Eric Boggs
As Ohio State prepares to visit East Lansing for their Week 5 showdown against Michigan State, both teams find themselves on vastly different trajectories. The Buckeyes are undefeated at 3-0, building momentum with dominant wins against lesser opponents and eyeing a national title run. Meanwhile, Michigan State sits at 3-1, showing promise under new head coach Jonathan Smith, though still facing growing pains as they try to rebuild their program.
With the Buckeyes aiming to remain a College Football Playoff contender and the Spartans looking to prove they can compete at a high level, the stakes are high for both teams.
Michigan State’s Season So Far
Michigan State’s season has been one of growth and adjustment. Under first-year head coach Jonathan Smith, the Spartans have already notched three wins against Florida Atlantic, Maryland, and Prairie View A&M, though a heartbreaking loss to Boston College in Week 4 underscored their need for improvement. The Spartans’ roster features 61 new players, highlighting the extensive overhaul underway.
One of the key storylines for Michigan State has been the development of their young, dual-threat quarterback, Aiden Chiles. Although Chiles has flashed potential, his inexperience has led to some costly mistakes. His mobility, however, could pose a unique challenge for Ohio State’s defense, which has struggled historically against mobile quarterbacks. Along with a solid running back duo in K-Ron Lynch-Adams and Nate Carter, Michigan State boasts a balanced rushing attack that could help control the clock and keep Ohio State’s offense off the field.
Key Matchups
Aiden Chiles vs. Ohio State’s Defense
Chiles’ ability to extend plays with his legs will be critical in keeping Michigan State’s offense alive. Ohio State’s defense, led by coordinator Jim Knowles, has been solid but untested against a quarterback with Chiles’ mobility. If the young quarterback can avoid turnovers, Michigan State might be able to stay competitive. However, Ohio State’s defense has been opportunistic and could capitalize on any mistakes.
Michigan State’s Defensive Line vs. Ohio State’s Offensive Line
Michigan State’s defensive front has been a bright spot this season, registering 15 sacks through four games, 10 of which have come from the defensive line. Led by edge rusher Chris Bogle, the Spartans have consistently pressured opposing quarterbacks. Ohio State’s offensive line, while improved, remains a point of concern. If Michigan State can disrupt Ohio State quarterback Kyle McCord and limit the Buckeyes’ offensive rhythm, the Spartans may keep the game close.
Ohio State’s Wide Receivers vs. Michigan State’s Secondary
Ohio State’s receiving corps, headlined by Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emeka Egbuka, is one of the best in the country. Michigan State’s secondary, led by Ed Woods and Charles Brantley, has improved but will face their toughest challenge yet. Turnovers could be the key for Michigan State’s defense, which has already forced multiple interceptions this season.
Ohio State’s Perspective
From Ohio State’s perspective, confidence should be high heading into this matchup. The Buckeyes have dominated Michigan State in recent years, scoring at least 38 points in each of their last six meetings. However, Ohio State’s offensive line will need to handle Michigan State’s aggressive pass rush, and McCord must be ready to capitalize on his dynamic wide receivers.
The Buckeyes’ running game, led by TreVeyon Henderson, will be crucial in establishing offensive balance. If Ohio State can control the line of scrimmage and open up passing lanes for McCord, they should have little trouble putting points on the board.
Michigan State’s Defensive Test
Michigan State’s defense, which has been resilient this season, faces a tall order in stopping Ohio State’s high-powered offense. Defensive coordinator Joe Rossi has done a commendable job scheming pressure, but the Spartans’ defensive line will need to have its best game yet to slow down the Buckeyes. Michigan State’s defensive front has been successful against weaker competition, but Ohio State’s offensive line will be a much bigger test.
In addition to pressuring McCord, Michigan State will need to contain Ohio State’s rushing attack. The Buckeyes’ offense has been well-balanced, with Chip Kelly’s run scheme complementing their passing game. If Michigan State focuses too much on stopping the pass, Ohio State’s running backs could break off big gains.
What Michigan State Needs to Do
For Michigan State to have a shot at upsetting Ohio State, several things need to happen:
- Limit Turnovers: Chiles needs to be careful with the ball. Ohio State’s defense is opportunistic and will take advantage of any mistakes.
- Control the Clock: The Spartans’ rushing attack will need to chew up the clock, keeping Ohio State’s offense off the field and limiting possessions.
- Defense Must Shine: Michigan State’s defense has kept them in games, but this will be their toughest challenge. Limiting Ohio State to under 30 points will be key to keeping the game competitive.
Ohio State’s Offensive Line Improvement
A major storyline for the Buckeyes this year has been their offensive line improvement. In past seasons, the line had been a weak point, but in 2024, the unit has performed much better. McCord has benefited from solid protection, allowing him to distribute the ball effectively to Ohio State’s talented wide receivers.
Michigan State’s defensive line will look to challenge Ohio State’s O-line, but the Buckeyes’ ability to run the ball effectively could keep the Spartans on their heels. If Michigan State can’t generate pressure or stop the run, the game could get out of hand quickly.
Prediction
While Michigan State has shown promise under Jonathan Smith, Ohio State’s talent and experience will likely be too much for the Spartans to handle. Expect Michigan State to keep it close early, especially if they can generate pressure on McCord and control the clock with their running game. However, Ohio State’s depth and firepower should allow them to pull away in the second half.
