Michigan State Spartans Insider Podcast: Previewing MSU-Rutgers, Maui Invitational Wrap-Up
Michigan State football will control its own destiny when it hosts Rutgers on Saturday in what will be its regular season finale.
The Spartans need to win to clinch bowl eligibility, and if they do, it will say a lot about their season and what Jonathan Smith has accomplshed in Year 1.
On this episode of the Michigan State Spartans Insider Podcast, our Aidan Champion previews Saturday's matchup before quickly going over where Michigan State men's basketball stands going into Big Ten play.
You can watch the episode below:
Below is a transcript from Michigan State coach Jonathan Smith's opening statement from his press conference on Monday.
Smith: "OK. Kind of recapping Friday night, starting with appreciation [for the] fans, really student section. Thought they had some good energy on a Friday night at 8 o'clock, so appreciate all of those that came out, especially our students. Recapping the film, a lot to digest, but in general ... first half, a lot to like. Offensively, third-down rate, doing a good job in the red zone. Defense getting a couple of stops. And so, was pleased with how the thing started. Obviously, got in the third quarter, what was not -- really, in all three phases. Defensively, gave up a couple of long scoring drives. Could have had chances to get off the field in the third quarter; didn't get that done. Offensively, didn't move it to be able to counteract and separate more on the scoreboard. But was pleased in the fourth quarter that we continued the resolve, finding a way, defensively holding up, and then, closing the thing out. So, found a way to win a game, which was big because it sets up for a big game this Saturday against a good opponent. I think Rutgers is good. If you look on this tape, physical, well-coached, disciplined team, experienced quarterback, but one of the best running backs we'll play all season. This guy is good, and that starts with a good offensive line in front of him. So, a real challenge. But excited to celebrate [this] senior class. Last home game and all of that. We've got a lot to play for, so I know these guys are excited to put in some work this week and take on the challenge on Saturday."
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