Michigan State players talk Michigan rivalry

It’s one of the most anticipated games of the year in the B1G. And with so much on the line, this year’s Michigan-Michigan State game is as important as ever.

On Saturday, the Spartans and Wolverines will go head-to-head for positioning in the B1G East. Though MSU has one conference loss, a win over Penn State last weekend put it right back in the mix.

Michigan is 4-0 in the B1G with a chance to notch another signature win.

Tuesday, players from Michigan State met with the media to talk about Saturday’s matchup and the rivalry game with Michigan. Here’s what a few players had to say:

Bachie gets big grins with batting down last pass against U-M last year with Matt Morrissey to seal MSU's win. Says it was like being a kid again and felt like the ball was in the air for a minute. "When that ball went on the ground, you saw the emotion. It was very special."

— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) October 16, 2018

Lewerke on Michigan's defense: "A very aggressive defense. Kind of got a taste of that last year for the first time." One of his keys will be getting the ball out of his hands quickly.

— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) October 16, 2018

Willis on his final game against U-M: "I'm from Michigan, so they're all meaningful for me." Says this game is important because "it's the next one up" and not because it is his last Michigan game.

— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) October 16, 2018

Khari Willis says past slights by Michigan players will be mentioned, however he adds: "There's no need for extra motivation. With the history of this rivalry, we have enough there."

— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) October 16, 2018

Bachie says he understands how much the rivalry means to fans. "This is why you come to Michigan State."

— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) October 16, 2018