Ohio State – Michigan State Preview | Big Matchup in the Big Ten

Jim Tressel and Mark Dantonio both admitted outright this week that they don’t look forward to playing each other this weekend in East Lansing. The two worked together most recently in 2002 for OSU’s championship run but had been together for years before that. It’s not bad blood, it’s just close, too close for anyone to be comfortable. While impartial fans look forward to the game, the reality is this week could be a watershed for either team. Both squads sit at 6-1. The Spartans could continue to prove that the coaching change is the best news around, and leading an improved running game and defense will put Michigan State in the mix for a New Year’s Day bid. Trouble is, they haven’t had any big wins, the Northwestern win was solid, but any Big Ten contender should win that game. Their stock will continue to rise if they can beat the Bucks at home. The Ohio State University, however, is coming off a very shaky win against Purdue, and Buckeyes fans seem like they are waiting for this team to fall, but would rather see it happen against Penn State.

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Big Ten’s Big Matchup: Michigan State at Northwestern

There’s a big one happening north of the Windy City this weekend when the Spartans make the trek to Evanston to match up with the unbeaten Northwestern Wildcats. I’ve been patrolling the message boards, blogs etc. the tension is high. Big-Ten fans seem split, MSU fans contest, “Don’t be fooled, this isn’t a game” with an air of confidence that seems to say, “I’m a little nervous but I got a chip on my shoulder to hold off the cats”. Outsiders see it differently, people want to see David slay Goliath (MSU isn’t really Goliath this year but they are the toughest opponent the Cats have seen to this point) claiming that NW will slow down the Spartans and have an upset on their hands.

Being the ACC man that I am, I ensure that I will maintain a fair and balanced approach to the game (because I don’t believe in the Big-Ten that much. We will discuss that come bowl season.)

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