Michigan State defeated Michigan 15-6 on Saturday night at Michigan Stadium, in a game where the 2-6 Spartans outclassed the 5-3 Wolverines, si.com reported.
The victory hinged on three stark statistical disparities that defined the matchup, illustrating a shocking all-around contest in Ann Arbor.
38:07 Time of Possession and Offense
Despite entering the game with statistically the most dreadful offense among all Power Four teams and facing a Michigan defense ranked No. 3 in the nation, Michigan State dominated possession. Each team got 11 drives, excluding MSU’s final kneel-downs. The Spartans secured at least one first down in all but one drive, averaging about seven plays per possession.
The centerpiece of the time of possession advantage was a 17-play, 79-yard field-goal drive in the third quarter that started at the one-yard line and drained 10:41 off the clock, stretching Michigan State’s lead to two scores. Although the Spartans scored no touchdowns, quarterback Alessio Milivojevic celebrated with fans after the 15-6 win alongside a dominant defensive performance that made touchdowns unnecessary.
Four Forced Turnovers
Entering rivalry week tied for the fewest takeaways in the Power Four with only five on the year, Michigan State forced four turnovers against the Wolverines. NiJhay Burt catalyzed two takeaways by forcing a fumble and intercepting a deep 50/50 ball. Rush end Anelu Lafaele also forced a fumble that Nikai Martinez recovered, while safety Devin Vaught added an interception before exiting due to an early injury.
Over 14 Players Out Due to Injury
The upset victory was achieved despite Michigan State listing 14 different players as out on its game-day report, with injuries heavily impacting key contributors such as Cam Edwards, Jaziun Patterson, Jayden Savoury, Ben Roberts, and Jordan Hall.
Four of the team’s five questionable players managed to suit up, though in-game injuries continued when Vaught re-emerged on the sideline in street clothes and starting wide receiver Rodney Bullard Jr. left the contest. Head coach Pat Fitzgerald noted that he has not witnessed an injury situation quite like this during his career.
