Alabama Football: Week eight key games for Crimson Tide fans
By Ronald Evans
![GLENDALE, AZ - JANUARY 11: The College Football Playoff National Championship Trophy is seen on the field before the 2016 College Football Playoff National Championship Game between the Clemson Tigers and the Alabama Crimson Tide at University of Phoenix Stadium on January 11, 2016 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) GLENDALE, AZ - JANUARY 11: The College Football Playoff National Championship Trophy is seen on the field before the 2016 College Football Playoff National Championship Game between the Clemson Tigers and the Alabama Crimson Tide at University of Phoenix Stadium on January 11, 2016 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/3eab0398a2d5e6852e3faefd5f58353eb97b1c65162d201c9decba2b7d2db2cc.jpg)
Michigan at Michigan State in Lansing, MI
After a disappointing season-opening loss to Notre Dame, Michigan has been chopping down their competitors. Head coach Jim Harbaugh’s team is playing well heading into Saturday’s contest against rival Michigan State. Harbaugh is 1-5 against Michigan State and Ohio State. Last week, the Spartans pulled off a major upset over number eight Penn State in Happy Valley. The Spartans have defeated Michigan four out of the last five games.
One huge reason for Michigan’s turnaround is their stout defense which allows only 238 yards per game, second best in the nation. Michigan State boasts the top rushing defense in the country surrendering only 62 yards and 2.34 yards-per-carry.
Michigan’s running back Karan Higdon has rushed for 687 yards and scored six times. In the last five games, he has gained over 100 yards. Quarterback Shea Patterson has provided quite a transformation for the Wolverines offense by providing a steady hand by running or throwing.
With revenge on their minds, Michigan pulls it out in a squeaker with the tandem of Patterson and Higdon being the difference.
Bama Hammer, Contributor, Ronald Moody: Michigan 34 MSU 31