Michigan State football: 5 bold predictions for the Holiday Bowl vs Washington State

5. Brian Lewerke scores five touchdowns

Michigan State quarterback Brian Lewerke had a pretty good first season as the Spartans full time starter under center. He got better as the season progressed and it is now time to put it altogether in the bowl game.

Lewerke on the season passed for 2,580 yards and threw for 17 touchdowns to only seven interceptions. The sophomore completed nearly 59 percent of his passes. Being a dual threat quarterback, Lewerke also was the second rusher on the team behind running back LJ Scott. He rushed for 486 yards, a 4.5 yards per carry average and five touchdowns. The Spartans were mostly successful when they would let Lewerke sling it around to the talented wide receivers.

Washington State will be a test for Lewerke and his receivers. The Cougars rank first in the Pac-12 in passing defense, ninth overall, allowing only 167 yards through the air per game. They have allowed only eight passing touchdowns and intercepted opposing quarterbacks 14 times.

Despite a tough defense, this feels like it could be a big game for Lewerke to help him springboard into his junior year. He threw for only three or more touchdowns in two games this season, but he will toss four against the Cougars. Lewerke adds another score on the ground and ends the season with the most impressive game of his young career.