Michigan State football: Revisiting Week 9 goals vs. Minnesota

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - OCTOBER 28: Katin Houser #12 of the Michigan State Spartans reacts after being hit on a play in the first quarter against the Minnesota Golden Gophers at Huntington Bank Stadium on October 28, 2023 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Stephen Maturen/Getty Images) /

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Oct 28, 2023; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Michigan State University Spartans defensive back Jaden Mangham (1) runs with the ball after intercepting a pass against the Minnesota Golden Gophers during the third quarter at Huntington Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nick Wosika-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Win the turnover battle

This was a lofty goal, as Minnesota simply does not fumble — until they play that powerhouse Michigan State defense. Fumbles on the first two drives set the Spartans up in perfect position to put this game in a stranglehold.

The problem with fumbles is that it gives the ball to the Michigan State offense. That’s a problem (see previous slide).

If I were to write a game script, two fumbles by Minnesota to start the game would have been too perfect and the head of the movie studio would have demanded a more realistic scenario. Even a mediocre offense cashes one of those short field drives into the end zone.

Even Tre Mosley is dropping passes and when your best players aren’t focused, there is zero chance of winning. It’s up the coaches to keep these kids motivated and they have failed the players at seemingly every turn.

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