Michigan State vs. Penn State Preview and Prediction

Penn State hosts #11 Michigan State to wrap up the 2014 Big Ten season. The Nittany Lions are looking to knock off the Spartans, after taking Ohio State to double overtime earlier in the year.

Records:

Michigan State: 9-2 (6-1 Big Ten)

Penn State: 6-5 (2-5 Big Ten)

Last Meeting: Michigan State won 28-22 in 2010

Michigan State Outlook: The Spartans are second place in the Big Ten East thanks to Ohio State's undefeated mark, but Michigan State still has a chance to land in the top 10 with a win.

Their only loss was to the Buckeyes, but Michigan State has quickly put that behind them with two dominant performances over Maryland and Rutgers.

Quarterback Connor Cook has efficiently stacked up 2,466 yards and 19 touchdowns this season.

Penn State Outlook: The Nittany Lions dropped a close game to Illinois last week, but they have the six wins necessary to go to a bowl game.

An upset over Michigan State would boost their resume, especially after nearly upsetting Ohio State back in October.

Penn State has been night and day when it comes to the difference between their offense and defense. Defensively, they boast one of the top units in the country, allowing just over 16 points per game. Offensively, they've scored just 20.6, ranking them outside of the top 100.

What to watch for: There is always a possibility for an upset here, and Michigan State needs to come out focused to avoid it. They've looked good since the Buckeyes loss, but Penn State's defense could prove to be a factor if an upset happens.

Prediction:

Michigan State - 24, Penn State - 13

Look for Cook's poise to keep the Spartans on top, but the Nittany Lions defense is going to be a factor. The biggest issue with an upset will be the fact that Penn State isn't going to beat Michigan State if they can't even produce 20 points.

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