The loss to Indiana dropped the Spartans' record to 4-5. In Year 1 of Jonathan Smith’s tenure, many had the goal of making a bowl game. In order for Michigan State to gain bowl eligibility, it needs to win two of its remaining three games.

It was a new opponent, but the same Michigan State football team on Saturday, as the Spartans beat themselves too much in a loss to Illinois.

The Illini dominated the Spartans on Senior Day, picking up their first win in nearly a month. The Illinois offense showed up and showed out, with quarterback Luke Altmyer throwing for 231 yards and two touchdowns and running back Josh McCray rushing for three touchdowns on 6.