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Michigan State Spartans Stats, Roster, Picks & More
Looking to bet on the Michigan State Spartans this season? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re a casual fan or a dedicated sports bettor, this guide will give you the edge you need.
We cover the team’s history, current roster, key stats, and betting trends — all with a sharp eye on what matters most: making smart, profitable bets. Let’s dive in.
Picks and Predictions for the Spartans
Looking to get started betting on the Michigan State Spartans right away? Well, our team of handicappers have some picks for you!
We have dozens of handicappers watching and betting on NCAAF games all season. To get the full gamut of college football picks, sign up at ScoresandStats.com.
Michigan State Spartans History
The Michigan State Spartans football program boasts a storied legacy that dates back to its inception in 1896. Originally competing as an independent team, the Spartans joined the Big Ten Conference in 1950, marking the beginning of their ascent in collegiate football. Under the leadership of head coach Clarence “Biggie” Munn, Michigan State secured its first national championship in 1952, setting the stage for decades of competitive play.
The 1960s and 1970s saw the Spartans solidify their reputation as a powerhouse. During this era, head coach Duffy Daugherty led the team to multiple Big Ten titles and another national championship in 1965. The Spartans were known for their formidable defense and dynamic offense, producing numerous All-Americans and future NFL stars. This period also intensified their rivalry with the Michigan Wolverines, adding depth to the state’s football culture.
In recent decades, Michigan State has continued to be a formidable force in college football. The 2010s, in particular, were marked by significant achievements under head coach Mark Dantonio, including multiple bowl victories and a Big Ten Championship in 2013. The Spartans’ resilience and adaptability have ensured their place as a perennial contender in the conference and on the national stage.
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Michigan State Spartans Timeline
1896: Michigan State College (then Michigan Agricultural College) fields its first football team.
1918: The team changes its name from the Aggies to the Spartans.
1951: Clarence “Biggie” Munn leads the Spartans to a perfect 9–0 season and is named national champion by several polls (not officially recognized by the AP).
1952: Michigan State wins its first consensus national championship with a 9–0 record in its second year in the Big Ten.
1966: Michigan State ties Notre Dame in the famous “Game of the Century.” Both teams finish undefeated and share the national title in some polls.
1987: Head coach George Perles leads the Spartans to a Big Ten Championship and a Rose Bowl victory over USC.
2007: Mark Dantonio is hired as head coach, beginning one of the most successful eras in Spartans football.
2013: The Spartans finish 13–1, win the Big Ten Championship, and defeat Stanford in the Rose Bowl — their first since 1987.
2015: Michigan State reaches the College Football Playoff for the first time but is shut out by Alabama in the semifinals.
2021: Under coach Mel Tucker, the Spartans go 11–2 and win the Peach Bowl, sparked by standout RB Kenneth Walker III.
2024: Jonathan Smith is hired as head coach after the dismissal of Mel Tucker; the team finishes 5–7 in a rebuilding season.
Michigan State Spartans Stats
The 2024 season was a challenging one for the Michigan State Spartans, concluding with a 5–7 record. Offensively, the team averaged 19.3 points per game, ranking 123rd nationally. The defense allowed 26.1 points per game, placing them 77th among FBS teams.
In terms of yardage, the Spartans’ offense struggled, averaging 334.4 total yards per game (218.1 passing and 116.3 rushing). The defense allowed an average of 349.5 yards per game, indicating a need for improvement on both sides of the ball.
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Michigan State Spartans Roster for 2025
The 2025 Michigan State Spartans are entering the season with a mix of promising underclassmen and experienced upperclassmen, creating a roster with potential for growth. Leading the way is quarterback Aidan Chiles, a highly-touted transfer from Oregon State who has shown flashes of dual-threat capability and should thrive in Jonathan Smith’s offensive system. In the backfield, Nate Carter returns as the projected starting running back after a solid 2024 campaign where he consistently moved the chains and showed reliability in pass protection. Nick Marsh, a physically gifted wideout with size and speed, is expected to be Chiles’ top target, especially in red zone situations where his athleticism gives him a mismatch advantage.
On the defensive side, Jordan Hall is an emerging leader at linebacker, known for his high football IQ and ability to read plays before they develop. Hall will likely anchor a defense that showed flashes of improvement late last season. In the secondary, Charles Brantley brings veteran experience and strong coverage instincts, often tasked with matching up against the opposing team’s top receiver. If the Spartans can stay healthy and their younger players develop quickly, this roster has the tools to make noise in the Big Ten under Smith’s new leadership.
Michigan State Spartans Injury Report
As of March 25, 2025, there are no significant injuries reported for the Michigan State Spartans. This clean bill of health positions the team well for spring practices and the upcoming season.
But, injuries are unexpected and can really mess up the state of the game (and your wagers). Keep up to date on the latest Spartans injuries:
Get the latest Michigan State Spartans injury updates here at ScoresandStats.com. With this report you’ll gain valuable betting insights for this season. For more betting advice you can also sign up and view even more information.
Michigan State Spartans Betting Outlook and Trends
As we look ahead to the 2025 season, several betting trends could present opportunities for savvy sports bettors wagering on Michigan State games. You can also follow best handicappers throughout the season for real-time betting angles.
Inconsistent Offensive Performance
The Spartans’ offense in 2024 struggled with efficiency, especially on third downs and in red zone conversions. However, they occasionally strung together big plays early in games, suggesting value in first-half overs or first-quarter props. Bettors may find an edge targeting team total unders in full games but looking for bursts of productivity early on — particularly against weak defenses.
Defensive Stability Against the Run
While Michigan State’s defense didn’t dominate statistically, they were above average at limiting explosive runs and held several opponents under their season rushing averages. This could translate into value when betting unders on opponent rushing props, especially against ground-heavy teams. In tighter matchups, this rush defense could help keep games closer than the spread suggests.
Early Season Line Value
In recent years, including 2024, the Spartans have been undervalued in early-season matchups, especially against non-conference opponents. Bettors who backed Michigan State ATS in Weeks 1–3 often found favorable closing line value. With a new system and youthful roster, the market might again underrate MSU early, creating short-term betting opportunities before the lines adjust.
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Betting Trends from Last Season
Here are three notable betting trends from the Spartans’ 2024 campaign:
- Point Totals Skewed Low: Michigan State games often leaned toward the under, with the team averaging just 19.3 points per game while allowing 26.1. Their struggles on third down and lack of explosive plays contributed to drawn-out drives and lower overall scoring. Savvy bettors who consistently took the under, especially in Big Ten matchups, saw good returns.
- ATS Struggles as a Favorite: The Spartans underperformed when favored, going just 1–3 ATS in games where they were expected to win. Their offensive inconsistency made it hard to cover spreads, particularly against feisty mid-tier teams. This trend suggests value may lie in fading Michigan State when laying points.
- First-Half Betting Value: Despite their overall losing record, Michigan State was surprisingly competitive in the first half of games. They led or stayed within one score in six of their seven losses by halftime. This made them a profitable bet in first-half spreads, particularly as underdogs.
Key Players for Betting on the Michigan State Spartans
The Spartans have put together a formidable roster going into the 2025 season. Anyone looking to bet on player props should keep an eye on these five players:
Aidan Chiles – Quarterback
Aidan Chiles is arguably the most important player on Michigan State’s roster heading into 2025. The dual-threat quarterback transferred from Oregon State with head coach Jonathan Smith and brings an immediate upgrade to the passing game. Chiles has the arm strength to stretch the field and the legs to escape pressure, which gives him upside in both passing and rushing prop bets. Bettors should watch for his rushing yards lines in particular — especially early in the season as he adjusts to Big Ten defenses. In high-tempo matchups, Chiles could easily hit the over on total yardage props.
Nate Carter – Running Back
Carter returns after leading the team in rushing last season and will once again serve as the workhorse back. He’s known for his tough running style and consistency, which makes him a solid option for rushing yard props, especially in games where MSU wants to control tempo. He also sees red zone touches, making him a potential value in touchdown scorer markets. Bettors should consider his overs in matchups against weaker run defenses or when Michigan State is favored and expected to run more.
Nick Marsh – Wide Receiver
A rising sophomore with big-play ability, Marsh is poised to become Aidan Chiles’ go-to target. He has the size and speed to stretch the field vertically and could rack up chunk plays against secondaries that overcommit to stopping the run. Marsh could offer great value in receiving yard and longest reception props, especially in shootouts. As he builds chemistry with Chiles, his touchdown scorer odds might also become attractive in mid-tier matchups.
Jordan Hall – Linebacker
Hall isn’t just the defensive leader — he’s a stat-stuffer who affects multiple phases of the game. He racks up tackles, reads plays well, and is often around the ball, which is great for bettors looking at team defensive props. When betting on under totals or against run-heavy teams, Hall’s presence is a big reason to trust Michigan State’s defense to hold the line. His impact could also be felt in turnover props when the Spartans face error-prone offenses.
Charles Brantley – Defensive Back
As one of the most experienced players in the secondary, Brantley will be key in Michigan State’s ability to defend the pass. He often shadows the opponent’s top receiver, which means games featuring elite WRs may result in reduced production — a factor bettors can use when looking at under props for opposing wideouts. Brantley also has a nose for big plays, including interceptions, so he’s worth watching in defensive/special teams props, especially in close, low-scoring contests.
Michigan State Spartans Summary
Betting on the Michigan State Spartans is never short on drama — from dynamic playmakers like Aidan Chiles and Nate Carter to a defense that keeps games tight, there’s plenty of value to uncover each week. The 2025 season brings a fresh coaching vision, rising stars, and a roster ready to bounce back from a transitional year. By understanding the team’s performance trends, key players, and betting angles, you put yourself in a position to outsmart the market.
And if you’re serious about turning your knowledge into profit, signing up for a handicapper service like ScoresandStats.com can take your betting game to the next level. With expert picks, data-driven analysis, and real-time updates, you’ll always be a step ahead — and that’s the edge every bettor needs.
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