The Spartans welcome Penn State to Spartan Stadium on Saturday (3:30 p.m., ABC) in a game that has major bowl implications. The outcome of the game will affect almost every bowl-eligible Big Ten team.
Two years ago, the Spartans overcame a 17-point, second-half deficit to win their seventh game of the season and they’ll try to pull out another victory this year. The Nittany Lions (9-2, 5-2) have not lost a road game this season.
Here are four key matchups that will determine the outcome of Saturday’s game.
MSU quarterback Kirk Cousins vs. Penn State pass defense
Cousins struggled last week against a strong Purdue secondary but finished with three touchdown passes. He’ll be playing against another top pass defense in Penn State.
The Nittany Lions allow just 178 yards per game via the air and only have given up seven passing touchdowns this season.
But Cousins is the conference’s most efficient passer and has become a better decision maker as the season has worn on.
Cousins played in the blowout loss to Penn State last season, so he does have some experience against the Nittany Lions. Cousins won’t have spectacular numbers, but he’ll do enough to keep the Spartans in the game.
Advantage: Cousins
MSU running backs vs. Penn State front seven
The Nittany Lions always have been tough in the trenches.
“Linebacker U” isn’t short of spectacular players behind the defensive line and the Nittany Lions are second in the Big Ten in rush defense, only allowing 93 yards per game.
The Spartans have struggled all season to run the ball and a sure starter has not emerged.
The Spartans don’t have speed in the backfield, so they’ll be running a power game up the middle — something the Nittany Lions love to face.
Advantage: Penn State
MSU wide receiver Keshawn Martin vs. Penn State kick coverage
Martin has been the most explosive player for the Spartans this season, especially on special teams.
He returned a kick for a touchdown against Minnesota and returned a kick 85 yards that set up the game-winning field goal last week.
Penn State often has given up big plays on special teams, and it will provide Martin an opportunity. Consistent returns by Martin will help the offense by giving them a shorter field to play on.
Advantage: Martin
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MSU front seven vs. Penn State offensive line
Penn State quarterback Daryll Clark has been sitting pretty this season, being sacked the fewest amount of times in the Big Ten.
It will be vital for the Spartans to get pressure on Clark because he is one of the most dangerous passers in the Big Ten.
If the Spartans can get pressure on Clark, it will be a huge boost for the MSU secondary and the defense as a whole.
Advantage: Split
