It wasn't a pretty game, but the weather clearly contributed a lot to that, much like the Wisconsin game. The stats are a bit disconcerting, but as noted above, you can wonder about the "ifs" until the cows come home. Much of the reason for our limited offensive production was the score -- we led throughout and got conservative in the second half to shorten the game. Given the circumstances, I can't say I disagree with that strategy, and it worked. NE never really threatened to take the lead in the second half. So I'll take an ugly win any day.
As for MSU, yes, they're playing well and will be a very tough challenge. That said, I like how this game sets up. We'll be the underdog despite going 12-0 for the first time in school history and despite being one of only two undefeated teams in D1 football. Amazing that we'll still be the underdog, but it's great -- the Hawks will have an extra chip on their shoulders. Yes, MSU is very talented, but we match up better against pro-style offenses, and Cook isn't very mobile, which also helps us. Furthermore, Cook isn't 100% with the shoulder, and he's potentially one big hit from heading to the bench -- not that I'd wish injury on him, but he could very easily aggravate the shoulder injury and be unable to play effectively. So overall, I like the match-up. No, it won't be easy, but this is a game we absolutely can win. I wouldn't have been nearly as optimistic if we were going against tOSU, who is arguably playing as well as anyone in the nation and has a scheme and talent level that would pose massive problems for our defense.
