Michigan State Outlasts Maryland in High-Scoring Affair: Spartans Win 38-28
Recap of Maryland vs Michigan State (28-38). Game highlights, key performances, and analysis.
Michigan State Outlasts Maryland in High-Scoring Affair: Spartans Win 38-28
The Michigan State Spartans emerged victorious over the Maryland Terrapins in a thrilling regular season contest, with a final score of **Michigan State 38, Maryland 28**. The game was a showcase of offensive firepower, with both teams racking up significant yardage through the air.
Key Individual Performances
The quarterback duel between Malik Washington of Maryland and Alessio Milivojevic of Michigan State was a highlight of the game. Washington put up impressive numbers, throwing for 459 yards and three touchdowns on 38 of 61 passing attempts. Milivojevic countered with a strong performance of his own, completing 27 of 39 passes for 292 yards and four touchdowns.
In the rushing game, Elijah Tau-Tolliver led the Spartans with 95 yards on the ground. For Maryland, DeJuan Williams was the leading rusher with 52 yards and a touchdown.
The receiving corps saw several standout performances. Shaleak Knotts of Maryland had a big day, catching eight passes for 139 yards and a touchdown. Teammate Jalil Farooq also had a strong showing, hauling in 10 receptions for 110 yards and two touchdowns. Nick Marsh led Michigan State’s receiving efforts with 85 yards and a touchdown, while Omari Kelly contributed 76 yards and a touchdown.
Defensively, Jalen Huskey of Maryland recorded nine tackles to lead his team. Aydan West, Malcolm Bell, Malik Spencer, and Wayne Matthews III each contributed significantly to the Spartans' defensive efforts.
Turning Points
Several key plays swung the momentum of the game. In the second quarter, a 46-yard pass from Alessio Milivojevic to Omari Kelly, followed by a personal foul penalty on Maryland, set up a scoring opportunity for Michigan State. In the third quarter, a 92-yard kickoff return for a touchdown by A. Brown for Michigan State, significantly boosted the Spartans' score. Also, in the third quarter, DeJuan Williams of Maryland broke off a 40-yard run, keeping the Terrapins in the game. In the fourth quarter, a 47-yard completion from Malik Washington to Shaleak Knotts kept Maryland's hopes alive. However, Michigan State answered with a 38-yard run by Elijah Tau-Tolliver in the fourth quarter. These significant plays were crucial in shaping the game's outcome.
Looking Ahead
Both the Maryland Terrapins and the Michigan State Spartans will look to build on their performances. Maryland's offense, led by Malik Washington and their talented receiving core, will need to improve their consistency. Michigan State, with a balanced attack, will hope to continue their success. Both teams will aim to address defensive weaknesses and capitalize on offensive opportunities as they prepare for their next contests.