Observations on the first half with Michigan State, 13-7

Michigan gained 3 red zones, but could only convert them into 13 points with their "vanilla" offense; Michigan State gained one red zone and came up with no points. The Spartans couldn't convert the one Michigan turnover by Cornelius Johnson into points either.

Offense gained 245 yards with 135 on the ground with 13 first downs; the Wolverines were 6 of 9 in 3rd and 4th down conversions. J.J. McCarthy was 9 of 14 for 110 yards, and ran 5 times for 35 yards. Blake Corum ran 13 times for 76 yards, and caught a 2 yard pass for a TD. Donovan Edwards gained 24 yards on 4 carries plus caught a 28 yard pass. Luke Schoonmaker caught 4 passes for 57 yards. Michigan held a 5 minute time of possession advantage that resulted in 6 more offensive plays. Cal Haladay had 8 tackles, and Kendell Brooks had 6 tackles including 2 for loss for the Spartans.

Defense let the Spartans gain 189 yards with 55 on the ground for 8 first downs; MSU was 3 of 8 in 3rd and 4th down conversions with two big 4th down stops by the Wolverines. Payton Thorne was 10 of 13 for 134 yards, and ran 4 times for 7 yards; he experienced little pressure most of the first half until a late sack just before halftime. Keon Coleman caught 4 passes for 104 yards and a TD. Jaylan Reed caught 2 passes for 15 yards, and had a 17 yard run. Junior Colson led the defense with 8 tackles; Makari Paige had 6 tackles.

Special Teams were solid with Jake Moody hitting both field goals, and all kickoffs for touchbacks. Michigan State punted once, but Michigan had no punts.

Second Half will continue to be a close, hard-fought struggle! Michigan needs to not have any turnovers while putting more pressure on Thorne if they are to prevail in this one. Go Blue!