When the #3 Michigan Wolverines (5-2, 3-1) and the #14 Michigan State Spartans (3-4, 0-4) meet on Saturday, the matchup won’t just be about pride; it’ll come down to who executes cleaner, hits harder, and stays true to their identity. Here’s how both sides stack up by position.
Quarterbacks: Bryce Underwood (Wolverines) vs. Aidan Chiles (Spartans)
Michigan freshman Bryce Underwood has handled the spotlight like a seasoned veteran. Through seven games, he’s thrown for 1,440 yards, completing 113 of 181 passes with 7 touchdowns and 2 interceptions. His decision-making has continued to improve each week, especially against Big Ten defenses that love to disguise pressure.
On the other sideline, Aidan Chiles has been quietly productive for the Spartans, throwing for 1,262 yards and 10 touchdowns on 114 completions. He’s shown good chemistry with his receivers and has a slightly higher touchdown count, but also one more interception.
Edge: Michigan– Underwood’s efficiency and control give the Wolverines a slight edge here, especially behind a more reliable offensive line.
Running Backs: Justice Haynes (Wolverines) vs. Makhi Frazier (Spartans)
This is where Michigan’s identity really shines. Justice Haynes has been dominant, rushing for 705 yards and 8 touchdowns on 95 carries, good for over seven yards per carry. He’s been the heartbeat of the Wolverine offense, consistently breaking tackles and wearing down defenses.
For the Spartans, Makhi Frazier has been solid but less explosive. With 384 yards and 2 touchdowns on 94 carries, he’s a physical runner who can move the chains but hasn’t found the end zone nearly as often.
Edge: Michigan– Haynes has been one of the most consistent backs in the conference, and his red-zone production sets him apart.
Wide Receivers: Donaven McCulley (Wolverines) vs. Omari Kelly (Spartans)
This matchup is tighter than you might think. Donaven McCulley has emerged as a go-to target for Underwood, tallying 24 receptions for 369 yards and 2 touchdowns. He’s physical, reliable on third downs, and finding his stride after a strong performance against top competition.
Meanwhile, Omari Kelly leads Michigan State in receiving with 27 catches for 406 yards and a touchdown. He’s a deep-threat option who’s helped stretch defenses and create space underneath.
Edge: Even– McCulley’s consistency vs. Kelly’s big-play ability balances this matchup perfectly. It may come down to which quarterback gets more time to throw.
Defensive Front: Derrick Moore (Wolverines) vs. Malik Spencer (Spartans)
Michigan’s defensive front remains its backbone. Derrick Moore has been a problem for opposing quarterbacks, posting 4.5 sacks while anchoring the edge with power and discipline. His presence often forces hurried throws and stalled drives.
Michigan State’s Malik Spencer isn’t an edge rusher by trade, he’s a defensive back, but he’s contributed 2 sacks and shown a knack for blitz timing. Still, the Spartans’ pass rush hasn’t been as consistent in collapsing the pocket.
Edge: Michigan– Moore’s production speaks for itself. Michigan’s ability to pressure without blitzing gives them a major advantage.
Linebackers: Ernest Hausmann (Wolverines) vs. Jordan Hall (Spartans)
Two tackling machines highlight this matchup. For Michigan, Ernest Hausmann leads the defense with 47 total tackles (28 solo), consistently plugging run gaps and shadowing backs in coverage. His experience and closing speed make him one of the most important players on the field.
The Spartans counters with Jordan Hall, who’s been a bright spot amid ups and downs for the Spartan defense. Hall has 51 tackles (26 solo) and plays with impressive instincts and aggression.
Edge: Even– Hausmann is more polished in coverage, while Hall is the more physical downhill hitter. Expect both to be heavily involved on Saturday.
Verdict
The Wolverines come into this one with more balance and proven playmakers, while the Spartans will need to lean on Chiles’ arm and Hall’s leadership to stay in it. Michigan’s combination of poise at quarterback, a dominant ground game, and a disruptive front seven gives them the edge, but rivalry games rarely follow the script.
If history tells us anything, expect emotion, intensity, and one or two plays that fans will be talking about all year long.
Prediction: Michigan Wolverines 31, Michigan State Spartans 20
