One of the Big Ten's biggest rivalries is here, and it isn't anything like we could have imagined it a month ago. Michigan State looked like a College Football Playoff contender entering the season, while Michigan was supposed to be have promise under new coach Jim Harbaugh, but still be in rebuilding more nonetheless. However, halfway through the season, the tables have turned.
How to watch Michigan State vs. Michigan on TV or online, plus 3 things to know
This rivalry just got big again.
After losing its season opener at Utah in a game that now looks much more forgivable, Michigan has gone on a roll. The Wolverines have improved each game and become the first team to shut out three straight opponents in 20 years. That streak started with a win over BYU, which had already beaten Nebraska and Boise State, and finished with a 38-0 domination of No. 13 Northwestern. Right now, the Wolverines look like a good pick to make the Rose Bowl, or maybe even the Playoff.
MSU has won five of six in this series, and the Spartans climbed as high as No. 2 in the nation after beating Oregon in week two. However, MSU has been unimpressive in the rest of its wins, and the Oregon win has lost its luster. Most recently, the Spartans struggled with Big Ten bottom feeders Purdue and Rutgers. Beat Michigan, though, and everything will get better.
How to watch, stream and listen
TV: 3:30 p.m. ET, ESPN
Radio: Michigan, Michigan State
Online streaming: WatchESPN
Spread: Michigan is favored by 7 points.
Make friends: Get to SB Nation’s team blog chats for this game at Maize n Brew for Michigan fans and The Only Colors for Michigan State fans.
Three big things to know
1. What happens with the Harbaugh hype if Michigan wins this game convincingly? It has to go through the roof, right? Michigan could be a legitimate College Football Playoff contender if it wins this game. That’s pretty hard to believe given last season’s debacle.
2. Can Michigan State fight through the injuries? The Spartans are hobbled on the offensive line and in the secondary. The offense has to be better against Michigan’s incredible defense.
3. Is Jake Rudock settling in? The quarterback is never going to wow anyone, but if he’s consistent and makes the easy throws, Michigan is going to get even better.
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