Ohio State vs. Michigan State Betting Preview September 28

No. 3 ranked Ohio State comes into Michigan State as a -23.5 road favorite.

The Spartans lost a close one to Boston College last week but are 3-1 thus far.

Ohio State is not taking the Spartans lightly despite their significant favorite status on the road.

“Man, I’m excited,” said Ohio State starting quarterback Will Howard, who transferred to Ohio State earlier this year after four seasons at Kansas State. “It’s going to be a night game. It’s going to be fun. It’s going to be popping. I’m looking forward to it. I think it’s a cool opportunity. The nonconference games were fun, but we know it gets real.”

Howard expects the Buckeyes (3-0) to face their sternest test of the season against the Spartans (3-1, 1-0 Big Ten) after scoring an average of 52.3 points in victories over Akron, Western Michigan and Marshall.

“We got some things to try and get them confused, get them out of gaps,” Howard said. “And I got all my faith in the O-line. And I think they’re up for the challenge. I know it’ll be probably the best (defensive) front that we’ve seen so far. But we go against the best front in the country every single day, and that helps our offensive line, and it helps all of us to just be ready for anything.”

WHAT’S AT STAKE

No. 3 Ohio State kicks off its Big Ten season with a prime-time game at Michigan State. The Buckeyes look to keep their momentum going after dominating nonconference foes Akron, Western Michigan and Marshall. Ohio State outscored the three 157-20 and did not allow any points in the second half. The Spartans are hoping to rebound from a 23-19 loss at Boston College. Michigan State gave up a 42-yard game-winning touchdown pass with 88 seconds left. The Buckeyes have won eight straight games against the Spartans since Michigan State upset No. 2 Ohio State in 2015.

KEY MATCHUP

Buckeyes rushing defense vs. Michigan State running game. Ohio State’s rush defense is ranked seventh nationally, giving up only 66.7 yards per game and allowing only one rushing touchdown. Injuries to the offensive line have hampered the Spartans from developing a potent rushing attack, averaging only 153.8 yards per game. Michigan State’s success in the running game will help keep the ball away from the Buckeyes’ explosive offense that puts up 52.3 points per game.