2010 Michigan State Football Predictions
The Michigan State Spartans finished the 2009-10 season with a 6-7 record, but they could have easily recorded three more wins. They lost to Central Michigan, Notre Dame and Iowa by a combined seven points. Al lot of talent returns, so there is reason to believe some of those close games might swing in Michigan State’s favor this season. The offense was the second-best scoring unit in the Big Ten in 2009, averaging 29.7 points per game, and I don’t expect any drop off. The key to entering the conference title discussion will largely depend on how much one of the worst pass defenses in the country can improve. The Spartans ranked dead last in the Big Ten (112th nationally) in pass defense, giving up 267.6 yards per game. While the Spartans avoid Ohio State on the schedule this year, they still have the major task of winning at Michigan, Iowa and Penn State.
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Offense: Michigan State returns plenty of offensive firepower from a unit that was one of the best in the league a season ago. The offense could be even better in 2010 if quarterback Kirk Cousins and running backs Larry Caper and Edwin Baker continue to progress as expected. Cousins was pretty darn good in 2009 as it was. He helped Michigan State rank No. 1 in the Big Ten in passing efficiency and No. 2 in passing offense. Cousins finished with 2,680 yards and 19 touchdowns with nine interceptions. Caper and Baker combined for 895 yards in their freshman campaign. Caper was slightly more productive, rushing for 468 yards and six scores. The receiving unit is very good with Keshawn Martin, Mark Dell and B.J. Cunningham. Former quarterback Keith Nichol has moved to wide receiver as well. The Spartans also boast one of the best tight ends in the league in Charlie Gantt. Martin is a player to watch because of his big play ability. He averaged nearly 23 yards per catch last season.
Defense: While the defense played well at times last season, holding five opponents to 15 or fewer points, it was very inconsistent. In fact, it also gave up 29 or more points in seven different games. Pass defense was a major problem for the Spartans a season ago, and it will continue to be one until they can find a consistent pass rush. Middle linebacker Greg Jones did everything in his power to keep the defense competitive last season. He made plays all over the field on his way to a 154-tackle, nine-sack campaign. But Jones needs help. Led by Jerel Worthy, the interior of the defensive line is solid, but the Spartans are lacking difference makers at the defensive end spots. The Spartans return three of four starting defensive backs, but they will continue to struggle in coverage if they aren’t aided by an effective pass rush.
Prediction: 6th Big Ten – While I don’t see a Big Ten title in the cards for Michigan State, the Spartans have a chance to do something pretty special this season. They have an excellent opportunity to become bowl eligible for a fourth straight season, and that would mark their longest streak since 1987-1990. This just goes to show you the level of talent that coach Mark Dantonio has been able to get. College football odds makers have listed Michigan State at +1200 to win the Big Ten title.
Be sure to check out my 2010 Big 10 football predictions to see how I have the rest of the league stacking up. My 2010 college football predictions let you in on all of my conference championship picks.
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