Observations on the first half with the Spartans, 3-14

Michigan State has dominated the first half; the Spartans converted two red zones for 14 points with 7 of those points off two Michigan Turnovers. Michigan converted one red zone on the first drive of the game for 3 points. Didn't we have two weeks to prepare for this game? Mark Dantonio and his staff have his team way better prepared, and they are playing with poise and confidence. Our defense looks like they've not prepared for this game at all. Our offensive play calling continues to be poor, and O'Korn is not making good decisions; the 3 sacks and hurries by the Spartans have got him coming unglued.

Offense was bad! We have 8 first downs, 155 net yards with only 43 on the ground and are 4 of 11 in 3rd and 4th down conversions despite a 5 minute time of possession advantage. The two turnovers are INEXCUSABLE!!! John O'Korn hit 10 of 19 for 112 yards. Grant Perry has 4 receptions for 44 yards; Sean McKeon has 2 catches for 41 yards, but he fumbled just before halftime ruining a scoring chance. Chris Evans ran 8 times for 28 yards, and Karan Higdon ran 4 times for 18 yards. Ty Isaac ran twice for 10 yards, but fumbled in the 1st quarter to give the Spartans the ball at the Michigan 46.

Defense was even worse!!! Michigan State had 11 first downs, 186 net yards wtih 112 on the ground, and was 1 of 5 in 3rd down conversions. ZERO turnovers!!! Brian Lewerke was 6 of 14 for 74 yards and a 16 yard TD to Madre London; London also led the Spartan ground game with 59 yards in 5 carries including a 50 yarder. Lewerke added the other red zone TD with a 14 yard scamper. Brandon Watson led the disturbingly poor defense with 4 tackles.

Special Teams were outplayed as well as the Spartans dominated field position. Hartberger has 4 punts with two inside the 20. Scanlon has 3 kickoffs with one touchback; Foug has one kickoff for one touchback. Quinn Nordin hit his field goal attempt. Two punts by Brad Robbins averaged 47 yards with one inside the 20; however, Kekoa Crawford had a 14 yard return, and Ambry Thomas came up with a 30 yarder.

Second Half had better change and change quickly, otherwise, we are in for some serious soul searching on this squad. We've got to get some turnovers, make some offensive plays, and play solid defense if we are to comeback in this one. Go Blue!