Michigan State falls short in the Big House.

Michigan State and Michigan’s football teams collided to write another chapter in their hostile in-state rivalry. The Spartans came in to this game looking to snap a four-game losing streak. Michigan dominated their opponents in their last two games against Notre Dame and Maryland.

MSU came off the bus in Ann Arbor with their helmets on and ready to play. They were the underdogs in this game and looked to upset the Wolverines. The Spartans scored the first touchdown near the end of the first quarter. Then, the wheels came off of the MSU defense. Michigan scored 24 unanswered points to take a 24-7 lead in the third quarter. Michigan State was no match for Michigan as the Wolverines ran away with a 44-10 win, destroying MSU. 

Michigan quarterback Shea Patterson had a great day throwing the pigskin. He threw for 384 yards and four touchdowns. His main target, wide receiver Ronnie Bell, had nine catches for 150 yards for Michigan. Although Bell didn’t have any touchdown catches, he proved to be a valuable asset in the win on Saturday. 

This game had a lot of tension as well. There was a total of 16 penalty flags thrown across both teams. Michigan State defensive end Jacub Panasiuk was ejected from the game in the second half when he received a roughing the passer penalty.

Michigan State has struggled all year on offense. They only had 220 total yards compared to 467 total yards by Michigan. Another significant factor in their loss is that MSU went 2/13 on third down conversions. Michigan went 8/13 on third down conversions which allowed them to extend drives, and ultimately dominate MSU. 

Michigan State (4-6) has to win both of their games remaining, against Rutgers and Maryland, to become bowl eligible. Michigan (8-2) can get to a 10 win season, but Indiana and hated rival Ohio State stand in their way.