Revitalized run game

MSU’s run game has been non-existent throughout the team’s four game losing streak. Running backs fifth-year Jarek Broussard and redshirt sophomore Jalen Berger usually split carries at the position, but redshirt senior Elijah Collins has been getting more playing time recently.

After a slow start that saw the run game once again reduced to irrelevancy, the Spartans decided to change it up and put Collins in. He ran for eight yards on his first carry, and then for another five to get the first down. After a three-and-out possession to start the game, Collins’ play made all the difference in changing momentum.

Berger then began to match Collins with some big carries of his own, including three straight carries for 14 yards to move the Spartans down the field. Although the Spartans were unable to capitalize on that drive, Berger was able to take it to the house on the next drive on a 12-yard carry to tie the game at 7-7. 

Collins' role as a leader in the running back room continues to become more apparent as he not only gets the job done when he’s called in, but his play on the field is consistently inspiring others to step up as well.

Momentum changing interception

Senior linebacker Jacoby Windmon is proving he really can do it all. After switching to the defensive line to start the season, the veteran is proving he can not only block, but also has incredible field vision. 

After the Spartans were unable to convert on fourth and goal, stopping any and all offensive momentum in the first quarter, the Badgers got the ball at their own two yard line to begin their drive.

Windmon was able to pick up on where Wisconsin quarterback Graham Mertz was going to throw and picked him off, giving the Spartans an incredible opportunity for a scoring play. The offense, looking for redemption, headed out to the field ready to go.

Redshirt junior quarterback Payton Thorne handed the ball off to Berger who ran it to the end zone to tie the game towards the end of the first quarter and keep Spartan spirits high.

Penalties and defensive injuries adding up

It’s getting harder and harder to keep up with the injuries and lineup changes within Spartan defense.

The first half of today’s matchup saw the return of redshirt senior defensive tackle Jacob Slade and fifth-year safety Xavier Henderson who both have been out multiple games with injuries. Despite their return, the defense still is without freshman safety Jaden Mangham, senior defensive end Khris Bogle and junior defensive end Jeff Pietrowski Jr. who all remain sidelined with injuries. Senior cornerback Kendell Brooks has also sat out of today's contest.

While injuries have not been kind to the Spartans, neither have penalties. In just the first half they had six penalties equating to 67 yards, including a targeting call. Redshirt junior defensive end Michael Fletcher was ejected in the second quarter on that call, making him unavailable for the rest of the game.