Michigan State got back into the red zone on its first drive of the second half. However, the Spartans were forced to settle for a 28-yard field goal from Michael Geiger, his third of the day, putting MSU back ahead, 9-7 early in the third quarter.
Tyler O'Connor had a couple big plays on the drive, completing a 47-yard pass-and-catch to Donnie Corley and a 10-yard pass to R.J. Shelton that put the Spartans at the Illinois 16-yard-line. However, Josiah Price dropped a sure touchdown pass two plays before MSU settled for the field goal.
Halftime: Illinois 7, MSU 6
As has been its problem most of the year, Michigan State took an early first half lead only to see it disappear.