Michigan State vs Notre Dame Odds - Irish to get back on track against Spartans

The Michigan State vs Notre Dame odds pits two teams coming off very disappointing last-second losses. The Spartans’ loss was worse as they lost at home to Central Michigan, while Notre Dame blew a lead at The Big House in Michigan. Online betting fans should note that the Irish are healthier and more balanced on offense, which will be the difference on Saturday.

Michigan State vs Notre Dame odds: Notre Dame -10.5

• WHAT: NCAA football betting
  
• WHEN: Saturday, September 19th –3:30 PM ET
  
• WHERE: Notre Dame Stadium – South Bend, IN
  
• PICK: Notre Dame +10.5

Michigan State vs Notre Dame odds maker breakdown: What’s On The Line
Central Michigan pulled a rabbit out of their hat to win in East Lansing, but the Spartans helped them along the way. The big issue for Michigan State is how will they recover after taking a punch in the gut, and if they’re good enough to play up to expectations.

As for Notre Dame, they blew it in Michigan but it’s pretty clear that the Wolverines are a little better than people thought. Notre Dame needs a bounce-back win to get on track. The crazy talk of a National Championship is pretty much out the window unless they can beat USC, but NCAA football betting cappers know that this Notre Dame team is still pretty good overall – regardless of whether they are BCS-bound.

Betting Edge: Notre Dame

Michigan State vs Notre Dame odds maker breakdown: Offense
The Spartans offensive line is a mess right now and that’s hurting the team, which is supposed to have a power rushing identity. Center Joel Nitchman needs to get healthy and the offensive line has to play better. The problem is that these issues can’t be resolved in one week’s time.

For Notre Dame, their offense looks fairly fluid outside of some questionable play-calling. Head coach Charlie Weis still isn’t a big fan of running the ball; otherwise the Fighting Irish might still be undefeated. Nonetheless, the passing game is solid with Jimmy Claussen connecting with his stellar wideouts on a regular basis.

Betting Edge: Notre Dame

Michigan State vs Notre Dame odds maker breakdown: Defense
Just as the Spartans’ offensive line is a mess, so is their defensive line. The Spartans are not generating much pressure on the quarterback with just their front four, which is a very dangerous weakness when you are playing Notre Dame. The Spartans will have to send blitz packages, but that will expose them. Central Michigan’s Dan LeFevour carved up the supposedly-good Spartans secondary for 326 yards so Claussen should have a field day.

Notre Dame’s defense hasn’t been dominant by any stretch of the imagination but they have been competent – save for the breakdown on their final drive in Michigan. In front of their home crowd at South Bend, look for a better performance this week.

Betting Edge: Notre Dame

Michigan State vs Notre Dame odds maker breakdown: Notable Injuries
Spartans top target, Mark Dell, did play last week but he’s still battling a shoulder injury from the preseason. He’s not fully healthy yet. On the offensive line, the Spartans may be without two starters as both center Joel Nitchman and right guard J’Michael Deane are questionable.

Betting Edge: Notre Dame

Michigan State vs Notre Dame State betting breakdown: Outlook and Pick
The Spartans are struggling right now and are limping into this contest. Notre Dame isn’t coming in on a high but this is an important game. The Spartans don’t get pressure on the quarterback and they are facing one of the best passing teams in the nation. Sportsbook bettors know that can spell disaster.

BLAKE’S PICK: Notre Dame -10.5

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Blake Frazier is one of betonline.com's college football experts.