My Thoughts on the “Big Game”

As Saturday quickly approaches, I can’t help but find myself wondering which Spartans will show up. Last year’s Spartans were confident; they exuded discipline, heart, and gall. This year’s Spartans have sputtered, leaving a trail of disgruntled and worried Spartan fans in their wake.

 

Yet, as I sit here on Friday, waiting for tomorrow morning’s tailgate, I can’t help but be optimistic about my team’s chances. Why? Because Michigan fans have been relatively quiet. In fact, from what I’ve been experiencing, both teams’ fans have been relatively silent. Sure, Michigan fans will say it’s because, “this game isn’t a rivalry.” But we all know that’s not true. MSU fans on the other hand will say, “our team’s terrible this year,” which may be a little closer to the truth, but still not factual. However, I believe this lack of talk about the “big game” is because both schools actually have something strikingly in common this week: neither knows what to expect from its team.

 

Michigan State may very well be one of the better 1-3 teams in the country. To the same effect, Michigan may be one of the more mediocre 4-0 teams. Either way, the records are what they are, and both camps seem scared.

 

MSU fans are wondering if their defense will be able to contain two talented freshman quarterbacks, while Michigan fans are hoping their freshman quarterbacks don’t choke in their first road game. This could be a huge factor for the Spartans. Tate Forcier claims he never gets nervous, but that could all change when he walks onto the field in his first road game. There are bound to be a lot of Michigan fans inside Spartan stadium, but Forcier will still be dealing with a packed house on a foreign field- this could play some serious games on the young man’s psyche, thus, my optimism.

 

If the Spartans can rattle the young quarterback early, they will have a good chance to win this game. I think Kirk Cousins will be far more relaxed once the game gets underway, and due to the projected weather forecast, Keith Nichol could be a factor on the ground in certain situations. The heat is on for this Spartan team; one bad move could sink the ship that seemed so promising last year. I look for the Spartans to turn it around starting tomorrow.

 

MSU 28  UM 24