Observations on the win over Michigan State, 31-20
Michigan had four red zones for 24 points; Michigan State had two red zones for 13 points. The Wolverines scored 3 points off one Spartan turnover, but Michigan State couldn't score off one Michigan miscue.
Offense could only gain 362 net yards, but rushed for 276 yards; they were 7 of 16 in 3rd and 4th down conversions with 20 first downs. Bryce Underwood hit 8 of 17 passes for 86 yards, and ran 5 times for 26 yards and a TD; he also recovered a high snap deep in Wolverine territory that saved a turnover. Justice Haynes ran 26 times for 152 yards and 2 TDs, and caught 3 passes for 19 yards; he also fumbled for a turnover. Jordan Marshall ran 15 times for 110 yards and a TD. Semaj Morgan ran a reverse for 6 yards. Andrew Marsh caught 3 passes for 54 yards. Donoven McCulley caught one 9 yard pass. Marlin Klein caught a 4 yard pass. Jordan Hall led the Spartan defense with 9 tackles, but he left the game in the 3rd quarter with an injury.
Defense forced the Spartans into five "three and outs;" however, they gave up 305 net yards with 115 on the ground. We forced Michigan State into 7 punts, and gave up 18 first downs; the Spartans converted 6 of 19 in 3rd and 4th down. Makhi Frazier ran 14 times for 109 yards. Aidan Chiles hit 14 of 28 for 130 yards, but ran 15 times for -7 yards after 4 sacks and a TD. Nick Marsh caught 6 passes for 75 yards. Michigan held a 1 minute time of possession advantage, but the Spartans ran 6 more offensive plays. Jimmy Rolder led the Wolverine defense with 10 tackles including a sack, a fumble recovery, a pass deflection, and a big 4th down stop.
Special Teams were good! Hudson Hollenback punted 6 times for a 48.0 yard average with one downed inside the 20. Dominic Zvada hit a 21 yard field goal. Characteristically, Michigan State had 12 penalties for 105 yards.
Bring on the Boilermakers! Go Blue!
