MSU (4-6, 2-5 Big Ten) aims to break that streak this Friday against Purdue, a program experiencing an even bigger slide. The Boilermakers haven't won since their first game against Indiana State, an FBS school, ranked last and winless in the Big Ten.

While the Spartans’ season hasn't lived up to many expectations, they will be favored at home Friday with a chance to win out and become bowl eligible. 

MSU had potential to gain ground from last season after starting 3-0 and — while losing — showing flashes of potential against Ohio State and Oregon. But uninspiring losses to Michigan, Indiana and Illinois clouded that early promise. The Spartans have been inconsistent from game to game. Progress is not linear, MSU defensive coordinator Joe Rossi said after practice Tuesday.

"There’s peaks and valleys, and as you go through the peaks and valleys, the goal is to be climbing the whole time," Rossi said.

In the first half of the season, MSU struggled to turn red zone opportunities into touchdowns, or any points in some cases, frequently turning it over or setting back drives with penalties. Against Illinois, that hardship shifted to third downs for MSU's offense.

MSU offensive coordinator Brian Lindgren said while he's had ups and downs, sophomore quarterback Aidan Chiles has shown overall growth as a player.

"I think he shown improvement in the pocket," Lindgren said.

Another positive is Chiles’ ability to run and make plays with his legs, Lindgren said. Earlier in the season, he often scrambled too quickly but has since developed more composure and willingness to create. 

Despite his youth, MSU freshman wideout Nick Marsh has demonstrated his fit as an explosive playmaker at the Big Ten level and has continued to show progression.

MSU has been experimenting to see which schemes work best in specific situations. However, injuries throughout the season have brought the staff challenges when toying with personnel. 

MSU will face Purdue at Spartan Stadium this Friday, Nov. 22, at 8 p.m. FOX will air the game.