Notre Dame vs. Michigan State Spread

Written September 15, 2008 by Jason Lowry

Saturday Sept. 20th Notre Dame looks to go 3-0 as they take on the 2-1 Michigan State Spartans. Notre Dame looks like it might be back to its winning ways, after handing the Michigan Wolverines a 35-17 defeat last week. Michigan State has now won 2 in a row after taking down Florida Atlantic last week 17-0. This is always a tough game for both teams, and it should be a good one again this year.

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Current Odds at JustBet.com
Notre Dame +8.5
Michigan State -8.5

Notre Dame really came out and showed the country that they need to start being taken seriously, as they came out and put 21 points on the board in just a little over 10 minutes. It wasn’t close from there on out, as the Irish tacked on two more scores to secure the win. Quarterback Jimmy Clausen was average throwing for just 147 yards with 2 scores and 2 interceptions. The running game was led by Robert Hughes, who piled up 79 yards on 19 carries plus 2 scores. There is no question that how bad the Wolverines offense was played a part, but you have to give credit for the Irish putting the ball in the endzone and not settling for field goals.

The Irish defense definitely did his part in this one, as they forced 6 turnovers, and letting the offense have great field position all day long. Both Gary Gray and David Bruton grabbed an interception, and Brian Smith grabbed one of the many fumbles for a 35 yard score in the 4th quarter. The Irish defense will be tested on the ground this week, and if the defense wins the turnover battle like it did last week, it will be hard for any team to keep up. Bet Notre Dame +8.5 at JustBet.com

The Spartans offense will be responsible for making sure that doesn’t happen, as they try and build off the win last week. The passing game was pretty much non-existent as quarterback Brian Hoyer was able to complete just 5 out of 15 passes for just 88 yards. The reason Hoyer only threw 15 times, is because running back Javon Ringer ran the ball an incredible 43 times for 282 yards and 2 touchdowns. So its pretty easy to see this team is one dimensional, and if they can’t get the running game going, it will likely be a long day against the Irish.

The Spartans defense did its job keeping Florida Atlantic off the scoreboard, but that is how it should of went against the Owls pathetic offense. The Spartans defense was able to force two turnovers, and never let the Owls get anything going. They are going to get a much tougher test this weekend, and a lot will be learned on just how good this Spartans team is, but it should get a good boost from the home crowd in a game against a team like Notre Dame. Bet Michigan State -8.5 at JustBet.com

Predicted Score:
Fighting Irish 13
Spartans 21

If you want some help on who to pick this weekend in the NCAA and NFL, check out what professional handicapper Jason Lowry has his money on this weekend.

Huskers Gameday included Notre Dame/Michigan State in their weekly college football picks, definitely worth a read for additional information on some of the big games.

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