Michigan State Football: Report card for Pinstripe Bowl win over Wake Forest

NEW YORK, NY - DECEMBER 27: Defensive tackle Mike Panasiuk #72 of the Michigan State Spartans celebrates after defeating the Wake Forest Demon Deacons in the New Era Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium on December 27, 2019 in the Bronx borough of New York City. Michigan State Spartans won 27-21. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - DECEMBER 27: Defensive tackle Mike Panasiuk #72 of the Michigan State Spartans celebrates after defeating the Wake Forest Demon Deacons in the New Era Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium on December 27, 2019 in the Bronx borough of New York City. Michigan State Spartans won 27-21. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images) /
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Michigan State football closed the season on a high note with a win over Wake Forest in the Pinstripe Bowl. What does the report card look like?

Michigan State fans needed some good news. After watching a team that many considered a preseason contender in the Big Ten East go 6-6, a win in the Pinstripe Bowl would be the next best thing. Beating an 8-4 Wake Forest team was a consolation prize to a disappointing season but there were positives to take away from the victory.

Although no future starting quarterback played as Brian Lewerke won the MVP with over 360 yards of total offense and two touchdowns, there’s still hope for the future.

Guys like Trenton Gillison, Elijah Collins, Anthony Williams Jr., Tre Mosley and Jalen Nailor showcased talent and hope. Their potential is endless and whoever becomes the next quarterback for the Spartans could have a wealth of weapons.

Defensively, the Spartans struggled early on, giving up a touchdown in the opening minutes but settled in after that drive and then in the second half as well.

In fact, Michigan State surrendered just two touchdowns after that opening drive and zero points in the second half. All three touchdowns came from the passing game as Jamie Newman seemed to find success through the air in the first half.

In the end, Michigan State found a way to win 27-21.

Which position group received the highest grade on Friday?