The Green Machine keeps on rolling.
Michigan State football moves into elite conversation after defeating the Illini 26-6 on Saturday. It wasn’t the prettiest game early in the first half, mainly because Illinois’ defense was in full swing and it did a job on the Spartans.
But they adjusted in the second half, breathing some life into the run game and getting the receivers involved.
Initially, both defenses came out in a big way. Near the end of the first quarter, Illinois had to settle for a field goal after three unsuccessful tries at the end zone. Michigan State tied it later in the second quarter after failing in the red zone themselves. Another field goal by Illinois would put them ahead going into the half, MSU trailing at halftime for the first time this season.
But things would look up for the Spartans in the second half. They intercepted Illinois and got themselves in range for a 34-yard field goal that evened the score from Mr. Perfect, sophomore kicker Dan Conroy. Next possession, Michigan State quarterback Kirk Cousins hit wide receiver B.J. Cunningham in the end zone for a 48 yard touchdown to put the Spartans on top 13-6.
On their next possession off of an Illinois fumble, they got Conroy in range again and he sent a 32-yarder straight down the middle. Next possession, they got Conroy in range again for an 18-yard field goal to go up 19-6.
Not long after, Michigan State picked off Illinois quarterback Nathan Sheelhaase and that led to Michigan State’s second touchdown by running back Larry Caper. This put the Spartans up three scores and they never looked back. The running game took a while to come alive because Illinois was working on eliminating it, but Sparty wasn’t phased. Sheelhaase threw three interceptions to the Spartan defense.
Michigan State would finish with only 93 total rushing yards — their lowest output of the season. But Cousins and the offense made up for that in a big way with 201 total passing yards. Cousins himself went 13-24 and threw no interceptions. B.J. Cunningham and senior wide receiver Mark Dell practically saved the day, combining for 138 of the 201 receiving yards.
Larry Caper and Edwin Baker led the rushing attack, combining for 15 carries, 60 yards and a touchdown from Caper. Le’Veon Bell contributed as well with 10 carries and 13 yards. Caper averaged just over five yards per carry.
Next week the Spartans will travel outside the state of Michigan for the first time this season to take on Northwestern. The Wildcats always play the Spartans tough and they’re looking to become bowl eligible too. The Wildcats will have to bring everything they have to the table to beat Michigan State, who are looking for their first Big Ten Title in 20 years.
The LG Blog 