Back to the Michigan State Spartans Newsfeed

Michigan State football's defense was 'able to figure it out' and make the stop

Breaking down Michigan State's excruciating 19-16 win over Maryland, and what it means going forward, Nov. 30, 2019. Chris Solari and Graham Couch, Detroit Free Press

EAST LANSING — Twice this season, Michigan State’s defense has had a simple objective: Get one stop at Spartan Stadium and celebrate a victory.

Both times, on Sept. 14 against Arizona State and Nov. 9 against Illinois, the Spartans allowed winning touchdowns in the final minute.

So when Maryland took over at its own 42-yard line with 2:05 remaining, the feeling was familiar. The defense knew one stop would take the team to its 12th bowl game in 13 seasons under coach Mark Dantonio.