Whenever Michigan and Michigan State play, it is a big game.

But when the two squads jog out of the tunnel on Saturday at Spartan Stadium the game will have even more meaning than usual. Besides the normal rivalry, No. 9 Michigan State is the conference leader and No. 11 Michigan trails the Spartans by a half game.

Michigan State, under first year coach John L. Smith, has climbed its way to the top of the conference with a strong defense and solid passing attack.

If the Spartans hadn't had a momentary collapse against Louisiana Tech, allowing two touchdowns in the final 1:09, Michigan State would be undefeated.

Last season the Spartans finished 4-8 after starting the season 2-0.

Smith said that the quick turn around was possible because his squad had the talent. Without talent present a rebuilding process is inevitable. Smith is working with the more advanced part of the equation with his team.

"We are learning to do what is right during the week," Smith said. "If we get it right then we can get it done on the weekend. Regardless of wins and losses, we're not going to accept not doing it right during the week."

The return of Spartans quarterback Jeff Smoker has helped the team dramatically. The senior was suspended for the final five games of the 2002 season after admitting to a substance abuse program.

Smith sat him down at the beginning of the season and told Smoker that he didn't have to stay at Michigan State.

"You can transfer and leave this behind you," Smith said. "Or you can come back and take the tough road. I said, 'It is not going to be easy.' "

Smoker has responded to challenge throwing for 2070 yards and 12 touchdowns.

Michigan is coming off its best game of the season, as the Wolverines routed Purdue 31-3 in Michigan Stadium.

Purdue football coach Joe Tiller said his team didn't plays its best, but Michigan deserves all the credit.

"They played nearly a perfect game," Tiller said. "Sometimes you end up with an ugly score."

Illinois infirmary

Every team has to deal with its share of injuries, but the Ilini have had an overwhelming amount.

In total, Illinois has had 14 players, ten of which were starters, suffer an injury. Quarterback Jon Beutjer suffered a herniated disc in his back against Michigan State and is out for the season.

Running back E.B. Hasley sprained his knee against Michigan. Wide receivers Lonnie Hurst and Kelvin Hayden were injured against Minnesota. Hurst broke his fibula and is out for the season,

Illinois football coach Ron Turner said Pierre Thomas, who was Hasley's replacement, is lost for the season after suffering a contusion on Saturday.

"I never have seen anything like this as an assistant or head coach," Turner said.

Wins and wins

St. John's coach John Gagliardi can tie former Grambling coach Eddie Robinson's record of 408 career wins at any level this Saturday.

Penn State football coach Joe Paterno said he couldn't be happier for Gagliardi.

"John and Eddie are unbelievable," Paterno said. "I wish him the best and to keep coaching, so that they don't tell me to retire."