3-2-1 Preview: 3 things we want to see, 2 key stats, 1 best bet for Michigan vs. Michigan State

It really feels like a "last call" for saving any good vibes on this 2025 season for Michigan State, doesn't it?

Head coach Jonathan Smith said earlier this week that this rivalry game against Michigan comes at a good time. A win would galvanize this MSU team. The Spartans can get their goals back in front of them and change the tone around the program.

However...a lot has to happen for that to materialize. Let's get into the 3-2-1 preview for rivalry week.

3 Things We Want To See

Tackling. You know, tackling.

Hate to break the first key down to something so simple, but MSU needs to shore up its tackling issue for this game. Michigan is most dangerous on the ground with two running backs in Justice Haynes and Jordan Marshall. Both of those backs are top-10 in the conference for missed tackles forced, and that’s bad news for a MSU team that comes into this game with the third-most missed tackles in conference. 

Michigan is top-three in the conference in explosive run plays, and that’ll have to change if MSU wants a shot at winning this one. 

Omari Kelly Re-Appearance Game

Doesn’t it feel like we are due for an Omari Kelly game? The wide receiver came onto the scene right off the bat this season with a seven-catch game against Western Michigan, went for more than 100 receiving yards against USC and then has been quiet since. That’s hardly all his fault as the pass offense has collected a long list of issues, but he can and should be important on Saturday night against the Wolverines. 

Fellow wide receiver Nick Marsh will take plenty attention, and Omari Kelly and Chrishon McCray can put MSU in good position on underneath routes should the offense continue last week’s game plan. The Spartans found success early on in quick-hitting passes in the first half against Indiana, and that might be the best way to move the ball here on Saturday night.