The Spartans entered the rivalry matchup as 14.5-point underdogs, but don't tell Pat Fitzgerald and Michigan State.
Michigan State has come out swinging against its in-state rival, taking a 6-0 lead into halftime behind an impressive defensive performance, some gutsy playcalling and a couple of clutch drives late in the half.
Let's get right into the action.
Michigan State's opening drive showed just how much pressure the Wolverines' defensive front would bring. Quarterback Alessio Milivojevic did a good job getting the ball out of his hands despite facing pressure throughout the drive. Samson Gash hauled in a big four-yard catch to move the chains, and the Spartans even took a shot downfield to Bryson Williams. However, with two defenders in the area, Williams couldn't come down with the contested catch, and Michigan State was forced to punt.
The Spartans' defense wasted little time making its presence felt. Devin Vaught, whom Fitzgerald has referred to as "the quarterback of the defense," came up with a huge interception to give Michigan State the ball at Michigan's 49-yard line.
Unfortunately, the Spartans couldn't capitalize. After moving the ball just eight yards, Fitzgerald's...