Game Preview: Michigan State versus Youngstown State
The Spartans take on FCS Youngstown State on Saturday. Take a look inside the matchup and what to expect.
The Michigan State Spartans continue their undefeated start this Saturday at Spartan Stadium. Coming off a dramatic double-overtime finish versus Boston College, the Spartans must switch their focus to Youngstown State from the FCS as they aim to start the season 3-0.
Will this be a letdown game for the Spartans? Or will they demonstrate their strengths early and run away with it? We won’t know that answer until Saturday evening, but this preview will provide a better view of what to expect.
Game Info
Time: Saturday, Sep. 13, 3:30 p.m. ET
TV Channel: BTN
Radio: Spartan Media Network
Location: Spartan Stadium (East Lansing, MI)
Weather: Temperatures look to be in the high 70s around kickoff with cloudy conditions. No rain is in the forecast and wind is expected to be minimal.
Youngstown State Notables
The Penguins are off to a 2-0 start with victories of Mercyhurst and Robert Morris. They are led by junior quarterback Beau Brungard who has been on an absolute tear to start the season. While his passing games are modest (236 yards, 1 touchdown, 70% completion rate), his rushing numbers are gaudy. He has rushed 38 times for 409 yards and six touchdowns.
His dynamic playmaking ability will be something to watch out for to see how the Spartans attempt to limit his damage on the ground. The rest of their rushing attack is not utilized nearly as much. Sophomore Jaden Gilbert will get the bulk of the carries at running back. Gilbert is averaging just shy of 6.0 yards per play on only 14 attempts over two games.
While the Penguins have not been airing it out much, senior wide receiver Max Tomczak leads their receiving core. Tomczak leads the Penguins with seven receptions, 112 yards, and one touchdown. If the Tomczak name sounds familiar, it is because Max's uncle, Mike Tomczak, is a 14-year NFL veteran who played quarterback for the Chicago Bears, Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers and Green Bay Packers from 1985 to 1999. The elder Tomczak serves in a volunteer capacity for the Penguins and is listed as Advisor to Head Coach Doug Phillips.
