Colston Loveland’s two touchdown catches and a successful 2-point conversion propelled Michigan to a 24-17 victory over Michigan State on Saturday night.
As the clock wound down, tensions flared on the field, reminiscent of a previous altercation in the tunnel between these fierce rivals.
The Wolverines (5-3, 3-2 Big Ten) broke a two-game losing streak, securing a vital win that boosts their chances of a bowl game under the guidance of first-year coach Sherrone Moore.
Michigan State (4-4, 2-3) showcased a strong start, amassing 130 yards and holding the ball for over 13 minutes during their initial drives, yet only managed to score once.
Aidan Chiles’ fumble late in the first half shifted momentum to Michigan, allowing them to take a 9-7 lead at halftime.
Chiles later redeemed himself, connecting with freshman receiver Nick Marsh for a 20-yard touchdown pass with just over six minutes remaining.
With two minutes on the clock, Chiles guided the Spartans to the Michigan 16, but a fourth-and-5 pass fell incomplete in the end zone.
Despite their promising start, Michigan State squandered key opportunities throughout the game.
On their opening possession, the Spartans reached the Michigan 2-yard line but were penalized for a delay of game, leading to a failed field-goal attempt.
Nathan Carter finally put Michigan State on the board with a 2-yard touchdown run, giving them an early 7-0 lead.
In contrast, Michigan struggled initially, gaining only 37 yards in their first three possessions before igniting their offense with a no-huddle strategy.
Davis Warren orchestrated a 10-play, 64-yard drive, culminating in a 10-yard touchdown pass to Loveland.
Shortly after, a forced fumble by Josaiah Stewart set up a 37-yard field goal by Dominic Zvada, giving Michigan a 12-7 lead at halftime.
Michigan extended their lead with a clever trick play, where running back Donovan Edwards threw a 23-yard touchdown pass to Loveland, who also caught a 2-point conversion, pushing the score to 24-10.
The second half saw Michigan State’s Jordan Turner ejected for targeting, adding to the Spartans’ challenges, while Michigan played without their star cornerback Will Johnson due to injury.
THE TAKEAWAY
For Michigan State, first-year coach Jonathan Smith may reflect on missed opportunities that could have changed the game’s outcome. The Spartans had a chance to take control early but fell short after Chiles’ fumble allowed Michigan to seize the lead.
Meanwhile, Michigan, the defending national champions, improved their postseason prospects. They will need to secure a win against Northwestern at home to reach the six-win mark, especially with formidable opponents like top-ranked Oregon, No. 13 Indiana, and No. 4 Ohio State still on the schedule.
UP NEXT
Next, the Wolverines will host the top-ranked Oregon Ducks, while the Spartans face No. 13 Indiana at home on Saturday.
