I am not sure why but I actually feel sorry for Boise State coming into this season. Odds are this is their worst team in a while; the Mountain West Conference isn\u2019t what it used to be so not much to play for there; and the University was acting like it \u00a0was getting cold feet about moving to the Big East next season. <\/p>\n
Boise State Broncos vs Michigan State Spartans TV:<\/strong>\u00a0ESPN<\/p>\n Matchup<\/a>\u00a0|\u00a0Preview<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n I don\u2019t think we will be seeing a team like we are used to on the Smurf Turf – where they are near impossible to beat.<\/p>\n The key for Boise this season will definitely be play at QB. \u00a0After a \u201cdecade\u201d of Kellen Moore they are breaking in a new signal caller. \u00a0If likely starter Joe Southwick performs than this team should be able to cruise through the MWC but the question is whether he and the rest of the squad \u00a0can compete in a non conference brawl like they should expect in East Lansing.<\/p>\n If they can run the ball with returning back D.J. Harper then they shouldn\u2019t embarrass themselves.<\/p>\n You have to love that Boise put this one on the schedule knowing this might be a leaner time for the program. \u00a0Any year in the past 4 -6 years they might have been the favourite (even on the road) but now they are the definite underdog.<\/p>\n With the number sitting at less than a TD I am not sure there is great value with the Broncos…but they certainly won\u2019t be intimidated or quit. [soliloquy id=”82219″]<\/p>\n The Spartans are the least sexy pick to win the Big 10 this season but they just might be the best. \u00a0They are looking to replace a lot of their offense but their defense should be among the nation\u2019s best again and if they stomp on the Broncos in the opener they might be some great national buzz as Boise\u2019s brand is probably stronger than the team is right now.<\/p>\n MSU will look to pound on Boise State with an offensive line featuring 4 returning starters and a punishing running back in Le\u2019Veon Bell. \u00a0The passing game might take some time to gel but as long as it is not futile than the Spartans should be in good shape this week and throughout the season.<\/p>\n Coach Dantonio has been recruiting like mad and this is the year it should show as they flex their depth in key areas all across the field.<\/p>\n I really like Michigan State at the current number. \u00a0This game seems to be overlooked on the first week on action so it is probably not going to move much, certainly not drastically, unless there is suspension or injury news as game day approached. \u00a0As long as it stay below 7 all the value is on the MSU side.<\/p>\n Not the best value of the opening week but a very solid play if you want to start your season before Saturday.<\/p>\n
\nFriday August 31
\nSpartan Stadium – East Lansing, MI
\n8:00PM
\nMoneyline: \u00a0Michigan State -280, Boise State +240
\nSpread: \u00a0Michigan State -6.5
\nO\/U: 45.5<\/strong><\/p>\nBoise State<\/h3>\n
Michigan State<\/h3>\n