Maryland @ Michigan State preview

Last Meeting ( Nov 3, 2018 ) Michigan State 24, Maryland 3

Michigan State looks for a second straight win and to become bowl-eligible when it hosts Maryland on Saturday in the regular-season finale for both teams. The Spartans snapped a five-game losing streak with a 27-0 victory at Rutgers last weekend, while the Terrapins come into this one on a six-game skid, including last week's 54-7 setback against Nebraska.

The Terrapins have been terrible defensively this season, allowing 36.1 points a game, which includes a total of 27 points allowed in their three victories. Offensively, Maryland has struggled after putting up a total of 142 points in its first two contests, averaging just 16.1 points since, with the rotation at quarterback not yielding dividends. Michigan State has had its struggles with consistency on offense behind senior quarterback Brian Lewerke, who has 2,417 yards and 16 touchdowns passing. The Spartans rank 12th in the nation in rushing defense, allowing 103.5 yards per game, but they allow 23.3 points per game.

TV: 3:30 p.m. ET, Fox Sports 1. LINE: Michigan State -22.5

ABOUT MARYLAND (3-8, 1-7 Big Ten): Quarterback is obviously one of the most important positions for a football team, and for Maryland, it's been a trouble spot all season long. The latest trouble came last week when true freshman Lance LeGendre was inserted into the game against Nebraska and rushed for 35 yards but suffered a separated shoulder and is lost for the season. Junior Josh Jackson continues to be the starter this week, but the Terrapins are still searching for answers at the position.

ABOUT MICHIGAN STATE (5-6, 3-5): It's a difficult position to be in for coach Mark Dantonio, as he tries to balance playing for a bowl game and building for the future, which he may or may not be a part of. Lewerke will remain the starter at quarterback for this one, but at what point does Dantonio give Lewerke's backups -- and his options at the position next season -- the chance to play? In this game, it could end up being a blowout, making Dantonio's decision easier, but in a bowl game with nothing on the line, Dantonio will have to decide between loyalty to his seniors and building for the future.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Maryland RB Javon Leake is averaging 7.78 yards per carry, the second-highest average among Power 5 Conference backs with over 60 carries this season.

2. Michigan State WR Cody White had a career-high 11 catches for 136 yards and a career-high-tying three touchdowns in the win over Rutgers.

3. Spartans DT Raequan Williams is set to start his 41st consecutive game on Saturday, which would tie for the most starts in a row under Dantonio.

PREDICTION: Michigan State 42, Maryland 14