Michigan Wolverines vs. Michigan State Spartans 10/21/23 – In the classic showdown between the Michigan teams, the undefeated Michigan Wolverines are set to face the underperforming Michigan State Spartans. While the Wolverines aim to extend their dominant run, the Spartans seek a turnaround from their challenging beginnings. As bettors eye this intense rivalry, the debate centers on the anticipated NCAAF winning pick.
Michigan Wolverines vs. Michigan State Spartans
Date & Time: Saturday, October 21, 2023 at 7:30 PM ET
Location: Spartan Stadium
TV: NBC
Michigan Wolverines vs. Michigan State Spartans 10/21/23 Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Michigan | -2500 | -24 (-110) | 46.5 over (-110) |
| Michigan State | +1150 | +24 (-110) | 46.5 under (-110) |
Michigan Wolverines Analysis
Michigan Wolverines have shown themselves to be formidable on offense this year. J.J. McCarthy leads their offense as quarterback with an incredible 78.2% completion rate and 1,512 passing yards accumulated to date, making him one of the premier passers in the league. Complementing McCarthy is running back Blake Corum. Corum has amassed 546 rushing yards at an impressive average of 5.7 yards per rush attempt, thanks to his agility and field vision, making the Wolverines’ running attack one of a kind. Additionally, Roman Wilson has proven invaluable as an offensive weapon averaging 15.8 yards per reception with nine touchdowns on average; providing them with a versatile multi-dimensional attack to put pressure on defenses.
Michigan’s defensive record may suggest dominance, yet there remain issues that need addressing. Their undefeated streak is admirable; however, past performances against Michigan State, particularly at Spartan Stadium on the road, have left much to be desired. Containing their offense presents unique challenges – so the Wolverines must work to ensure both defensive line and secondary play in unison, without any breakdowns that might allow Spartans an edge.
Michigan State Spartans Analysis
Offensively, the Michigan State Spartans present a mixed bag. QB Noah Kim, while having a decent arm with over 1,000 passing yards, has shown inconsistency with a 56.9% completion rate. However, this doesn’t detract from his potential to turn the game around with a single deep pass, as evidenced by his 72-yard longest pass. RB Nathan Carter has been a beacon of consistency for the Spartans, notching up 529 rushing yards with an average of 4.7 yards per rush attempt. His ability to break tackles and gain those extra yards can prove crucial in close situations. In the air, WR Montorie Foster Jr. serves as Kim’s reliable target, pulling in 274 yards and a touchdown. The synergy between Kim and Foster could be the key to unlocking the Wolverines’ defense.
Defensively, the Spartans can be likened to a sleeping giant. Their home record and past encounters with the Wolverines, especially at Spartan Stadium, suggest a team that rises to the occasion. Historically, the Spartans have displayed tenacity and resilience, often frustrating the Wolverines’ potent offense. However, recent struggles against other Big Ten conference teams indicate vulnerabilities, particularly in their secondary. The Spartans will need to fortify their defensive ranks, ensuring they can withstand the onslaught from McCarthy, Corum, and Wilson.
Michigan Wolverines vs. Michigan State Spartans Against the Spread
Michigan has been dominant lately, with a 7-0 straight-up (SU) record in their last 7 games. Their road record is also impressive, being undefeated in their last 8 away games. However, bettors should be cautious; the Wolverines are 1-6 against the spread (ATS) when playing on the road against the Spartans.
On the other hand, Michigan State has showcased strength at home, with a 12-5 SU record in their last 17 home games. Moreover, they’ve been a reliable pick ATS when playing against the Wolverines at Spartan Stadium, going 6-1 in their last 7 matchups.
Michigan Wolverines vs. Michigan State Spartans Free Pick
Based on odds, trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:
Moneyline: Michigan -2500
Despite the Spartans’ historical home advantage, the Wolverines’ current form makes them the safer moneyline pick.
Spread: Michigan State +24 (-110)
Given the Wolverines’ struggles ATS against the Spartans on the road and the Spartans’ strength ATS at home against the Wolverines, taking the Spartans with the points seems the logical choice.
Total: 46.5 under (-110)
Considering the recent trends and Michigan State’s historical under performances against the Wolverines, it seems prudent to bet the under.
Predicted Score: Michigan Wolverines 30, Michigan State Spartans 10
In conclusion, while the Wolverines appear to be the stronger team this season, the Spartans have a history of performing well against them, especially at home. Those involved in Canadian sports betting should consider these factors and be strategic with their wagers. This rivalry never disappoints, and the upcoming matchup promises to be another classic.
