Michigan Football: 5 predictions for the Wolverines against Michigan State

Shea Patterson and Brian Lewerke will decide the outcome

At the end of the day, even though they may not like it, Michigan football and Michigan State are pretty similar. Both teams want to win with defense, they want to be physical and they both rely heavily on their quarterbacks.

Last season, the difference between the two teams came at QB. Brian Lewerke wasn’t great at the Big House last season, but he did complete 11-of-22 passes for 94 yards and a touchdown, while also rushing 15 times for 64 yards and a score in the Spartans 14-10 win. Michigan football got three interceptions from John O’Korn, something that can’t happen again which is why Harbaugh brought in a guy like Shea Patterson.

Patterson has been exceptional for the Wolverines, completing 68 percent of his passes, averaging 187 passing yards per game and throwing 10 touchdowns compared to just three interceptions.  He was flawless against Wisconsin, throwing for 124 yards and rushing for 90. Most importantly, he completed 70 percent of his throws and had zero turnovers.

This week, he is faced with a Michigan State defense that ranks 13th in the Big Ten in passing yards allowed, giving up an average of 286 yards per game. Yet, the Spartans have intercepted nine passes this year, ranking just ahead of a Michigan defense that has seven interceptions.

Ultimately, this game is going to come down to which quarterback plays better. Limiting mistakes will be key, but it wouldn’t be surprising to see both Patterson and Lewerke throw at least one pick each.  However, when it comes down to it, the signal caller that plays better in the fourth quarter is probably the one that will walk away victorious.