Recap: On The Road, But Not Really

I was on Mackinac Island over the weekend, so I didn't see much of the first half, although I did catch the second at a bar. So, this recap is going to mostly be notable bullet points.

The Good:

The defense - The unit pitched a shutout, as CMU's only points came on MSU's second pick-six allowed this season. The defense has allowed just six points this season, and those points came on Boise State drives that started inside MSU's 30-yard line. The Chippewas had 245 total yards, including 3.3 yards per rush and 4.6 per attempt and three turnovers. Will Gholston recorded MSU's first and only sack of the season, but CMU quarterback Ryan Radcliff was knocked down many times. Gholston also had two QB hurries, two tackles for loss and a pass breakup.

Andrew Maxwell - Started off slow and had a few timing issues, but he finished 20-for-31 for 275 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions. Still needs to learn how to put some more touch on his throws, but this passing offense could be really good once the timing gets fixed.

The lack of Le'Veon Bell - He didn't have a big game (18 carries, 70 yards, 2 TDs), but they kept the carries down and got him out of the game healthy. That's all that mattered.

Experience for the young guys - Mark Dantonio said 65 of 70 guys who traveled saw some playing time. I didn't get burinng the redshirts of Aaron Burbridge and Macgarrett Kings. Don't be surprised if they get injured this season (wink wink). Ten different players caught passes.

CMU fans - By most accounts, the tailgating before the game was great, and a packed student section is always fun to see. I don't blame them for leaving early.

CMU jerseys - Those were pretty sharp. Adidas finally made a good one.

The Bad:

Um, let's see...

That one Connor Cook throw - Not one of Cook's six throws hit the ground. He went 5-for-6 with the pick-six.

ESPNU - CMU sets up the TV because they're the home team, but it's disappointing they couldn't get it on a better channel. From what I could find, only one bar on Mackinac Island could get the MSU game. I got a few comments on Twitter from people who didn't have ESPNU, either. I have it at home and love the channel's programming, but I feel bad for teams that have games on there.

CMU fans (or not fans) - I've certainly ripped MSU fans for empty spots in Spartan Stadium before, and numerous people said there were enough seats still to be had at Kelly/Shorts. Based on the listed attendance of 35,127, it would appear many ticket-holders didn't make it inside, which is unfortunate. Also, there were reports that garbage was thrown at Le'Veon Bell on one of his touchdowns. That's not cool, bro.

We'll have some more-detailed breakdowns later in the week from the numbers guys. My Freep column will be up Monday, where I lay out the expectations moving forward. (Hint: They're very high).