Gophers vs. Spartans: Last Minute Predictions

Michigan State was slapped with a disappointing 24-3 loss that bought them a ticket out of the Top 15 and delivered a devastating blow to their Big Ten Championship hopes. They don't face an opponent nearly as talented as Nebraska for the rest of the season, but running the table won't be enough to lock down a conference championship this time around.

Even so, they've got a chance to go to a decent bowl game and save face by working their way into the Top 15. To do so, they've got to knock off pesky teams like the one they face this week, Minnesota, who took down Iowa last week in an unforeseen victory at home.

The Golden Gophers are 2-6. Even though they show promise at times, like they did against Iowa last week and in their two-point loss to USC, Minnesota is grossly outmatched. Let's take a closer look to see just how ugly this matchup is going to be.

Where: Spartan Stadium, East Lansing, MI

When: Saturday, Nov. 5 at 12 p.m. ET

Watch: Big Ten Network

Betting Line: Michigan State -28

Go with Michigan State here. The Michigan State defense is embarrassed, but they still only allow 15 PPG. Given that Minnesota gives up 34 PPG, we can expect a wide margin of victory. It may not be the 58-0 beat down Michigan handed the Golden Gophers, but it's going to get ugly.

Who Might Not Play for Minnesota:

Ryan Orton, OL, (Back) Questionable
Devon Wright, RB, (Hamstring) Questionable
Leston Simpson, DE, (Head) Questionable
Harold Legania, DL, (Foot) Questionable
Jimmy Gjere, OL, (Concussion) Questionable
Troy Stoudemire, CB, (Wrist) Questionable
Chris Hawthorne, K, (Leg) Doubtful
Tommy Olson, OL, (Undisclosed) Doubtful
Marcus Jones, WR, (Knee) Out for Season
Brendan Beal, LB, (Knee) Out for Season
Josh Campion, OL, (Concussion) Out for Season

Who Might Not Play for Michigan State:

Chris Norman, LB, (Shoulder) Probable
Steve Gardiner, LB, (Neck) Probable
Larry Caper, RB, (Concussion) Probable
Travis Jackson, C, (Leg) Questionable
Skyler Burkland, T, (Ankle) Out for Season
Antonio Jeremiah, NT, (Knee) Out
Jairus Jones, S, (Achilles) Out
Zach Hueter, G, (Shoulder) Out for Season

Complete USA Today Injury Report

Key Storyline

Will Michigan State sneak back into Big Ten championship picture?

Michigan State's fate will be largely decided by Michigan and Nebraska, but if they drop a game against a lackluster team with nothing to lose, they are completely out of contention. They can't lick their wounds and wonder what might have been. It's about moving on and putting themselves in the best position they can with what they have to work with as a two-loss team.

BCS Implications

A loss and Michigan State won't see the Top 25 for the rest of the season. A win won't send them shooting up the rankings, but a loss will be devastating. As of now, Michigan State has two losses—both coming against ranked teams. An additional loss to a team like Minnesota will be seen as unforgivable.

Minnesota Player to Watch: Marqueis Gray

Marqueis Gray is the one player on Minnesota who can really take over the game. He's leading the team in passing and rushing, and, at his best, there is nothing the opposition can do to stop him. He faces an uphill battle this week, squaring off against one of the best defenses in the country.

Gray has thrown for and rushed for 100 yards in two games this season. He'll have to replicate that production to even give Minnesota a shot at pulling off the upset.

Michigan State Player to Watch: Kirk Cousins

Kirk Cousins looked awful last week. The senior quarterback was a hero the week before when he sealed the Wisconsin win with an epic hail mary. Who was the gentlemen the very next week who threw for 86 yards an no touchdowns? This is a great chance for him to get back on his feet and reestablish himself as the offensive leader we've watched throughout the season.

Key Matchup: Michigan State's defense vs. Minnesota's offense

Jerel Worthy and Michigan State's defense has the raw firepower to ruin an unassuming offense. The Golden Gophers have to avoid being shell-shocked early on. Michigan State has allowed seven or less points four times this season. There is a solid chance they are completely snuffed out in this affair.

Prediction:

Michigan State 44, Minnesota 10