Michigan State Spartans quarterback Katin Houser (12) walks through the tunnel - Adam Ruff/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
The 2023 season is officially over for the Michigan State Spartans. Their season ends with a 4-8 record, which means Friday night was the last of the 2023 Michigan State football team. They lost against the Penn State Nittany Lions with a final score of 42-0. Here is a look back at the loss and where the team has to go from here, following the conclusion of the season.
Spartans Offense Can’t Get Anywhere
With scoring zero points, it is safe to say that the Michigan Spartans could not do much against Penn State. There were moments where they did get positive yards, but it was not enough, especially once the game was too far out of reach for them. The Penn State defense played well, and quarterback Katin Houser was under immense pressure throughout. The Nittany Lions’ defensive line is strong, barely blitzing, and they still sacked Michigan State seven times.
Houser completed 11 passes out of 19 attempts for 87 yards, according to ESPN. At one point the team was getting down the field nicely, but Houser threw an interception, helping Penn State too much. Credit where credit is due, Houser’s longest passing plays went for 30 and 29 yards. As for the rushing game, it is hard to run against Penn State. The Spartans were only able to rush for a total of -35 yards. Nathan Carter did rush for 39 yards, but Houser lost many yards throughout the game.
Spartans Defense Makes Key Stops, but Not Enough
To start the game, Penn State actually had to punt the ball a couple of times, or Michigan State held the Nittany Lions to field goals to start. The key here is “to start.” The score at halftime was just 13-0, which really is not bad. Second half there was no stopping Penn State.
Quarterback Drew Allar completed 17 passes out of 26 attempts for 292 yards and two touchdowns, according to ESPN. Fellow quarterback Beau Pribula went in a couple of times and completed both passes he attempted, one for a touchdown. The Nittany Lions rushing game totaled 283 yards, with both Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen rushing for over 100 yards each. This was not an easy task for the Spartans to stop.
Where the Program Goes from Here
Next up for Michigan State, it is time to find a new head coach. Interim head coach, Harlon Barnett did say he would like to be considered, but while the team will keep him in mind, there is a higher chance they hire elsewhere. There is a lot that needs to be fixed within this program. Not even getting five wins this season is a letdown. The transfer portal will also open up soon, which will be something to monitor. The future coach will need to prepare for a whole new Big Ten next season, which may make the battle for a bowl game even harder.
