The Spartans rank 107th out of 130 FBS teams in scoring (22.0 points per game), but their defense performed at an above-average level all season long and ranks T-36th (22.7 points allowed per contest). However, Michigan State has one of the top rushing defenses in the NCAA. Despite facing Jonathan Taylor and J.K. Dobbins, the Spartans rank 15th against the run (108.6 yards allowed per game). Since Wake Forest is a run-heavy offense (105 more running plays than passing plays called) and average 3.9 yards per carry as a team, it could be tough sledding against a stout MSU front seven. Offensively, the Spartans will rely on senior quarterback Brian Lewerke (2,759 passing yards, 19 total touchdowns - 16 passing, 12 interceptions), freshman running back Elijah Collins (892 rushing yards, 4.4 YPC, five TD) and junior wideout Cody White (58 receptions, 825 yards, five touchdowns).
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The Demon Deacons rank 39th in scoring (32.8 points per game), but their defense ranks 79th (29.3 points allowed per contest). Their offense runs through junior dual-threat quarterback Jamie Newman, who amassed 2,693 passing yards, 556 rushing yards, 29 total touchdowns and 10 interceptions this year. Newman’s ability to make an impact in the air and on the ground might create some issues for Michigan State’s defense. Newman ran the ball a team-high 163 times this season and also led the team in rushing touchdowns (six). Sophomore Sage Surratt (66 catches, 1,001 receiving yards, 11 touchdowns) is one of the best receivers in the country while senior wideout Kendall Hinton (70 receptions, 953 yards, three touchdowns) has also been a reliable target, as has wideout Scottie Washington, who has seven touchdown catches on 35 total receptions (with 607 yards). Wake Forest has the clear advantage offensively, but Michigan State has the clear advantage defensively. It will be fascinating to see how this one plays out.
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As seen in our Michigan State/Wake Forest Pinstripe Bowl preview, it’s tough to identify a clear advantage for either team. The Spartans went 1-5 SU against teams with winning records this season, but have gone 5-2 in their last seven bowl games. Which Michigan State team will show up in the Bronx?
In addition to our Michigan State/Wake Forest Pinstripe Bowl prediction, you can see more trends, updated odds, injuries and more on our game page.