GAME BREAKDOWN
KEY MATCHUP: It’s been an inconsistent season for Maryland on the offensive side of the ball but the Terrapins have been good running the ball, averaging 246.3 yards a game, good for second in the Big Ten and 11th in the nation. They’ll try to continue that sort of production against Michigan State, the No. 1 run defense in the country. The Spartans had a couple tough weeks against Penn State and Michigan but rebounded to allow just 62 rushing yards against Purdue. They are now allowing 77.4 yards a game on the ground and in last season’s meeting, held the Terps to 83 yards rushing.
DRAFT SLANT
-CB Justin Layne, at 6-foot-3, has always had the prototypical size to be a cornerback at the next level, but this season he has backed it up with solid playing, breaking up three passes last week against Penn State to give him eight for the year along with an interception. Add in his work on offense as a receiver the last two weeks and he could be quickly moving up some draft boards, much like former Spartan Tony Lippett did in 2014.
ROSTER REPORT
–QB Brian Lewerke did not play last week because of a shoulder injury and is questionable against Maryland.
–CB Josiah Scott returned last week and served his suspension from a targeting call in last season’s Holiday Bowl. The sophomore hasn’t played since injuring his knee in preseason camp but is expected to play vs. Maryland.
–C Matt Allen (foot) will miss his second straight game.
–WR Cody White has missed the last four games with a broken hand but is expected to play at Maryland.
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