The rivalry between Michigan and Michigan State is one of the most storied rivalries in college sports. Every year, the two teams battle it out in a game that can decide the Big Ten Championship. With the Big Ten Championship on the line, the question of who is the favorite in this rivalry is always up for debate.
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History of the Rivalry
The Michigan-Michigan State rivalry dates back to 1898, when the two teams first met on the football field. Since then, the rivalry has grown to become one of the most heated rivalries in college sports. Every year, the two teams battle it out in a highly-anticipated game that often decides the Big Ten Championship.
The History of the Match-Up
Since the first meeting in 1898, Michigan and Michigan State have played a total of 107 games. Michigan holds the overall advantage with a record of 68-34-5. However, the rivalry has been much more even in recent years. Since 2000, the two teams have split the series with Michigan holding a slight edge of 12-10.
Who Has the Edge in the Match-Up?
When it comes to the Michigan-Michigan State rivalry, the edge is usually in favor of the team that has the home field advantage. Michigan has the edge when it comes to home field advantage as they have won the last eight meetings at Michigan Stadium. Michigan State has the edge when the game is played at Spartan Stadium as they have won seven of the last nine meetings there.
Who Has the Better Offensive Unit?
When it comes to the offensive side of the ball, Michigan has the edge. The Wolverines have one of the most potent offenses in the nation, led by Heisman Trophy-hopeful quarterback Shea Patterson. The Wolverines offense is averaging over 500 yards and over 40 points per game this season.
Michigan State has an explosive offense as well, but they have been inconsistent at times. The Spartans have the weapons to put up big numbers, but they have struggled to find consistency on the offensive side of the ball. Michigan State is averaging just under 400 yards and 33 points per game this season.
Who Has the Better Defensive Unit?
When it comes to the defensive side of the ball, Michigan State has the edge. The Spartans have one of the top defenses in the country, led by linebacker Joe Bachie. The Spartans defense is allowing just over 300 yards and 19 points per game this season.
Michigan has a solid defense as well, but they have had their struggles this season. The Wolverines are allowing just over 350 yards and 27 points per game this season.
The Verdict: Who is the Favorite in Michigan vs Michigan State?
When it comes to the Michigan-Michigan State rivalry, the edge is usually in favor of the team that has the home field advantage. With that being said, Michigan has the edge in this match-up as they have won the last eight meetings at Michigan Stadium. If the game is played at Spartan Stadium, Michigan State has the edge as they have won seven of the last nine meetings there.
When it comes to the offensive and defensive units, Michigan has the edge on offense and Michigan State has the edge on defense. With that being said, Michigan is the favorite in this rivalry as they have the home field advantage and a more potent offense.