Michigan State defensive end Michael Fletcher ejected for targeting in second quarter vs. Wisconsin

With Wisconsin nursing a 14-7 lead over Michigan State midway through the second quarter in East Lansing, the Spartans looked like they had wrapped up star Badgers tailback Braelon Allen for a loss. But that was before defensive end Michael Fletcher made a late, ill-advised hit.

With the tailback wrapped up in the backfield and laying on top of the defender who originally tackled him, Fletcher dove in late and drove his forearm and elbow into Allen’s face mask. The play was originally called for a late hit and then an additional review tacked on targeting and Fletcher was ejected.

Because the ejection took place in the first half, Fletcher won’t miss any additional time beyond Saturday’s game.

And fortunately for MSU, they slowed down and sacked Wisconsin quarterback Graham Mertz on the ensuing series to get the ball back shortly before halftime.

Michigan State outlasted the Badgers in double overtime

It took a handful of extra periods, but the Spartans were triumphant on homecoming thanks to some timely plays from wide receivers Jayden Reed and Keon Coleman, plus arguably the best defensive effort Michigan State has put on tape to date in 2022.

Quarterback Payton Thorne also played one of his sharpest games of the season, completing 21-of-28 pass attempts for 265 yards and two touchdowns. The Spartans also had a third passing touchdown on a flea-flicker pass from Reed — yes, the receiver — to Coleman for a touchdown in the first overtime.

Conversely, the Michigan State defense clamped down on Wisconsin. Allen finished with 27 carries for 123 yards and two scores, but outside of him the Badgers posed little threat. Mertz finished with a quarterback rating of 36.6. His final stat line passing: 14-of-24 for 131 yards, two touchdowns and an interception. He was sacked three times.