge

Compiled by Zack Colman