5 things to watch for Michigan football vs. Michigan State

Michigan football will defend the Paul Bunyan Trophy this week against Michigan State and here are five things to watch. 

When it comes to Michigan football and Michigan State, you can throw the records out the window. The Spartans have a way of upsetting the Wolverines, even when they are heavy underdog.

This Michigan football team should be extremely focused. Not only are the Wolverines aiming to win a national championship, but they are looking for a second straight win over MSU.

The players haven’t talked about the post-game incident between the two teams last season, but you can bet the Wolverines haven’t forgotten.

As far as the 2-4 Spartans are concerned, this is an important game in terms of them reaching a bowl game. It would also save their season.

It will be the first and only game for Harlon Barnett as Michigan State head coach against Michigan football and here are five things to watch.

Can J.J. McCarthy notch another rivalry win?

J.J. McCarthy has had some great moments against rivals. He’s 2-0 as a starter against Michigan State and Ohio State. He also played a role in the win over the Buckeyes in 2021.

McCarthy did have a touchdown pass in the loss to Michigan State, as well as a fourth-quarter exchange that was fumbled between him and Blake Corum.

One of the few things McCarthy hasn’t done yet during his career is win at Spartan Stadium and I would love to see him exercise those 2021 demons on Saturday.

It’s going to be a raucous atmosphere and hopefully, McCarthy can keep thriving as he has all season.