Most years, it would be fair to think of Michigan State in an upset role here considering Mark Dantonio's penchant for getting his team up in big games. However, that has not been the case lately for the Spartans, and this line has come down giving me two points in value. Yes, the weather is bad, but this is a Michigan State team that got blown out by Wisconsin, which has since been upset by Illinois and destroyed by Ohio State. Penn State is not going to falter here, and five points is a paltry price to pay for one of the legitimate top teams in the nation -- even on the road in the rain.

The Spartans have dominated this series, winning four of the past five. they just seem to find a way to slow down Penn State, They are still in search of a signature win after getting blown out by Ohio State and Wisconsin. The Lions could be in a bit of a letdown spot following their showcase win over Michigan. We're taking the worst of a number that opened at +6.5, but it likely wont matter as the Spartans should win outright.

I don’t know what it is about Michigan State that some of my respected friends are betting this week. All they can tell me is that it’s a good spot for Sparty. But I’ve been searching for answers and can’t find many. MSU had an extra week to prepare and they’ve beaten Penn State the last two seasons, but everything else leans Penn State. Michigan State has lost its last two games and they also lost to ASU at home. The truth is that Michigan State is just ordinary. Penn State stays undefeated and covers the spread.

The Nittany Lions defense is tremendous, especially with its front seven. I'm a big fan of how it can consistently affect the pocket, making things rough for the quarterback throughout the game. Offensively, Penn State has one of the more dynamic playmakers in college football in KJ Hamler. The Spartans are in the midst of a down year this season, and they won't be able to keep up the pace against Penn State.

The world got a glimpse of the Sean Clifford-to-K.J. Hamler connection last week, and running back Noah Cain has provided much-needed balance to the Penn State offense. Michigan State is known for defense but has given up 28.3 points per game to Big Ten opponents. This game will get sideways in the second half and James Franklin's crew will easily cover.