The Call: Gophers vs. Michigan State

By Joe Christensen Star Tribune

November 29, 2013 — 8:51pm

THE OPPONENT

Michigan State is 7-0 in the Big Ten for the first time since 1966 and will meet Ohio State for the league title regardless of Saturday's outcome.

11 a.m., Spartan Stadium • TV: BTN • Radio: 100.3-FM

Line: Spartans by 16 • Series: Michigan State leads 28-17

Gophers offense vs. Spartans defense

Michigan State has the nation's fourth-ranked scoring defense (12.5 points per game) and leads the nation in total defense (236.6 yards per game) and rushing defense (59.4 yards per game). The Gophers will look to move quarterback Philip Nelson from the pocket, as he is a better passer on the run. Advantage: Spartans.

Spartans offense vs. Gophers defense

Michigan State averages 30.8 points compared to 20.0 last year. The Spartans rely on Jeremy Langford, who has surpassed the 100-yard rushing mark six straight games. Strong-armed sophomore quarterback Connor Cook has six 200-yard passing games. The Spartans lead the Big Ten in time of possession, at 34:38. Advantage: Spartans.

Special teams

Freshman kicker Michael Geiger has made 10 consecutive field goals for the Spartans and is 6-for-6 this year from beyond 40 yards. Michigan State's Mike Sadler is one of 10 semifinalists for the Ray Guy Award, given to the nation's top punter. Advantage: Spartans.

Intangibles

Michigan State will play Ohio State next week in the Big Ten title game, so the Spartans might look past the Gophers, even though this game could solidify chances of at least getting an at-large BCS berth. Advantage: Gophers.

Prediction

The Gophers are 6-5 in their past 11 meetings against Michigan State. The letdown factor could present an opportunity for Minnesota here, but the Spartans are too good and too well-coached to let this slip.

Michigan State24

Gophers17

NUMBERS TO KNOW

+14

Michigan State's Big Ten-best turnover margin — 10 turnovers, 24 takeaways.

Gophers Big Ten road wins, their most since 2003.