Boise State meets Michigan State, in a matchup that might have been a bit tastier last season. We like the Spartans (-7), but judging from our performance last night, you might want to invest in the road team.

Two New Quarterbacks: Michigan State is confident Andrew Maxwell’s time on the bench has him ready to step into the Spartans’ starting role. It would have to be that, since he has just 20 career passing attempts in Big Ten play. His only seven last year came in a 55-3 blowout of hapless Indiana. Boise State’s Joe Southwick has a bit more playing experience, but has bigger shoes to fill, replacing the winningest quarterback in college football history.

One New Team: Pundits are unsure quite what to expect from Boise State, since they have just five returning starters, the fewest in FBS. There is little that is firm, beyond vague aphorisms about Chris Petersen’s coaching ability. Offensive continuity should suffer, especially without Kellen Moore. Their defensive front may struggle as well. The five defensive ends Boise expects to play against the Spartans have 1.5 career sacks combined. Michigan State may suffer from attrition on offense, but most of their top five 2011 defense returns.

Efficiency: Boise State spent $527,631 per victory between 2008 and 2010, 1/5 the average in FBS football.

[Photo via Presswire]

Previously: College Football Top 25: Boise State Broncos, No. 22
Previously: College Football Top 25: Michigan State Spartans, No. 20
Previously: Craig James is Not a Boise State Broncos Fan