I follow MSU athletics as close as anyone and I can tell you what seems like an easy game/cover can often be challenging for them. Probably no college football team has underachieved in the past 20 years more than MSU. Remember, last year, they struggled to beat Idaho at home by only 10 points. An Idaho team that was one of the worst 5 teams in the country.
I expect a more focused and disciplined MSU team this year meaning less penalties, less ugly losses (i.e. no more losing to Louisiana Tech, Rutgers [not good at the time], or close victories against Idaho). However, it remains to be seen what Mark Dantonio can do. The offense will emphasize run and a grind out style and the defense should be much improved. UAB will be one of the worst in the country this year so in theory MSU should dominate since they are the more talented team and at home but given their historic underachieving tendancies you might (probably) have to sweat this one out. Slight lean toward MSU but probably won't play it.
I see far more value on MSU this year as dogs during the Big Ten seaon. They have a tendacy to play much better in that role.
Good luck!
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