The Michigan State Spartans will play host to the Oregon Ducks in one of the most hyped and talked about games of the regular season. Both teams have aspirations of making the College Football Playoff and want to get their seasons off to a great start with a win over another traditional power. Here are 5 bold predictions for what to expect tonight:
5) Royce Freeman will run for over 125 yards
Freeman had a freshman season that suceeded everyone's wildest expectations, becoming the first true freshman in Oregon history to rush for over 1,000 yards. More specifically, the 5-11, 230-pounder ran for 1,365 yards and 18 touchdowns on just 252 carries. He dominated Eastern Washington in their opener, rushing for 180 yards and three touchdowns on just 21 carries. While Michigan State's defense is obviously a big step up from EWU, Freeman's scary combination of speed and power will give the Spartans fits.
4) Connor Cook will show why he's considered to be a top QB prospect, putting up nearly 500 passing yards
Oregon's defense really struggled against the pass in their opener, giving up 438 yards through the air. Cook and Michigan State's offense play at a much higher level than EWU - particularly in the passing game - and shouldn't have any trouble moving the ball through the air.
3) Michigan State's defense will struggle
The Spartans' usually stout defense looked suspect against Western Michigan, allowing 383 total yards to the Broncos in their opener. The loss of defensive coordinator Pat Narduzzi, who is now the head coach at Pitt, really showed in that game, and the defense will only struggle more against Oregon's elite athletes.
2) Vernon Adams will be the difference
Oregon's new quarterback lived up to the hype in his debut, passing for 246 yards and two touchdowns while rushing for 94 more yards. His dual-threat ability is the kind of stuff that gives defensive coordinators nightmares, and he should be able to exploit whatever holes the Spartans defense gives him.
1) Oregon will win in a wild shootout
Michigan State will hold the lead for most of the game since they're playing at home, but considering the struggles of both defenses, offense will be the theme for the day. Oregon has a more explosive offense and more playmaking weapons than the Spartans, and they will ultimately be able to outscore Michigan State late in the fourth quarter.
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