Big Ten: Five biggest takeaways from Week 4

Michigan State dropped to 0-4 against the spread this season

Michigan State is exactly where they wanted to be record-wise after the first month of the season. The Spartans are 4-0 and ranked No. 2 in the country. However, they are 0-4 against the point spread after only beating Central Michigan 30-10 in Week 4. The Spartans closed as a 26-point favorite against the Chippewas. Michigan State also failed to cover the spread against Western Michigan, Oregon and Air Force.

The win against Central Michigan was the least convincing victory for Michigan State. They only led by six points going into the fourth quarter, and the Chippewas outgained the Spartans 340-324. Connor Cook was only 11-for-19 with 143 yards. Not the best outing for the Spartans to close out conference play.

We also learned in Week 4 that Michigan State’s signature non-conference win against Oregon might not be as impressive as we thought. The Ducks were rolled 62-20 by the Utah Utes in Eugene. Remember if Ducks quarterback Vernon Adams hits a wide open receiver on the final drive, Oregon likely beats Michigan State and the Spartans would be ranked outside the top 10.

I will continue to pick against Michigan State against the spread until they cover a game. As long as the Spartans are ranked No. 2 in the country they will be big favorites, and we can take advantage of them being overvalued.

Next: Northwestern