College Football Playoff Ranking Projections: Top 25 for Week 12
By Zach Bigalke
With a chance to surprise the field and claim the lead in the Big Ten East race, No. 12 Michigan State fell flat against No. 13 Ohio State on the road. The Spartans managed just one field goal in a 48-3 blowout loss that eliminated them from conference contention. Mark Dantonio‘s team will tumble far down the College Football Playoff Top 25 as a result of the defeat.
After two huge performances, Spartans quarterback Brian Lewerke struggled against the Buckeyes. Lewerke finished 18-of-36 for 131 yards and two picks. Michigan State managed just 64 rushing yards against a stout Ohio State front seven. And the defense struggled to contain OSU backs Mike Weber and J.K. Dobbins, who combined for 286 rushing yards on 27 carries.
No longer in the hunt for the Big Ten title, Michigan State must now turn its attention to new goals. 10 wins are still within reach if the Spartans can close out the regular season strong against Maryland and Rutgers and win their bowl game. But Dantonio’s team will have to wait for 2018 for another shot at the conference crown.