The Spartans are a narrow underdog in Saturday’s matchup at Illinois. Michigan State comes into this game with a 4-5 overall record and 2-4 conference record. The Spartans have lost two straight games but had a bye last week to regroup for the final three-game stretch.

Columnist Graham Couch breaks down five key factors in the Spartans' matchup at Illinois, including how to watch, the betting line and his prediction.

Michigan State will be looking to get back to .500 this weekend when it faces Illinois on the road. Not only would a win give the Spartans an even record with two games to go, but it would bring them one step closer to a bowl game,