This is not how Mel Tucker thought this season would go. It’s hard to imagine this is how anyone who follows college football thought this season would go for the Michigan State Spartans.

The Spartans have been going in the wrong direction ever since losing to Washington in Week 3. Michigan State lost 4 in a row after that, finally snapping the skid with a strong win over Wisconsin last week.

Their odds aren’t great, but the Spartans still have a chance to earn a bowl bid this season. ESPN’s FPI gives Michigan State a 39.6% chance to reach 6 wins this year.

Of their 5 remaining games, Michigan State needs at least 3 wins. The schedule shakes up to Michigan, Illinois, Rutgers, Indiana and Penn State. That necessitates a win against a current top 25 team – on the road.

It’s surprising the odds are as high as they are in that case. For what it’s worth, Michigan State is favored in 2 of the remaining 5 games: Against Rutgers and Indiana.