College Football 2016: 25 bold predictions

6. MSU beats Michigan, wins Big Ten East

After a terrific first year under Jim Harbaugh, many are pegging Michigan to win the Big Ten and perhaps more in 2016. While the Wolverines will be a strong team behind an excellent defense, it’s unwise to write off Michigan State, which still very much has the ability beat its in-state rival for the conference crown.

Mark Dantonio has racked up an impressive 87 wins in nine years with the Spartans while leading the program to new heights and yet still might be the most underrated coach in the nation. Michigan State has won at least 11 games in five of the last six seasons with victories in the Rose Bowl and Cotton Bowl, plus an appearance in last year’s playoff.

The Spartans have a lot to replace this season and open the year ranked No. 12, behind both Ohio State and Michigan. Dantonio has managed to remain consistent no matter the amount of turnover, and there’s still enough talent here for the Spartans to challenge any team in the nation.

Losing starting quarterback Connor Cook certainly hurts, but there’s a lot of hope for senior Tyler O’Connor, who looked capable enough in relief of Cook last year. Sophomore running backs LJ Scott and Madre London were solid last year and should only grow more with experience.

The biggest test will be on the defensive line, as the unit is young and lost a star in Shilique Calhoun. Still, Dantonio’s defenses have always been excellent, and the linebackers and secondary project to be strong in 2016.

Navigating this schedule to get to the playoff is probably too much to manage, as it includes Notre Dame and BYU in non-conference. The Spartans do get the trio of Michigan, Ohio State and Wisconsin at home, which will be enough to tip the Big Ten in their favor.

Next: 5. TCU wins the Big 12