Given the way that Michigan football has played lately and how much rival MSU had improved over the course of the year, this felt like a game that the Wolverines would likely lose, and that the Spartans could very well regain The Paul Bunyan Trophy.

Michigan was outgained and lost the time-of-possession battle by more than 14 minutes, but failed to commit a penalty or turnover for the first time since last year’s win at Nebraska. The Wolverines took advantage of their red-zone trips, going three for three inside the 20, including a 64-yard touchdown drive before half.