Michigan State pulled off the upset against Ohio State. (Getty)
Final Score
9 Michigan State 0-7-0-10 — 17
3 Ohio State 0-7-7-0 — 14
Box Score
Michigan State did what few people expected. The Spartans went into Columbus with their backup quarterback and upset Ohio State 17-14.
The Spartans won the game in the trenches as they controlled the ball and prevented the explosive Ohio State offense from doing anything. Michael Geiger was the hero of the game after he kicked the game-winning 41-yard field goal.
The victory means Michigan State will likely face Iowa in the Big Ten championship in two weeks. The Spartans did not ask backup quarterback Tyler O’Connor to win the game, but he managed it admirably. He finished the game 7-of-12 for 89 yards and one touchdown. Ohio State’s J.T. Barrett was only able to throw for 46 yards in the game.
Here is how Michigan State pulled off the upset:
The Spartans Pulled off the Upset on a Field Goal
Michigan State kicker Michael Geiger pulled off this 41-yard field goal as time expired to give the Spartans the upset victory. Michigan State got one final stop and was able to get the ball back late in the fourth quarter. They ran the clock down on a methodical drive to set up Geiger’s field goal.
Michigan State Tied the Game 14-14
The Spartans responded in the fourth quarter with this short touchdown run. The Spartans showed incredible toughness and a stout defense throughout the game.
Ohio State Took the Lead With a J.T. Barrett Touchdown Pass
The Buckeyes took a 14-7 lead in the third quarter. Barrett’s short touchdown pass gave the Buckeyes the lead.
Michigan State Responded With a Touchdown
O’Connor found his fullback who reached toward the pylon for the touchdown. The scored tied the game up 7-7 midway through the 2nd quarter.
Ezekiel Elliott Scored First Touchdown of the Game
The Buckeyes recovered a fumble and got points off the turnover. The Buckeyes were stopped at the goalline on three straight plays. They decided to go for it on third down and found the endzone on this short run by Elliott.
Connor Cook Did Not Get the Start for Michigan State
He warmed up, but Connor Cook is out against No. 3 Ohio State.
Despite insisting all week that he would be good to go, Cook did not start the game at quarterback for Michigan State. Connor has an injured shoulder and took part in pre-game warmups. He evidently did not display enough health to be cleared to play. Tyler O’Connor got the start for the Spartans.
