Mark Dantonio Says Spartans Ran Up The Score Because Michigan Players Planted Spear In Michigan State Field

Michigan State absolutely dominated rival Michigan on Saturday afternoon, but drove down the field and scored a touchdown with under a minute left, pushing the final score to 35-11.

Many accused Spartans head coach Mark Dantonio of running up the score, which he confirmed after game, claiming he did it because Michigan players drove a stake into the field before the game.

Here you have it. The stake that now is in rivalry lore. RT @zimme1me: @joerexrode pic.twitter.com/SQQzqDPMZr

— Mike Wilson (@MikeWScout) October 26, 2014

MSU quarterback Connor Cook on the spear/stake planted by Michigan: "They disrespected us right out of the gate. We weren't having that." — Dan Murphy (@DanMurphyESPN) October 26, 2014

Dantonio on final touchdown: "It just felt like we needed to put a stake in them."

— Dan Murphy (@DanMurphyESPN) October 25, 2014

"Them putting a spear in a field before the game is not a product of their team but their program." - Dantonio on the UofM Pregame spear.

— Rico Beard (@RicoBeard) October 25, 2014

Michigan head coach Brady Hoke said he was aware of the spear situation, but not "fully aware".