The outlook for the upcoming season for Michigan State varies depending on who you ask. There are some who believe the Spartans could challenge Michigan and Ohio State to win the B1G East this year. Vegas, however, has set the over-under at just 7.5 games.

According to FOX Sports’ Colin Cowherd, betting the over on MSU this season is essentially a lock.

On Wednesday, Cowherd talked about why Michigan State should have no trouble hitting the over on that win projection in 2019. The number of returning starters and strong defensive play were the keys to his argument.

“The guys in Vegas have Michigan State with 7.5 wins,” Cowherd said. “Michigan State is going to win more than 7.5 games and here’s why. They return 17 starters, that’s fourth-most in the country. When you return a bunch of starters, you’re always great in the first month because you bring in experienced players and colleges have limited practice time. They’ll be great in September.

“They return their entire defensive line, which was No. 1 in the country against the rush. They return their entire offensive line. This is a program, by the way, in the last eight years, they have won half the games they’ve been an underdog. They win games you don’t think they will on paper. They return their lines and have a very good player development program. Over Michigan state 7.5 wins.”

Michigan State returns three of the best defenders in the country, all at different positions. Kenny Willekes was the B1G Defensive Lineman of the Year last season and Joe Bachie is one of the league’s top linebackers. Josiah Scott is also one of the best secondary players in the country.

The major concern, though, is Michigan State’s offense. The Spartans were putrid last season, averaging just 18.7 points and 342.1 yards per game. Both numbers ranked 13th in the B1G.

Head coach Mark Dantonio made some changes to the offensive staff, hoping that would remedy some of the issues. If those moves pan out, Michigan State could easily challenge for a spot in Indianapolis at the end of the year.

Michigan State finished last season 7-6.