Michigan State Football: 5 takeaways from loss to Ohio State in Week 11

COLUMBUS, OH - NOVEMBER 11: Quarterback Brian Lewerke #14 of the Michigan State Spartans passes in the fourth quarter against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Ohio Stadium on November 11, 2017 in Columbus, Ohio. Ohio State defeated Michigan State 48-3. (Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images) /

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COLUMBUS, OH – NOVEMBER 11: Binjimen Victor #9 of the Ohio State Buckeyes eludes the tackle attempt of Justin Layne #2 of the Michigan State Spartans to pick up additional yardage after a catch in the third quarter at Ohio Stadium on November 11, 2017 in Columbus, Ohio. Ohio State defeated Michigan State 48-3. (Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images) /

3. Defense has a ways to go

Using the term “gash” to describe what Ohio State’s run game did to the Spartans is an understatement. A good game for an offense is around 4-5 yards per carry — and that’s on the higher end — but the Buckeyes averaged an incredible 8.0 yards per touch when taking to the ground against the usually-stout MSU defense.

In fact, the Spartans’ defense ranked third in the country against the run before this game and gave up four games worth of yardage in one 60-minute showing.

The defensive line was obliterated and the linebackers were contained, opening holes the size of the Grand Canyon. The front-seven was given a severe wake-up call.

That extends to the pass defense, too. There was essentially no pass rush from the Spartans, finishing the game with no sacks and only one hurry. Quite the far cry from last year’s game against the Buckeyes.

JT Barrett was able to sit back and pick apart the secondary for two scores and 183 yards on 14-of-21 completions. The defense has some serious work to do.

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