A massive game with plate-shifting playoff implications takes place at Ohio Stadium this Saturday at noon ET, as the Ohio State Buckeyes host the Michigan State Spartans.

Both teams enter with 9-1 records and the chance to control their destiny in the Big Ten’s East division. As such, they hold all the cards necessary to make a run to the College Football Playoff.

At home and riding an eight-game win streak, the current college football odds indicate that No. 4 Ohio State is a substantial favorite over No. 7 Michigan State. You can see those odds, and our college football picks for this matchup, in the article below.

Odds subject to change.

5 Keys to Michigan State vs Ohio State

Stroud padding Heisman resume: A modest start for Ohio State’s C.J. Stroud, which included an interception in each of his first three games, has given way to a statistical surge that has him in the hunt for this year’s Heisman Trophy. In his past six games, Stroud is averaging 345.5 yards/game and has 22 touchdown passes versus just two interceptions.

Rushing with efficiency: For as good as Ohio State has been through the air, they might join Michigan State in trying to establish the run on Saturday. Both teams rank inside the top 15 in yards per rush (5.96 for Ohio State, second; 5.27 for Michigan State, 12th) this season.

Four years of dominance: You might think Ohio State’s 19.5-point cushion at sportsbooks is hefty for a top-10 matchup, but it’s more justifiable when you consider recent history between the Buckeyes and Spartans. Ohio State has won each of the past four meetings by 20 or more points, including a 52-12 romp on the road last year.

Where’s Nailor?: Jalen Nailor has missed Michigan State’s past two games with a hand injury, and his status for this week is questionable. He’s an impact player for the Spartans when he’s out there, as he’s still second on the team in catches (31), yards (587) and touchdowns (six).

Wilson’s grand return: Ohio State’s receiving corps is a three-headed monster, and last week it returned to full form with a healthy Garrett Wilson. He caught 10 passes for 126 yards and three touchdowns, while Chris Olave and Jaxon Smith-Njigba both had nine catches for 80-plus yards and a touchdown of their own. Pick your poison, folks.

HEISMAN WATCH: Bryce Young leads contenders, CJ Stroud Moves Up To 2nd

Michigan State vs. Ohio State Weather Forecast

There might not be much sun out in Columbus, Ohio, on Saturday, but temperatures will rise into the mid-40s with just a 30% chance of precipitation.

Michigan State vs Ohio State Moneyline

Whichever team comes out of this matchup with a win is going to have all the respect of the college football world. But based on recent head-to-head history, and the way Ohio State has played since Week 3, we just have to believe the Buckeyes are the ones who’ll be victorious.

The +730 odds for Michigan State almost makes it worth a hedge on value alone, but we’re bullish on the Buckeyes. Then again, with -1300 college football betting moneyline odds, the Buckeyes will need to be added to a parlay for any worthwhile juice.

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Michigan State vs Ohio State Point Spread

Ohio State has the No. 1 offense in the nation (550.4 yards, 46.3 points per game). It’s safe to assume they’ll be able to score. The question is, can the Spartans keep up?

Nailor’s status by week’s end is important. Even without him, running back Kenneth Walker III is bound to make his mark. The line shifted slightly (from 18.5 to 19.5 points), and we think you should take it on the Spartans’ side. Michigan State is 7-1-2 against the spread this season. You can get Michigan State +19.5 (-110) at FanDuel.

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Michigan State vs Ohio State Totals

A 67.5-point total on betting apps is no joke, but that’s how good this Ohio State offense is.

Both teams have seen the over hit in six of 10 games, and each of the Spartans’ past three have gone that way. We like the over to hit again. You can get Over 66.5 (-110) at DraftKings.

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