Michigan State football may be about to get a serious lift — just in time for a key matchup.
Nick Marsh and Makhi Frazier are reportedly close to returning to the field, giving the Spartans a potential double boost as they gear up for USC. But while East Lansing is celebrating, USC is dealing with a brand-new NCAA rule change that could throw its game-week preparations into disarray.
Injury Updates: Marsh & Frazier Eye Comeback
According to sources close to the program, wide receiver Nick Marsh and defensive lineman Makhi Frazier have been ramping up their workloads in practice and could be cleared to play as early as this weekend.
- Nick Marsh: The highly touted freshman receiver has been sidelined since Week 1, leaving a gap in Michigan State’s passing attack. His return would give quarterback Katin Houser another big-bodied target downfield and add red-zone firepower.
- Makhi Frazier: A key rotational piece on the defensive line, Frazier’s comeback could shore up a run defense that has struggled at times this season.
“Having those two guys back would be huge,” one Spartan insider said. “Marsh stretches the field, and Frazier brings much-needed depth in the trenches. This is exactly the kind of momentum swing you want heading into a game like USC.”
⚡ NCAA Rule Complicates USC Game Plan
While Michigan State is trending up, USC is facing an unexpected challenge. A recently enforced NCAA practice restriction is limiting USC’s ability to run certain full-contact sessions in the buildup to the game — leaving Lincoln Riley’s staff scrambling to adjust.
The rule, aimed at player safety, reduces the number of high-intensity practices teams can conduct during a short week. That means less time for USC to test defensive schemes against a potentially rejuvenated Michigan State offense.
“This could change the entire rhythm of USC’s preparation,” said a Big Ten analyst. “If Marsh is back and Michigan State opens up the playbook, USC might be reacting on the fly.”
What This Means for the Spartans
With a fresh offensive weapon in Marsh and a stronger defensive rotation thanks to Frazier, Michigan State could be in its best position yet to challenge USC’s explosive attack. Fans are already speculating that the Spartans might pull off an upset if their stars return in top form.
What’s Next
All eyes will be on the team’s injury report later this week for official confirmation. If Marsh and Frazier are cleared, expect Michigan State to hit the field with renewed energy — and for USC to have its hands full.
Bottom Line:
Michigan State is trending upward at the perfect time, while USC’s prep work just hit a major roadblock. This could set the stage for one of the most dramatic matchups of the weekend — and potentially a season-defining upset for the Spartans.
