We'll keep this short and get to the celebration. First order of business:
A few bullets:
- Physicality: Michigan made an issue of physicality in the lead up to this game, declaring they wouldn't be bullied in East Lansing, as they were 2 years ago. The Spartan defense physically dominated the Wolverines, holding them to a ridiculous -48 yards rushing and recording 7 sacks and numerous other TFLs.
- Poise: Although Michigan stacked the box to make Connor Cook beat them, he kept his cool and, other than an interception in the second half, which the defense bailed him out of in the most ferocious manner imaginable, he played well enough to secure the win. He finished 18-33 for 252 yards and a beautiful touchdown to Bennie Fowler at the close of the first half.
- Flipping the narrative: Mark Dantonio has completely changed the character of this matchup after the dark days of John L. Smith and Bobby Williams. This makes 5 MSU wins in the last 6 meetings. Enjoy what may have been the most dominant of them.