GAME BREAKDOWN
KEY MATCHUP: Michigan State has been the best defense against the run all season, allowing just 76.5 yards a game as only three teams have run for 100 or more yards in a game. That defense will face another challenge this week as Nebraska enters the game averaging 226.5 yards a game, which is fourth-best in the Big Ten and 22nd in the nation. The Spartans have been effective at shutting down potent offenses, holding both Ohio State and Penn State 200 yards below their season average and limiting a Maryland team that was averaging better than 235 yards a game on the ground to 74. It will be another challenge to do the same this week, but if the Spartans do so again, they’ll be in position to win No. 7.
DRAFT SLANT
–Junior cornerback Justin Layne has been having his best season with 12 pass breakups, which leads the team and ranks third in the Big Ten. In the loss to Ohio State, Layne was outstanding, breaking up four passes and matching his career-high with 10 tackles. He’s been adding a handful of snaps each game as a receiver, making him even more appealing to NFL teams if he chooses to come out of school a year early.
ROSTER REPORT
–Senior running back LJ Scott has missed six games this season with an ankle injury and has decided to redshirt and return for a fifth season.
–Sophomore center Matt Allen (foot) missed his third game last week and is questionable to play at Nebraska.
–Fifth-year senior guard David Beedle (arm) dressed last week for the first time in four games but did not play.
========
