It's been a while since Michigan State has won a football game — over a month to be exact. The Spartans defeated Indiana 40-31 back on Sept. 28 to move to 4-1 on the year. Since then, Michigan State has scored two touchdowns, lost three games against ranked opponents and is now fighting for bowl eligibility to end the season. That goal begins on Saturday when the Spartans host a surprisingly hot Illinois football team that, with a win, becomes bowl eligible for the first time since 2014.
Who: Michigan State vs Illinois
When: 3:30 p.m. EDT
Where: Spartan Stadium
Weather: Estimated 41 degrees at kickoff, according to Weather Underground
TV: Fox Sports 1
Radio: Spartan Sports Network: (WJR-AM 760 in Detroit, WWMQ-FM 94.9 in Lansing. Full local listings here).
Spread: -14.5 Michigan State, O/U 46
Michigan State players to watch: QB Brian Lewerke, RB Elijah Collins, LB Noah Harvey
Illinois players to watch: QB Brandon Peters, WR Josh Imatorbhebhe, LB Dele Harding
Storylines:
As Michigan State's roster shrinks, opportunities for rookies grow
'This is a playoff game': Lovie Smith says Illinois puts extra emphasis on upcoming matchup against MSU
Spartans stay focused despite rough stretch
Michigan State linebacker Joe Bachie declared ineligible by Big Ten for failed drug test
Prediction:
Justin Frommer: 20-10, Michigan State
Amanda Poole: 21-17, Illinois
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