Big Ten Conference Bowl Games: Prediction roundtable

Holiday Bowl

No. 16 Michigan State vs No. 18 Washington State

December 28, 2017 9:00 p.m. ET

Qualcomm Stadium – San Diego, California

The Michigan State Spartans drew a very interesting matchup in the Holiday Bowl with the Washington State Cougars. It will mark the first Big Ten bowl of the year featuring two ranked teams.

Michigan State finished the regular season with a record of 9-3, with two of the losses coming against ranked opponents Notre Dame and Ohio State. The Spartans didn’t put up fantastic numbers on offense, but quarterback Brian Lewerke and running back L.J. Scott can be dangerous.

Defense is the name of the game with Michigan State, ranking ninth in total defense. However, the Spartans will be heavily tested against the Washington State offense.

Any team coached by Mike Leach presents a tough task for opposing defenses. The Cougars finished 9-3 and pulled off an upset over USC.

Washington State is led by quarterback Luke Falk, who threw for over 3,500 yards. The Cougars finished the regular season ranked second in passing offense with 375 yards a game through the air. However, Falk will be missing his top receiver, Tavares Martin, who was booted from the program for a violation of team rules.

Who will win the battle of a tough defense versus a potent passing attack?

Co-Site Expert Barry Leonard Jr: Michigan State 24  Washington State 31

Co-Site Expert Collin Wieder: Michigan State 23 Washington State 34

Contributor Corey Hunter: Michigan State 23  Washington State 21

Contributor Marty Leap: Michigan State 27  Washington State 24

Contributor Joe Ciminera: Michigan State 17  Washington State 13

Contributor Dylan Burd: Michigan State 28  Washington State 31

Contributor Shane Lunnen: Michigan State 31  Washington State21