Week 1 of the 2024 college football season brings a Big Ten Network showdown as the FAU Owls travel to East Lansing to take on the Michigan State Spartans. This game, set for Friday night, promises to be an exciting clash between two teams in transition. Michigan State, under new head coach Jonathan Smith, looks to start their season strong, while FAU, led by second-year head coach Tom Herman, aims to showcase their improvements.

How to Watch

• Date: Friday, August 30th
• Time: 7:00 PM Eastern Time
• TV Channel: Big Ten Network

Betting Odds

• Spread: Michigan State -12
• Total: 47
• Moneyline: Michigan State -470, FAU +370

Understanding Betting Terms

Betting Spread: This is the number of points by which a team is favored to win. For this game, Michigan State is favored by 12 points, meaning they need to win by more than 12 points for a bet on them to pay out.

Betting Total: Also known as the over/under, this is the total number of points expected to be scored by both teams combined. For this game, the total is set at 47 points.

Moneyline: This is a bet on which team will win the game outright. The odds indicate how much you need to bet to win a certain amount. For Michigan State, a bet of $470 is needed to win $100, while a $100 bet on FAU would yield $370 if they win.

Game Analysis

Michigan State Spartans

The Michigan State Spartans enter the season with renewed optimism under head coach Jonathan Smith. After a tumultuous end to the Mel Tucker era, Smith is tasked with rebuilding the program and instilling a winning culture.

Offense: Michigan State’s offense will be led by quarterback Aidan Chiles, who brings a fresh dynamic to the team. The offensive line, a point of concern last season, needs to improve significantly to provide protection and establish the run game. Offensive coordinator Brian Lindgren, known for his innovative play-calling, will be instrumental in maximizing the offense’s potential.

Defense: The Spartans’ defense, coordinated by Trent Bray, aims to be a strong unit. The defensive line, although lacking Big Ten level talent in some areas, will be key in pressuring FAU’s quarterback and stopping the run. Michigan State’s defense must capitalize on their experience and depth to contain FAU’s offense.

FAU Owls

The FAU Owls, under head coach Tom Herman, are looking to improve upon last season’s performance. With several key returning players and new additions, FAU aims to be competitive in this matchup.

Offense: FAU’s offense will be led by quarterback Casey Thompson, who transferred from Nebraska. Thompson’s experience and playmaking ability are crucial for the Owls. However, the offensive line, which struggled last season, needs to provide better protection. FAU’s running game and receiving corps will need to step up to support Thompson.

Defense: FAU’s defense, a strength last season, returns several key players. The secondary, led by standout safety Ahman Ross, will be crucial in defending against Michigan State’s passing attack. The defensive line, despite being undersized, needs to hold its ground and apply pressure.

Key Matchups

Line of Scrimmage: The battle at the line of scrimmage will be critical. Michigan State’s offensive line must protect Chiles and establish the run, while FAU’s defensive front needs to pressure the quarterback and contain the Spartans’ rushing attack.

Quarterback Play: Both teams rely heavily on their quarterbacks. Chiles’ development and Thompson’s playmaking ability will be pivotal. Mistakes and big plays could swing the game in either team’s favor.

Defensive Performance: Michigan State’s defense against FAU’s evolving offense could be a key factor. If the Spartans can stifle Thompson and force turnovers, they have a strong chance of covering the spread.

Trends and Insights

• Michigan State: The Spartans are 6-2 against the spread in their last eight games as a double-digit favorite. They covered both games as a double-digit favorite last season, showcasing their ability to dominate when expected.
• FAU: The Owls have covered double-digit spreads in tough road games, such as at Illinois last year and at Purdue the year before. They are 4-2 against the spread in their last six games as a double-digit underdog.

Prediction

Given the strengths and weaknesses of both teams, this game is expected to showcase Michigan State’s potential under Jonathan Smith. The Spartans’ balanced attack and strong defense give them an edge, but FAU’s playmaking ability and improved roster cannot be overlooked.

AI Predicted Score: Michigan State 28, FAU 17

Conclusion

The Week 1 showdown between FAU and Michigan State promises to be an exciting and competitive game. Fans should tune in to witness a clash of coaching philosophies and talent as both teams look to solidify their early-season form.

Reminders

• Subscribe to the Winning Cures Everything podcast: winningcureseverything.com/listen
• Subscribe to the Winning Cures Everything YouTube page: youtube.com/@WinningCuresEverything
• Subscribe to the BetUS College Football Show on YouTube: youtube.com/@FootballPicksandPredictions
• Become a member for bonus content: BuyMeACoffee.com/WinningCures