Prior to kickoff, there was one positive on MSU’s availability report, as Jack Velling’s name did not appear. D’Quan Douse was listed as questionable, and did play, while Wayne Matthews and most of the secondary players with significant experience remained out.
The Spartans young secondary and defense would be forced to hold up to a stiff test again, as Rutgers quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis was supported by a strong running game led by Kyle Monangai. This combination worked to perfection for Rutgers as the Scarlet Knights scored 34 unanswered points after falling behind 7-0. MSU didn’t get much help from their offense again as the game changed on a failed fourth and 1 inside the Rutgers 10.