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“Rourke's return should challenge Michigan State's defense”
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“Rourke's return should challenge Michigan State's defense”

The Michigan State Spartans have an upset in mind when they welcome the undefeated Indiana Hoosiers to Spartan Stadium this afternoon.

The Spartans are coming off a tough loss and facing one of the best teams in the country, led by first-year coach Curt Cignetti.

Cignetti has turned a historically poor Indiana program into a College Football Playoff contender. The Hoosiers have an explosive offense and a solid defense, and it's easy to see why they are undefeated.

Michigan State will be one of the tougher teams Indiana faces, but the Spartans will need to play a flawless game to pull off the upset.

What could complicate this is the return of Hoosiers quarterback Kurtis Rourke. The transfer from Ohio missed Indiana's game against Washington last week because of a thumb injury on his throwing hand.

Could this injury limit Rourke? What does he bring to the Hoosiers offense?

Indiana still beat the Huskies without Rourke, but it was clear the passing attack wasn't the same with Tayven Jackson at quarterback. Rourke, an Ontario Canada native nicknamed “The Maple Missile,” made a name for himself in the NFL Draft with his excellent throwing ability.

Rourke has completed nearly 75 percent of his passes with 15 touchdowns and just three interceptions. He doesn't have elite athleticism, but is an excellent processor with great arm talent.

Rourke's presence changes the dynamic of Indiana's offense. He has developed a great connection with Elijah Sarratt and Omar Cooper Jr., Indiana's two best weapons. When Michigan State's pass rush fails, Rourke sits in the pocket and cuts through the defense.

Jackson is a good quarterback, but Cignetti identified Rourke as his starter. Rourke was one of the most efficient players in the country and led the Hoosiers to a rebound year. His arm talent is likely to cause problems for defensive coordinator Joe Rossi's defense.

To beat Rourke, Michigan State's defenders will have to be smart. He is a good decision maker but can be prone to making mistakes under pressure. He allows throws to come his way that could affect Malik Spencer or Nikai Martinez.

Michigan State's pass rush will have to impact Rourke if the Spartans want to have a chance in this game. Rourke won't be running much, so it's important that he stays comfortable in the pocket.

Rourke's return improves Indiana's offense and reduces Michigan State's chances of beating the Hoosiers. If they don't make it Rourkethe Old Oaken Bucket goes back to Bloomington.

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