MSU junior quarterback Brian Hoyer vs. Northwestern secondary
Hoyer found some rhythm last week against Wisconsin, so look for him to keep it up Saturday against the Wildcats. Last week’s game may have been a statement performance by Hoyer; it may have signaled that he is getting comfortable as the starting quarterback. Northwestern’s secondary has forced a Big Ten-low two interceptions this season and allowed the second most passing touchdowns in the conference.
Edge: Hoyer
MSU running backs vs. Northwestern run defense
Running backs senior Jehuu Caulcrick and junior Javon Ringer have been nearly unstoppable this year, and that trend is not likely to end Saturday. The Spartans earn the third most yards per game on the ground while the Wildcats allow the third most yards per game on the ground. Given that, MSU will be taking plenty.
Edge: MSU
Northwestern quarterback C.J. Bacher vs. MSU secondary
Spartan cornerbacks had a difficult time shutting down Wisconsin tight end Travis Beckum last week but did an efficient job against the Badgers’ wide receivers. Wisconsin wide receivers Luke Swan and Kyle Jefferson accounted for four receptions for 86 yards — 64 of which came on a Jefferson touchdown. Northwestern’s spread offensez has been clicking though, putting the Wildcats third in passing yards per game in the Big Ten. Unfortunately for Northwestern, Bacher has thrown just four touchdown passes, giving Northwestern the fewest touchdown passes in the Big Ten.
Edge: MSU
Northwestern running backs vs. MSU run defense
Northwestern is sorely missing running back Tyrell Sutton, who is out with an ankle injury. Omar Conteh and Brandon Roberson – the replacements for the two-time 1,000-yard rusher Sutton — have been unable to fill the void. The Wildcats rank dead last in the conference in rushing yards per game and second to last in rushing touchdowns. It will be an easy adjustment for the Spartans.
Edge: MSU
MSU junior wide receiver Devin Thomas vs. Northwestern cornerback Deante Battle
Thomas has been a spark for the Spartans as an all-around athlete but especially as a deep-play threat. Battle was beaten a few times by Ohio State wide receiver Brian Robiskie, and Michigan wide receiver Mario Manningham racked up 123 yards on 10 receptions against Battle. Thomas should have another strong game this week.
Edge: Thomas
Compiled by Zack Colman
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