GAME BREAKDOWN
KEY MATCHUP: The numbers might be a bit inflated, but Michigan State might have the best run defense in the nation. It will get tested this week as the Hoosiers have run for 705 yards through the first three games with freshman RB Stevie Scott running for 204 yards in a win over Virginia. The Spartans allowed just four teams to run for more than 100 yards last season while finishing second in the nation. If Indiana is able to have success on the ground this week, it could improve to 4-0 and hand Michigan State its second straight loss.
DRAFT SLANT
–QB Brian Lewerke has appeared on some NFL Draft boards next season, something that could become a possibility for the junior. Leaving early might happen if he continues to complete 70 percent of his passes, however, if he continues to not take care of the ball, that could hurt. He’s thrown two interceptions through the first two games and has a lost fumble. Shore up those problems and teams will continue to be interested.
ROSTER REPORT
–P Jake Hartbarger is out 6-8 weeks after suffering a bone bruise on his right kicking leg in the loss to Arizona State.
–CB Josiah Scott, out since camp with an undisclosed injury, has not returned to practice, coach Mark Dantonio said.
–RB LJ Scott and fifth-year senior G David Beedle each left the Arizona State game with injuries but are expected back this week.
–LB Tyriq Thompson made his first start in the opener but was left home on the Arizona State trip after being cited for a misdemeanor noise violation at his home. He is back with the team this week.
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