TV/radio: 6 p.m., ESPN, WCKG-FM 105.9.
Line: Notre Dame by 3.
Records: Notre Dame 1-1, MSU 1-1.
Series: Notre Dame leads 42-24-1.
Last meeting: Spartans won 22-16 on Sept. 20, 2003, in South Bend.
Team comparison:
(2004 averages, rank)
%%
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CATEGORY ND MSU
Rushing offense 73.0 (101) 151.1 (57)
Passing offense 221.5 (55) 231.0 (47)
Total offense 294.5 (89) 382.50 (56)
Scoring offense 22.5 (68) 19.0 (83)
Rushing defense 39.0 (6) 205.0 (93)
Passing defense 251.5 (88) 167.0 (29)
Total defense 290.5 (32) 372.0 (68)
Scoring defense 20.0 (50) 13.0 (21)
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Notre Dame outlook: The Irish will need to utilize the big-play potential of their passing game if they are to keep the Spartans’ front seven from keying on run.
Michigan State outlook: Sophomore Stephen Reaves will start at QB, but Drew Stanton and Damon Dowdell will be ready if needed.