Michigan State Football: 3 takeaways from win over Indiana in Week 8

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EAST LANSING, MI – SEPTEMBER 23: Dexter Williams #2 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish runs a second quarter touchdown during the game against the Michigan State Spartans at Spartan Stadium on September 23, 2017 in East Lansing, Michigan. (Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images) /

2. Spartans have returned to hard-nosed defense

A year ago, Michigan State stumbled on the defensive side of the ball. Dantonio knew that in order to compete in power-heavy division, shoring up the defense would be a priority. Consider that task accomplished, as the Spartans are squeezing the life out of opponents and have returned to their stingy ways on defense.

Other than last week’s 30-27 win over Minnesota, in its other five wins, Michigan State has surrendered 14 points or less in its wins. That is a recipe for success. Joe Bachie led today’s assault with 13 tackles as the Spartans held Indiana to just 253 yards of offense and no touchdowns.

Joe Bachie led the defense with 13 tackles, including 4 solo and 0.5 TFL. Bachie also forced a fumble.
— Michigan State Football (@MSU_Football) October 21, 2017

The No. 5 ranked Spartans’ defense is giving this team a chance to win week in and week out. Yes, they are young, but yes, they are making life miserable for opponents. If Sparty can take care of business next week against Northwestern, they put themselves in position for a memorable November.

With Penn State and Ohio State on the November slate, this team will be in a position no one thought was possible back in August.

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