Spartans Force Turnovers, Clinch Title

LINCOLN, Nebraska – Nebraska was the only Big Ten opponent Michigan State had never defeated going into Saturday’s matchup between the top two teams in the Legends Division.

But not anymore, as the Spartans topped the Cornhuskers by a score of 41-28 this afternoon.

In a game where Michigan State’s offense struggled out of the gates again, the defense stepped up to give them a much-needed boost. They forced three fumbles and one interception in the first half alone, for a total of five turnovers on the day. They led 20-7 going into the break.

The Spartans’ offense benefitted greatly from the good field position that came from turnovers.

The Huskers would not go down easily though, as they scored two big touchdowns in the third quarter to make it 27-21 going into the final 15 minutes.

Perhaps the key play of the game came early in the fourth quarter, when the Spartans converted a fourth and one on a fake field goal, with punter Mike Sadler keeping the snap and carrying it for three yards.  The Spartans completed the drive with a Connor Cook strike to Keith Mumphery for a 27-yard touchdown.

Jeremy Langford had his fifth straight 100-yard rushing game, rushing for 151 yards and three touchdowns.

This road win puts Michigan State at 9-1 overall on the season and 6-0 in Big Ten play.  They also clinch at least a share of the Legends Division title.

Dan Tyler is the host of Spartan Red Zone for Impact Sports.

Photo: Michigan State Athletics