Michigan State Can’t Afford Another Loss

Michigan State has two more games it must win both to make a bowl game.
Nov 16, 2024; Champaign, Illinois, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini linebacker James Kreutz (41) tackles Michigan State Spartans running back Nate Carter (5) during the second half at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ron Johnson-Imagn Images
Nov 16, 2024; Champaign, Illinois, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini linebacker James Kreutz (41) tackles Michigan State Spartans running back Nate Carter (5) during the second half at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ron Johnson-Imagn Images / Ron Johnson-Imagn Images

Michigan State football enters a crucial stretch of their season with two upcoming games that, on paper, should be winnable.

First, the Spartans face Purdue, a team they should beat, followed by Rutgers, a fair opponent that has already secured bowl eligibility. For Michigan State, the key to securing victories in these contests lies not only in talent and preparation but in maintaining the right mindset — avoiding the pitfall of overconfidence and treating each game with the respect it deserves.

The Purdue game presents an opportunity for the Spartans to build momentum. Though unranked, Purdue has had a rough year, and they will not be a pushover. The Boilermakers have a solid defense and can stifle offenses when they play disciplined football. Michigan State cannot afford to underestimate them or assume the game will be easy.

A cocky attitude could lead to costly mistakes, turnovers, or a lack of intensity, which could open the door for Purdue to pull off an upset. Instead, Michigan State must come in with a focus on executing its game plan, maintaining balance, and handling its business with a professional approach.

Similarly, the matchup against Rutgers, while also against an unranked opponent, is no guaranteed win. The Scarlet Knights have been inconsistent this season but are more than capable of pulling off a surprise, especially if Michigan State takes them lightly. Rutgers has a high-powered offense that can exploit weaknesses in the passing game, and with the right game script, they can easily make a game competitive.

Michigan State's defense will need to stay disciplined and avoid giving up big plays, especially in crucial situations.

For Michigan State, the overarching goal in these two games is to enter with the right mental attitude: confident but not complacent. They have talent on both sides of the ball, and their coaching staff has the experience to guide them through these contests. However, the Spartans must avoid the temptation to look past these teams or assume victory is automatic.

The team needs to stay grounded, focusing on fundamentals and execution, and taking each game as it comes. With a consistent, focused approach, Michigan State can navigate these matchups successfully, but only if they approach them with the respect and intensity they demand.

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