The Michigan State Spartans and the Wisconsin Badgers are two of the most storied programs in college football. The rivalry between the two schools dates back to 1898, and it has been one of the most heated and closely contested in the Big Ten Conference.
In recent years, the rivalry has taken on a new level of intensity, as both teams have been competing for the Big Ten championship. In 2017, the Spartans upset the Badgers in Madison, Wisconsin, to win the Big Ten title. The Badgers returned the favor in 2019, beating the Spartans in East Lansing, Michigan, to win the Big Ten West Division.
Key Matchups
The key matchups in the MSU vs. Wisconsin rivalry are always at the line of scrimmage. Both teams have strong offensive lines, and both teams have talented running backs. The Spartans have a slight edge in passing, but the Badgers have a better defense.
Offensive Line
The Spartans’ offensive line is one of the best in the Big Ten. They are led by All-American center Brian Allen, who is one of the best centers in the country. The Badgers’ offensive line is also very good, but they are not as experienced as the Spartans’ line.
Running Backs
The Spartans have a stable of talented running backs, led by LJ Scott. Scott is a powerful runner who is difficult to bring down. The Badgers have a more balanced running game, with Jonathan Taylor and Garrett Groshek both capable of big plays.
Passing Game
The Spartans have a slight edge in the passing game, led by quarterback Brian Lewerke. Lewerke is a talented passer who has a good arm and good mobility. The Badgers have a more experienced quarterback in Alex Hornibrook, but Hornibrook is not as talented as Lewerke.
Defense
The Badgers have the better defense, led by All-American linebacker Jack Cichy. Cichy is a playmaker who can make big plays all over the field. The Spartans’ defense is also very good, but they are not as talented as the Badgers’ defense.
Key Statistics
The key statistics in the MSU vs. Wisconsin rivalry are the following:
- Rushing yards: The Spartans have averaged 171.6 rushing yards per game against the Badgers over the last five years. The Badgers have averaged 154.2 rushing yards per game against the Spartans over the last five years.
- Passing yards: The Spartans have averaged 234.4 passing yards per game against the Badgers over the last five years. The Badgers have averaged 221.0 passing yards per game against the Spartans over the last five years.
- Points: The Spartans have averaged 27.4 points per game against the Badgers over the last five years. The Badgers have averaged 24.6 points per game against the Spartans over the last five years.
Recent Results
The Spartans have won two of the last three meetings against the Badgers. The Spartans won 30-6 in 2017 and 27-24 in 2019. The Badgers won 35-16 in 2018.
Outlook for 2020
The Spartans and Badgers are both expected to be contenders for the Big Ten championship in 2020. The Spartans have a more experienced team, but the Badgers have a better defense. The game is expected to be close, and it could come down to who makes the fewest mistakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Who is the favorite in the MSU vs. Wisconsin game?
The Spartans are a slight favorite in the MSU vs. Wisconsin game. -
What is the spread for the MSU vs. Wisconsin game?
The spread for the MSU vs. Wisconsin game is 3 points in favor of the Spartans. -
What is the over/under for the MSU vs. Wisconsin game?
The over/under for the MSU vs. Wisconsin game is 55.5 points. -
Where can I watch the MSU vs. Wisconsin game?
The MSU vs. Wisconsin game will be televised on FOX. -
What is the history of the MSU vs. Wisconsin rivalry?
The MSU vs. Wisconsin rivalry dates back to 1898. The Spartans lead the series 24-18-5. -
Who are the key players in the MSU vs. Wisconsin game?
The key players in the MSU vs. Wisconsin game are Brian Lewerke, LJ Scott, Jack Cichy, and Jonathan Taylor. -
What is the prediction for the MSU vs. Wisconsin game?
The Spartans are predicted to win the MSU vs. Wisconsin game by a score of 27-24.
