Nebraska defeated Michigan State 31-13 in a Big Ten showdown, with the Huskers’ defense dominating and the offense showcasing explosive potential, though penalties and special teams issues lingered.
Nebraska’s 31-13 victory over Michigan State marked a significant step in the Huskers’ bid for Big Ten dominance, with the defense emerging as a key strength and the offense displaying explosive capability. The win, their fourth straight, improved Nebraska to 4-0 for the first time since 2016, while Michigan State fell to 2-2. The game, played in East Lansing, Mich., was the first Big Ten contest for both teams, with Nebraska entering 1-0 in the conference and Michigan State 0-1.
Defensive Improvement and Turnovers Define the Game
Michigan State’s defense, meanwhile, failed to generate a sack or turnover, a stark contrast to Nebraska’s aggressive approach.
Five Things We Learned in Nebraska's 31-13 Rout of
Offense Shows Explosive Potential
Nebraska’s offense, led by quarterback Anthony Colandrea, totaled 12 plays of 10-plus yards, including nine in the first half. Colandrea passed for 212 yards and two touchdowns, with Vincent Genatone scoring twice. The Huskers also controlled the clock, with two fourth-quarter drives lasting 10+ plays each, consuming 11:59 of the final quarter. The first drive, a 12-play, 66-yard march that took 6:22 off the clock, ended in a touchdown, while the second, an 11-play, 71-yard drive that consumed 5:37, extended the lead to 31-13. Mekhi Nelson rushed for 61 yards and a touchdown, while Kwazi Gilmer caught three passes for 63 yards, including a 44-yard score.
Cornhuskers coach Matt Rhule praised his team’s performance, saying, It's a great first step.
However, the offense struggled with consistency, averaging 3.8 yards per rush and converting 55.5% of passing attempts. The Huskers’ offensive struggles were highlighted by a 48-yard field goal by Michigan State’s Liam Boyd in the first quarter, which gave the Spartans a 3-0 lead before Nebraska responded with a 44-yard touchdown pass from Colandrea to Gilmer.
Michigan State commits 3 turnovers in 31-13 Big Ten
Penalties and Special Teams Struggles
Nebraska’s 27 penalties for 235 yards through four games raised concerns, with the team averaging 6.75 infractions per game. The penalties included a holding call that nullified a punt block, prolonging Nebraska’s first touchdown drive. The special teams unit also underperformed, with a decision to kick to former Husker Kenneth Williams four times resulting in 63 return yards. The Spartans’ penalties, including a personal foul that facilitated Nebraska’s second touchdown drive, contributed to their first-half deficit.
Injury Sets Back Michigan State
Michigan State’s top running back, Cam Edwards, suffered a right leg injury in the first quarter, forcing him to leave the game. Edwards was upended near the Spartans’ sideline by defensive back Denny Odem III after a 23-yard pass play. Fitzgerald didn’t have an update on Edwards’ injury afterward, as the senior transfer from UConn will require more testing, with Milivojevic adding, Just praying for a fast recovery for him.
Edwards returned to the field later in the first half on crutches with a large brace covering his knee.
Huskers hit the road as Nebraska faces Michigan State
The injury disrupted Michigan State’s offensive rhythm, contributing to their first-half deficit. Despite a 48-yard field goal by Liam Boyd and a 2-yard touchdown by Jaziun Patterson, the Spartans could not overcome Nebraska’s defensive pressure. Michigan State’s offense, which managed only 13 points, struggled to generate consistent drives, with quarterback Alessio Milivojevic passing for 208 yards.
What’s Next for Both Teams
Nebraska will host Maryland next Saturday, while Michigan State travels to Wisconsin. The Huskers’ defense will need to maintain its intensity, while the Spartans must address their penalties and injury concerns. The Cornhuskers’ stout defense offset a spotty offensive performance, but the team’s ability to control the clock and force turnovers suggests they are a legitimate Big Ten contender.
The outcome of the game highlighted Nebraska's emergence in the Big Ten, with the Huskers' defense playing a key role in their 31-13 victory. The Spartans, despite their struggles, remain with a 2-2 record and a chance to improve their standing in upcoming matchups.