He has accounted for more than 300 yards in four of his five games, and has carried the Wolverines on his back this season.

The game is set for Saturday at Michigan Stadium (3:30, ABC).

U-M is third in the nation in rushing and has been scoring at a high rate.

On Saturday, the Wolverines will meet an MSU defense that is coming off its best performance of the season in a 34-24 win against Wisconsin, in which it tackled well and held Wisconsin’s power rushing attack to 165 yards.

Here’s a look at how the Spartans and Wolverines match up…

U-M quarterback Denard Robinson vs. MSU defense

Last year, Robinson was competing for time with starter Tate Forcier on a team that failed to reach a bowl game. But this year he’s been the most explosive player in the country.

This game will be Robinson’s first true test as the Spartans’ physicality is greater than that of his previous opponents.

After tackling Wisconsin running back John Clay last week, the Spartans’ confidence is high. But U-M’s offensive system is so unique that it’ll be difficult for last week’s performance to carry over for MSU.

MSU’s front seven has been stout, allowing only 101.2 yards per game on the ground and generating pressure on the opposing quarterback. But it all comes down to whether or not MSU can tackle well for the second straight week and hold Robinson to just a few yards on his carries. If Robinson is held to one or two big plays, MSU has a good chance of winning this game.
Edge: U-M

U-M wide receivers vs. MSU secondary

The Spartans’ ability to defend the short pass once again will be tested Saturday as the Wolverines like to spread the ball around to a bevy of talented receivers.

Coming off its best performance of the season, the MSU secondary received a boost of confidence.

MSU has broken up 28 passes this season, which is an average of five per game, while its opponents have broken up just 15.

The Spartans have equaled last season’s total of six interceptions just five games into the season.

The Wolverines rotate several different receivers, throwing regularly to six pass catchers.

Each one possesses his own skill set, but as a unit, it’s one of the best in the Big Ten. The Spartans will try to continue improving this season, but U-M will offer a challenge.
Edge: U-M

MSU quarterback Kirk Cousins vs. U-M secondary

If there’s a unit that still has much to prove, it’s U-M’s secondary. The group has come under fire and has been unable to thrive in the past three seasons. The Wolverines have been shredded for an FBS-worst 307.8 yards per game, and will face a tough Spartans’ passing attack Saturday.

The Spartans threw for 269 yards against Wisconsin and have one of the most athletic receiving corps in the country.

Junior wide receiver Keshawn Martin has been a stalwart on special teams, as he returned a punt for a touchdown Saturday and has made versatile plays.

Junior quarterback Kirk Cousins is in rhythm and the Spartans are catching the ball. It will be tough for U-M to keep pace.
Edge: MSU

MSU running game vs. U-M front seven

U-M’s run defense is ranked 38th in the country and has several players that are capable of stepping up.

The Wolverines have been susceptible to the run, but have done a good job limiting the damage this season.

MSU is averaging 220.2 rushing yards per game, and has done a good job in both of its tests this season against Notre Dame and Wisconsin.

U-M boasts playmaking defensive linemen Mike Martin and Ryan Van Bergen, who will need to be at their best Saturday against an MSU offensive line that has been impressive.

Sophomore Edwin Baker and freshman Le’Veon Bell allow for a good running attack and will put up yardage against U-M, but on third-down-and-short, both teams seem to possess the ability to make a play.
Edge: MSU