Michigan State avenges 2014 defeat, beats Oregon

No. 5 Michigan State relied on a balanced attack to beat back visiting No. 7 Oregon 31-28 in the 2015 season's first meeting of top-10 teams. The Spartans took the lead before the conclusion of the first half and withheld a spirited Ducks squad to avenge last season's loss in Eugene. While neither quarterback had a highlight-reel performance, the Spartans enjoyed a stronger running game, with Madre London and LJ Scott accruing a combined 180 rushing yards.

Here's what you need to know:

• Michigan State offensive lineman Kodi Kieler left Saturday's game after dropping to the field in the first quarter. He exited the field shortly after with assistance, putting no weight on his right knee. Kieler did not return.
• Spartans quarterback Connor Cook had a strong but unmemorable outing, going 20-for-32 for 192 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception.
• Michigan State running back Madre London ran for 104 yards, while teammate LJ Scott ran for 76 yards and two touchdowns. On the other side, Oregon's rushing leader, Royce Freeman, accrued 92 yards and one touchdown.
• Ducks signal-caller Vernon Adams entered the contest nursing an injured finger. The ailment came into focus in the third when he took a hit and then focused attention on the digit while on the sidelines.
• As for Adams, he had a somewhat mediocre night, going 22-for-39 for an impressive 309 yards, but only one touchdown and two interceptions.
• Oregon did make history on the night, setting a NCAA record for consecutive games with a touchdown pass at 70.

Play of the Game

It might not have been the flashiest play, but Scott's 38-yard touchdown run in the early stages of the fourth quarter iced the Spartans victory.

Next up for Michigan State is Air Force on Sept. 19, the same day Oregon hosts Georgia State.