We have a very strong momentum angle favoring Michigan State that is 576-412-24 and has produced many Wise Guy winners. Give MSU credit. They did lose at Oregon (a Wise Guy winner for us) but have destroyed the next two squads by a combined 129-25 as well as winning their opener 45-7. That is a true Peter Principle team. They get beaten soundly by a better team, but have thrashed inferior ones.

MSU on defense is fifth in the nation, allowing 71.7 yards rushing per game. The Spartans should get some help this week on the defensive front as junior tackle Damon Knox and fifth-year senior tackle James Kitterdge will practice.

Knox dressed for the first time this season against Wyoming but did not play while Kittredge missed his third game. The Spartans meant business last fall, becoming just the second Big Ten team and the first in 30 years to beat nine conference opponents, all by double digits. Michigan State only game in its last 14 decided by less than 10 points was a 24-20 upset of Stanford in the Rose Bowl.