I actually think that Michigan State is going to be improved this season and more formidable going forward with Smith at the helm.
Michigan State has some decent NIL backers. Everyone got turned off by the Mel Tugger stuff, but if Smith shows real signs of life, they're going to be okay on that front.
Regarding Maryland, folks should look at their schedule. They just brought in a decent dual threat, true freshman QB, and Locksley has actually amassed some talent. Everyone is picking these guys at the bottom of the Big 10 with Purdue this year. Maybe that comes to fruition. That said, I think they've got a shot at being an ASU type of riser this year. Regarding the schedule, they play poo in the non-con and then they miss Oregon, Iowa, Ohio State, USC and Penn State. They get Indiana and Michigan at home and go to Indiana. They could go anywhere from 3-9 to 9-3.