Michigan State crushed Northwestern 31-10. This game got better with time for Spartan fans. The offense was rocky in the first half, but, improved in the second half. All the while, MSU’s defense continues to dominate opponents. Here are three key takeaways from this game:
Mark Dantonio Makes History
Plenty has been written and said about coach Mark Dantonio. Especially as he tied Hugh “Duffy” Daugherty with all-time wins at 109. Now, Dantonio has made history. He is the most winningest coach in MSU football history and broke the program record for wins. This victory over Northwestern gives him 110 wins across his Spartan career. His legacy is nowhere near done, but, this is a moment of celebration for Dantonio.
Brian Lewerke Provides Hope
QB Brian Lewerke has been a rollercoaster so far this season, but, he really stepped up in the third quarter against Northwestern. He trimmed down on inaccurate passes and sloppy mistakes. Instead, he hit receivers in stride and put up 228 yards, three touchdowns, and zero interceptions against a good Wildcats defense. Even the announcers felt this performance could have a lasting effect on his confidence and that of the entire team.
Offense Trending In The Right Direction
The Spartans offense primarily relies on three heavy hitters: RB Elijah Collins, and WR’s Darrell Stewart and Cody White. Each player had their own offensive showcase against the Wildcats, however, another player stepped up. TE Matt Seybert put up two touchdowns for Michigan State.
Cody White had multiple plays where he broke away from tight coverage. White had four receptions for 70 yards and a touchdown. Elijah Collins put up his second touchdown of the year against Northwestern. He kept his feet moving and chopped through a blockade of lineman. Darrell Stewart was not as loud against the Wildcats as other opponents, but, he had some impressive plays. He hauled in five receptions for a total of 77 yards.
Defense Taking Care Of Business
Per usual, MSU’s defense came to play. In particular, Joe Bachie went crazy. He tallied up a career-high 14 total tackles, smothering the Northwestern offense. Bachie even had an interception in the fourth quarter. CB Josiah Scott had a sick leaping interception. Likewise, DE Drew Beesley snagged a deflection for a crucial interception.
This was a defensive showcase for MSU as they kept Northwestern out of the endzone all game. No doubt that the Spartan Dawgs on defense will continue this type of dominance.
Next up, Michigan State welcomes Indiana to East Lansing on Saturday, Sept. 28. Catch this game on the Big Ten Network at 3:30 P.M.
