Dennis Fithian's MSU And U-M Weekend Predictions

By Dennis Fithian

Michigan State +12.5 @ Oregon: The Spartans have what it takes to pull the upset on Saturday night in Eugene. Pat Narduzzi is one of the best defensive coordinators in the country. The Spartans have the playmakers on all three levels of their defense.

The MSU offense will need to take the slow-down approach and go on long, sustained drives to keep the ball away from Oregon's quick/quick strike offense. Having dealt with Ohio State's Braxton Miller in the past should help the Spartans know what kind of effort they'll have to come up with against Oregon's talented quarterback, Marcus Mariota. The Ducks are too good to get upset, but the Spartans have too many factors going for them to get blown out.

Prediction: Oregon 30 Michigan State 24

Michigan +2.5 @ Notre Dame: It's been a great series between these two teams over the years. Expect Michigan to struggle with their offensive line play. Lack of protection and a running game puts too much pressure on U-M quarterback Devin Gardner to perform like he did a year ago when, with the exception of one play, he was brilliant.

Prediction Notre Dame 23 Michigan 13