QB Alessio Milivojevic was sacked 25 times in four starts last season, and the rebuilt offensive line (with transfers Ben Murawski and Trent Fraley) must hold up against Toledo's front. The weather forecast of light rain and 15 mph wind could further disrupt pass protection and timing.

With a shaky offensive line and a quarterback prone to sacks, Michigan State will lean on RB Cam Edwards, who had 1,240 scrimmage yards last season. Establishing the run is essential to control the clock, protect the defense, and keep the game manageable in what is expected to be a rebuilding year.

Michigan State's defense forced only nine turnovers last season (sixth-lowest in FBS), largely due to a thin defensive line that couldn't generate pressure. Against Toledo, the Spartans must find ways to disrupt the quarterback and create takeaways to compensate for offensive limitations.

New special teams coordinator LeVar Woods (from Iowa) brings a detailed, disciplined approach. Punter Rhys Dakin (transfer from Iowa) and returners could provide field position advantages, especially in rainy, windy conditions that may limit scoring. This unit could be a key differentiator in a low-scoring game.

Playing at home with a 2.1-point HFA and facing a Toledo team that must travel, Michigan State can use the familiar environment and expected light rain and wind to slow down the game. This favors a conservative, run-heavy, field-position strategy that masks the Spartans' personnel weaknesses.

Michigan's offense is expected to feature more spread concepts and increased designed runs for QB Bryce Underwood, who struggled as a freshman. The Wolverines return RB Jordan Marshall (932 yards, 10 TDs) and add 5-star freshman Savion Hiter, plus a revamped receiving corps led by Andrew Marsh and transfers JJ Buchanan and Jaime Ffrench. The offensive line returns four starters, so the unit should be more explosive than last year's 68th-ranked scoring offense.

DC Jay Hill aims to replicate the 2023 national title defense with varied looks and simulated blitzes. All-American DE John Henry Daley (11.5 sacks) anchors the line, while the secondary is deep with returning corners Jyaire Hill and Zeke Berry, safety Rod Moore, and transfers Smith Snowden and Chris Bracy. Linebacker depth is a concern, but the defense has top-unit potential if healthy.

Michigan brought in P Cameron Brown (UNLV) and K Trey Butkowski (Pitt, 20-of-23 FG as a freshman) to address last year's special teams struggles. Andrew Marsh is the leading returner candidate, with Salesi Moa and Ffrench also in the mix. Improved fundamentals are expected under new coordinator Kerry Coombs.

Michigan plays at home with a 2.7-point HFA and no travel, facing Western Michigan. The weather forecast shows thundery outbreaks and 18 mph wind, which could affect passing and kicking. The Wolverines have a rest advantage as both teams start the season fresh.

With a new coaching staff, offensive system, and several transfers, Michigan may need time to gel. The preseason outlook projects a 9-3 ceiling, but the opener against a MAC opponent is a chance to build confidence. Key to watch: how quickly Underwood adapts to the spread and whether the defense can generate turnovers early.