Michigan currently is on a bye week, but following that is one of the 2 most important contests on the annual schedule.

“The Game” vs. archrival Ohio State is obviously circled on the Wolverines’ calendar year in and year out. But there’s also the one against their in-state foe an hour away in East Lansing that also bears weight.

Michigan hosts Michigan State on Oct. 29 at the Big House as it looks to avenge last year’s 37-33 loss in the series at Spartan Stadium. Even though the Spartans, also on a bye week, are 3-4 following an overtime win against Wisconsin, Wolverines players, including offensive lineman Trevor Keegan, understand that a win is vital to keep their hopes of a 2nd straight B1G championship and College Football Playoff berth alive.

“I’m only 1-2 against them. It really means everything to us. The State game is the most important to us,” he said. “If we win those, it’ll make or break our season. So we know the importance of this game. We’re going to prepare our tails off, and we’re super excited.”