Game Info
- Teams: Maryland Terrapins (4-7) at Michigan State Spartans (3-8)
- Date/Time: Friday, November 29, 7:00 p.m. EST
- Location: Ford Field, Detroit, MI
- Spread: Michigan State -3.5
- Total: 48.5
Game Preview
The Big Ten regular season concludes with a special Friday night matchup as the Maryland Terrapins and Michigan State Spartans meet on a neutral field at Ford Field in Detroit. With both teams well out of bowl contention, this game is purely about pride and ending disappointing seasons on a positive note.
The Spartans (3-8) limp into their final game, having endured a difficult year that included a five-game skid earlier in the season. For coach Jonathan Smith’s squad, playing in Detroit offers a chance to salvage a win in front of an in-state crowd and build a small piece of momentum for the offseason.
Maryland (4-7) has had a similarly trying campaign. The Terps have experience playing in professional venues, having played in eight different NFL stadiums since 2014, and will look to use that comfort to play spoiler. With little to play for but a fifth win, the primary question for both programs will be motivation.
Key Factors & Injury Report
Maryland Terrapins:The Terrapins’ struggles are reflected in their 4-7 record. On the injury front, the team enters its final week with some uncertainty on the defensive line, as DL D. Owens is listed as questionable. Otherwise, Maryland appears to be heading into the finale relatively healthy compared to its opponent.
Michigan State Spartans:Injuries have been a recurring theme for Michigan State this season. While a complete and current injury list is not available, reports from October and November indicated that the Spartans have been without key defensive players like DB Nikai Martinez and LB Marcellius Pulliam at times. The offense has also been banged up throughout the year. While these players’ current status for Friday is unconfirmed, depth has been a clear issue for MSU and a major contributor to their 3-8 record.
Prediction
This matchup features two teams at the bottom of the Big Ten standings who are eager to turn the page to next season. The betting line, with Michigan State favored by just 3.5 points, reflects how evenly matched these struggling programs are. The game’s location is a significant factor; while not a true home game at Spartan Stadium, playing in Detroit gives Michigan State a geographical advantage and a chance to perform for its local fanbase one last time.
Maryland has a history of playing in NFL stadiums, but its motivation for a road trip with nothing on the line is questionable. Expect a sloppy, hard-fought game where points are at a premium. The Spartans’ desire to avoid a ninth loss and give their home-state fans a victory should provide the slight emotional edge needed to secure a win and cover the small spread. Given both teams’ offensive inconsistencies, the total of 48.5 seems a bit high.
The Pick: Michigan State -3.5
The Total: Under 48.5
Predicted Score: Michigan State 23, Maryland 17
Sources:
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