Michigan State was dominant at times during its 31-20 win over Central Michigan on Saturday, and the score belies how well the Spartans played at times.

Still, the Spartans aren’t where they like to be just yet and they are a banged-up bunch, especially across the offensive line.

Here’s what I liked — and didn’t like — about the win over Central Michigan:

What I liked

Brian Lewerke figures out what works

Michigan State quarterback Brian Lewerke is a grinder, and he finds a way to win. And even though he’s been less than perfect so far this season, he’s a gamer. He helped Michigan State score 31 unanswered points during this game, and he scored two touchdowns with his legs, running it in twice. He threw another interception, his fifth of the season, and that’s still an issue, but he’s a leader and he found another way to get it done.

Defense was stellar for most of the way

When you’re reeling off 31 straight points, it’s because the defense is making stops over and over too. The score is somewhat deceiving because of the late Central Michigan points, but during most of this game, Michigan State’s defense was unbending. Now it just needs to get done for 60 minutes as the opposition get tougher.

La’Darius Jefferson steps up in a big way

I’ve been looking forward to La’Darius Jefferson getting his chance in the backfield, and the true freshman delivered on Saturday, rushing for 56 yards on 13 carries and scoring his first college touchdown. With LJ Scott, still banged up and the offensive line riddled with injuries, it was important for someone to step up and make some plays. Jefferson did just that. The Columbia, Miss., native has a bright future.

What I didn’t like

Failing to finish by allowing 17 points in the fourth

Maybe it doesn’t matter, because a win is a win after all, but it was disconcerting to see Central Michigan attempt to make a miracle comeback. CMU scored 17 points and benefited from recovering an onside kick as well. Seal the deal, guys, and don’t let people hang around.

Tough to run with all these injuries

Michigan State averaged just 3.4 yards per carry. That’s not good, but there are reasons, of course. LJ Scott is still out and the offensive line is a mess, with injuries decimating the unit at practically every position. Northwestern awaits next week before the big showdowns with Penn State and Michigan, and this group  really needs to get healthy by then.