The secondary is still a big problem area for the Spartans.
A pair of pass interference penalties on Michigan State defensive back Tyson Smith, and blown coverage from MSU corner Chris Frey, led to a 16-yard touchdown pass from Illinois quarterback Jeff George, Jr. to Sam Mays.
Late in the fourth quarter, Illinois has a 31-27 lead. Time is quickly running out for Michigan State.
Spartans retake lead in 4Q
On fourth-and-4, Damion Terry's 13-yard touchdown pass to R.J. Shelton, and enusing extra point, put Michigan State ahead 27-24 late in the fourth quarter.