The Spartans most likely knew they would be handicapped days before the Offerpad Arizona Bowl game took place and it showed.
Key players and coaches tested positive with COVID - from defenders Tre Jenkins to All-American defensive lineman Cade Hall to star receiver Bailey Gaither to key offensive linemen Kyle Hoppe and Tyler Stevens, including the offensive and defensive brain trusts in coordinators Kevin McGiven and Derrick Odum.
Dealing with obvious pre-game doubts well before the game carried heavily into the game. Subdued players and lack of the normal vibe and energy was clear to the national TV audience.