The Michigan State game is always important for Michigan football. But with the way the 2024 season has gone for the Wolverines, it takes on new importance.
Beating Michigan State might be the only redeeming thing that the Wolverines do this season. Sort of like in 2021, when Michigan football struggled to an 8-5 record. At least they beat MSU though -- on a last-second field goal.
That's how this would feel. It wouldn't change this season but it would salvage something. Lose to Michigan State and 2024 is a failure. Unless of course, the Wolverines somehow win "The Game."
Just beating Michigan State seems hard enough though, especially after the Spartans handled Iowa last week and in addiiton to winning the game 32-20, racked up 468 yards of total offense with 212 coming on the ground.
That's impressive no matter how you slice it. That's more competent than Michigan has looked all season and looking ahead to Saturday night, here's a look at the odds, how to watch, and a prediction.
Michigan football vs. Michigan State odds
The Wolverines are a 4-point favorite according to DraftKings. The over/under is 40.5 and the moneyline is +142 for MSU and -170 for Michigan football.
Michigan vs. Michigan State How to watch
Date: October 25th
Game Time: 7:30 PM EST
Venue: The Big House
How to Watch: Big Ten Network | Fubo TV
Michigan football vs. Michigan State prediction against the spread
I'm not going to lie, I've been terrible picking the Wolverines against the spread this season (1-6). This team has been overestimated too much and I think it might be happening again.
MSU QB Aidan Chiles has been up and down with six touchdowns and nine interceptions. He was good last week but Michigan should have a chance to rattle him.
The defense played really well against Illinois. The offense and special teams dropped the ball. Michigan might need a defensive touchdown to win this game, plus 3-4 field goals. It might not be able to get touchdowns, but if U-M can at least avoid turnovers, it can salvage a win.