How to watch Purdue vs. Michigan State on TV or online, plus 3 things to know

Purdue went bold with its non-conference schedule this year, despite the fact that it’s one of the worst teams in the power conferences. That backfired, with losses to every FBS team the Boilermakers have played so far. Purdue looked decent in the opener at Marshall but lost that game and went on to lose to Bowling Green and Virginia Tech at home. So Darrell Hazell’s team sits at 1-3 with a whole Big Ten schedule still to go, and a bowl game doesn’t look likely once again.

The schedule doesn’t get any easier as conference season begins. Purdue opens the season at a Michigan State team that ranks second in the country. But despite the high ranking, the Spartans haven’t been overly impressive so far this year. They beat Oregon at home, but that looks less impressive after the Ducks were destroyed by Utah. Wins over Air Force and Central Michigan were unconvincing.

It’s unlikely Purdue can take down Michigan State, but both teams need to make a statement, even if MSU wins. Purdue needs to show progress by keeping the score close, and Michigan State needs to have a convincing win to show that it hasn’t taken a step back after last season.

TV: Noon ET, ESPN2

Radio: Purdue, Michigan State

Online streaming: WatchESPN

Spread: Michigan State is favored by 24.5 points.

Make friends: Get to SB Nation’s team blog chats for this game at The Only Colors for Michigan State fans and Hammer and Rails for Purdue fans.

1. The Michigan State defense hasn’t been itself so far this year, after the departure of defensive coordinator Pat Narduzzi. The Spartans rank 26th in the nation, according to the S&P+ ratings, and eighth in the Big Ten. That’s not up to typical MSU standards.

2. Aaron Burbridge is an absolute stud at receiver, and he should have some fun against the Purdue secondary.

3. Hazell could be in trouble at Purdue. He’s not expected to win this one, but an embarrassing loss wouldn’t help him.