Yardbarker
x
5 Predictions for Michigan at MSU Saturday
Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Key Points:

  • The Wolverines are a solid favorite on the road
  • MSU's running game could spell trouble for Michigan
  • Bryce Underwood's ball security will be paramount

The Michigan Wolverines and Michigan State Spartans are two of the Big Ten's most well known programs and both participants in a rivalry that is known throughout the Midwest and beyond for its intensity.

The Spartans are circling the wagons for what they hope will be a season saving victory on Sunday after four straight losses while the Wolverines are hoping to keep their College Football Playoff hopes alive after a home win over Washington last weekend.

The Wolverines have won three straight in the series and are bringing a team led by freshman sensation Bryce Underwood, who has played beyond his years in Ann Arbor.

Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood (19) walks off the field after 24-7 win over Washington at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. © Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Here are five predictions on Saturday night's game with the Wolverines favored by 13.5 to 14.5 points:

5. Aidan Chiles Will Have One Strong Half-

The Spartans' QB has similar tools to Underwood and has no doubt had Saturday's game circled on his calendar for months.

Chiles shows flashes of brilliance and has a chance to be the player who keeps MSU in contention for a win in this game.

Expect at least one strong half against inconsistent Wolverines defensive coordinator Wink Martindale in East Lansing.

4. MSU Will Rush for 100 Yards or More-

Chiles is a run-pass threat and running back Makhi Frazier is a talented player who could surprise.

The Wolverines have an aggressive defense with defensive tackles who haven't been in Martindale's system very long.

Expect the Spartans to attack the middle of the field with mixed results on Saturday.

3. Jordan Marshall Will Score Two TDs or More-

Michigan's former Mr. Ohio running back is the gritty, chain moving, knuckles-up running back the Wolverines need to reestablish their offensive identity.

Wolverines home run hitter Justice Haynes is a game time decision on Saturday meaning Marshall should get the bulk of the carries.

Expect 80 yards or more and two touchdowns from Marshall.

2. Michigan Will Lose One Fumble or More-

The Spartans have just three interceptions on the year and will be looking to make something happen by punching the ball away from Michigan ballcarriers.

Expect Underwood or perhaps a tight end of a receiver to lose a fumble in a hostile environment on Saturday.

Ball security will be paramount as to who wins Saturday night's game.

1. Bryce Underwood Will Make the Difference in a Michigan Win-

Underwood is a smart player who showed what he can do on the road in Nebraska earlier this year.

Michigan's receiving corps and tight ends are starting to familiarize themselves with the high velocity passes of the Wolverines freshman.

Expect Underwood to account for one or more rushing touchdowns and two or more passing touchdowns in a 30-23 Wolverines win on the road.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads:

Customize Your Newsletter

Yardbarker +

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!