Michigan State Football Achieves 3-0 Record with Key Win, Faces Injury Concerns

Michigan State football improved to 3-0 with a 41-24 win over Youngstown State, completing non-conference play undefeated for the first time since 2021. Despite the victory, the Spartans showed a subpar performance with offensive struggles and defensive lapses, including a critical long run by Youngstown State due to defensive misalignment. Key players Aidan Chiles, Jack Velling, and Omari Kelly contributed significantly, with Chiles amassing 346 total yards and Kelly making a crucial 83-yard punt return. However, injuries to starting wide receiver Nick Marsh and running back Makhi Fraizer raise concerns heading into their upcoming Big Ten opener at USC. Head coach Jonathan Smith emphasized that while the win is positive, there is much room for improvement, particularly in offensive run schemes and overall execution. Meanwhile, Illinois football secured a 38-0 win over Western Michigan but faced injury concerns with key players like Justin Bowick and recurring issues for Melvin Priestly, although some starters are expected back for their next game against Indiana.