Final Score: Maryland 20, No. 7 Michigan State 40

Brief Recap: Maryland’s attempt to get to bowl eligibility – and secure a big upset  – began running out of steam in the second half. Despite giving up 27 points in the first half and falling behind 27-7, the Terrapins entered the break down just 13 points. Mike Locksley’s squad even had a chance to cut into that lead in the third quarter. Unfortunately, a costly turnover by Taulia Tagovailoa ended that drive and the momentum. The Spartans turned that takeaway into 6 points to turn things around.

For the game, Tagovailoa did finish with over 300 yards passing and 2 touchdowns, but he also provided some costly miscues. It was his interception on the goal line that gave away a scoring chance and momentum, and Tagovailoa was also flagged for multiple intentional grounding penalties. One of those came on 3rd-and-goal from the 2-yard line and ended up leading to a 41-yard field goal attempt. That kick was wide of the uprights as Michigan State recorded another crucial stop on a scoring opportunity.

Once the game turned to the 4th quarter, the Spartans were quick to put the finishing touches on the win. Michigan State’s defense forced a turnover on downs while Kenneth Walker III ripped off another long run on the ensuing possession. It would set up a short TD for Walker as Michigan State hit 40 points and rolled to the finish line.

Key Player: For the Spartans, it was the 2-headed attack of Walker and wide receiver Jayden Reed. Both players recorded 2 scores in the win and were matchup nightmares for the Terrapins. Walker led the way on the ground with 143 yards rushing and 2 scores while adding 29 yards receiving. Reed recorded 8 catches for 114 yards and 2 touchdowns.

Key Moment: Even with Tagovailoa’s interception near the goal line, the big mistake and potentially game-changing moment came on a later drive. Down 13 points and with a chance to make it a one-possession game, Tagovailoa was flagged for intentional grounding facing 3rd-and-goal from the 2. The 41-yard field goal attempt never had a chance. Maryland would not get close enough again to score with Michigan State adding a 4th-quarter score to put the game out of reach.

Key Stat: Third-down conversions. Maryland gained over 400 yards of total offense and had opportunities to score, but a 3-for-13 mark on third downs doomed the offense. On the other side of the ball, Michigan State went 8-for-13 on third downs to sustain drives and keep things rolling along.

What it means for Maryland: The Terrapins fall to 5-5 and are still looking for a 6th win to get to a bowl. Things do not get easier in Week 12 with another top-10 team in Michigan and then a season-ending matchup with Rutgers.

What it means for Michigan State: Despite the upset loss to Purdue, everything is still in front of the Spartans, though the task remains big. A road trip to Columbus awaits in Week 12, and Mel Tucker’s squad will be underdogs for that game. But if they can pull it off, wins against Ohio State and Penn State would net Michigan State a B1G East title and a trip to Indianapolis.