Aug 292 min read

Michigan State Confident Ahead of First Game Against FAU

Derrick Harmon and Aidan Chiles — © Nick King/Lansing State Journal/USA TODAY NETWORK

Football season is back in East Lansing, Mich. On Aug. 30, the Michigan State Spartans host the FAU Owls at 7 p.m. EST at Spartan Stadium. This is the Michigan State “stripe out the stadium” game, an annual tradition that has been the theme for some big wins. In 2015, Michigan State hosted the Oregon Ducks in a top-10 game, and the Spartans prevailed 31-28.

Michigan State quarterback Aidan Chiles added a little fuel to the fire when he told bettors to “take the over” on the upcoming game. As of Aug. 27, the over/under sits at 44.5 points. The Spartans are 3-0 historically against FAU. Their last meeting was in 2011 as the then-No. 17 Spartans won 44-0. Quarterback Kirk Cousins threw for 183 yards, 2 touchdowns and no interceptions. Running back, Le’Veon Bell rushed for 69 yards and scored a touchdown. The 44-0 win marked the highest margin of victory in the history of the two teams playing.

Kirk Cousins and Le'Veon Bell — © Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

A fast start could be vital for Michigan State. While this isn’t a “high profile” game against a Power Four opponent, FAU is expected to be decent in the American Athletic Conference after being ranked sixth in the preseason media poll. A win to open the year would mean the first in the tenure of head coach Jonathan Smith.

Big Year for Foster

Montorie Foster Jr. was the leading receiver last year with 43 catches, 576 yards and 3 touchdowns. FAU ranked 103rd against the pass last season and aside from senior, cornerback Daedae Hill, there are no returning starters in the secondary.

Expect Foster to see passes early or draw enough attention to free up his fellow receivers.

Next Big Thing?

Linebacker Jordan Hall was regarded as a highly touted recruit for the Spartans. So it was no surprise that out of all the playing time that the freshman received last year Hall was the one that made the most of his opportunities. Hall finished with 67 total tackles and 4.5 sacks and forced a fumble. Look for Hall to start the season off strong.

Spartans Biggest Threat

Quarterback Cam Fancher is going up against one of the worst passing defenses last season of the then Power Five conferences. The Spartans ranked 86th in passing defense and while Fancher’s numbers last season don’t pop out at you, he could make this game tough on the Spartans defense with his ability to be a threat in the passing game and the run game.

Potential Freshman All-American

Safety CJ Heard was named a Preseason True Freshman All-American this year. While his playing time could be limited, he should be one to watch out for the Owls this upcoming season.