The No. 3 Ohio State Buckeyes host the No. 9 Michigan State Spartans in the best game of the week. It's a game that will play a big role in determining the winner of the Big Ten East. So will the 10-0 Buckeyes stay undefeated? Or will the 9-1 Spartans pull the upset? Here's our preview and prediction.
Game Info:
When: 3:30 p.m. ET
Where: Ohio Stadium, Columbus, Ohio
National TV: ABC
Spread: Ohio State by 14
What's At Stake:
This contest has massive Big Ten and College Football Playoff implications. If Michigan State wins, they'll be a victory over Penn State away from a Big Ten East title. A win over OSU will also help their CFP chances, even if a loss to Nebraska a few weeks ago but a dent in those hopes. OSU is No. 3 in the College Football Playoff Rankings and winning out will assure them of a berth. There isn't a matchup this week with bigger playoff implications.
What They Are Saying About The Ohio State Buckeyes:
Every Game Is A Playoff Game, Starting With MSU
Can The Buckeyes Contain The Big Ten's Best Passing Duo?
What They Are Saying About The Michigan State Spartans:
Biggest Game Of Connor Cook's Career
Monumental Matchup For Michigan State
Key To The Game:
Who wins the battle of the trenches? Michigan State has often leaned on its defense, but it hasn't been as sharp this season. That's not a promising sign against an Ohio State offense that uses star RB Ezekiel Elliott early and often. The Spartans run defense is still good, and might be the best unit the Buckeyes have faced this season. This game will come down to Elliott. If he doesn't have his usual strong performance, the Buckeyes could be in trouble.
Prediction: Buckeyes win 31-20
Connor Cook battles through his injured shoulder, but it's still not enough for MSU to win. The Buckeyes are simply a better team, from top to bottom. Elliott has a strong performance and the Buckeyes improve to 11-0.
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