The Rivalry
The rivalry between Michigan State University (MSU) and Indiana University (IU) is one of the most heated and storied in the Big Ten Conference. The two schools have met on the gridiron 76 times since 1897, with MSU holding a narrow 39-33-4 advantage. The rivalry has been particularly intense in recent years, with the teams playing for the Old Brass Spittoon trophy since 1950.
The Matchup
The 2023 matchup between MSU and IU is shaping up to be another classic. Both teams enter the game with 6-2 records, and a win would give either team a major boost in the Big Ten East standings.
MSU is led by quarterback Payton Thorne, who has thrown for over 1,500 yards and 15 touchdowns this season. The Spartans also have a strong running game, led by Jalen Berger and Elijah Collins.
IU is led by quarterback Connor Bazelak, who has thrown for over 1,800 yards and 12 touchdowns this season. The Hoosiers also have a talented wide receiver corps, led by D.J. Matthews and Emery Simmons.
The Keys to Victory
There are several key factors that will likely determine the outcome of the game.
- Quarterback play: Both Thorne and Bazelak are talented quarterbacks, but the one who makes fewer mistakes and takes better care of the football will likely give his team the edge.
- Running game: MSU has a slight edge in the running game, but IU has shown that it can be effective on the ground as well. Whichever team is able to establish the run will have a major advantage.
- Defense: Both MSU and IU have strong defenses, but the Spartans have been particularly impressive in recent weeks. If MSU can force Bazelak into mistakes and limit IU’s running game, it will be in a good position to win.
- Special teams: Special teams can often be the difference in close games, and both MSU and IU have solid special teams units. The team that is able to make big plays in the kicking game could have a major impact on the outcome.
The Prediction
The 2023 matchup between MSU and IU is a toss-up. Both teams are evenly matched, and the game could go either way. However, MSU has a slight edge in experience and home-field advantage. If the Spartans can make the plays in the key moments, they should be able to pull out a narrow victory.
MSU vs. Indiana: A Statistical Comparison
| Category | MSU | IU |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 6-2 | 6-2 |
| Points per game | 32.6 | 29.8 |
| Yards per game | 421.6 | 398.3 |
| Passing yards per game | 264.3 | 270.9 |
| Rushing yards per game | 157.3 | 127.4 |
| Points allowed per game | 20.3 | 21.9 |
| Yards allowed per game | 356.3 | 370.2 |
| Passing yards allowed per game | 234.1 | 248.9 |
| Rushing yards allowed per game | 122.2 | 121.3 |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
There are several common mistakes that bettors make when betting on MSU vs. Indiana games. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Don’t overreact to injuries: Injuries can certainly have a major impact on a game, but bettors should not overreact to them. Even if a key player is injured, the other team may still be able to win.
- Don’t bet on the underdog just because they are the underdog: The underdog does not always win, and in fact, the favorite usually wins in MSU vs. Indiana games. Bettors should only bet on the underdog if they have a good reason to believe that they can win.
- Don’t bet on the over/under just because it is a high number: The over/under is often set high in MSU vs. Indiana games, but that does not mean that the game will be high-scoring. Bettors should only bet on the over/under if they believe that the game will be high-scoring.
Conclusion
The 2023 matchup between MSU and IU is shaping up to be another classic. Both teams are evenly matched, and the game could go either way. Bettors should be careful not to make any of the common mistakes listed above, and they should only bet on the game if they have a good reason to do so.