This is a battle between big brother and little brother. Michigan State experienced injuries, especially on the offensive line, and a lot of talent loss last season, not to mention the incident they had with Michigan. This team has a lot of young players and their focus needs to be on playing cohesively this season, despite losing some of their better players to the portal this season. Their bend don't break defense needs to improve and there are a lot of questions regarding their offense in regards to talent and experience that there first game out may be a shaky affair. Central Michigan will come to play and they will be in this game as traditionally, they always start out well. Despite losing 5 straight games last season, CMU played in a lot of close games that they could take advantage of Michigan State by getting them in this spot at the beginning of the season. They have bolstered their defensive line and have returning production on their offensive line. There QB play should improve this year so CMU has a good chance of covering this game, and/or possibly pulling off an upset. Definitely take the points though.

Michigan State are 3-7 SU in their last 10 games. Michigan State are 6-1 SU in their last 7 games when playing at home against Central Michigan. Michigan State are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games played on a Saturday when playing at home. Central Michigan are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games against Michigan State. Central Michigan are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games played in week 1.

Best bet: take the points with CMU on the spread.