East Lansing, Michigan, September 16, 2025
News Summary
Michigan State University achieved a 41-24 victory over Youngstown State, improving their record to 3-0. However, the win was overshadowed by injuries to key players including quarterback Aidan Chiles and star wide receiver Nick Marsh. Despite a strong performance from Chiles, the Spartans’ running game struggled, and they faced defensive challenges. With crucial players sidelined, MSU must prepare for their upcoming Big Ten game against USC as they navigate injury concerns.
East Lansing, Michigan – Michigan State University (MSU) secured a 41-24 victory against Youngstown State on Saturday, but the win was overshadowed by increasing injury concerns as the team prepares for their upcoming schedule. The Spartans improved their record to 3-0, but the lack of depth due to injuries may pose challenges moving forward.
Quarterback Aidan Chiles had an efficient performance, completing 22 of 29 passes for 270 yards, including one touchdown pass. However, Chiles also threw his first interception of the season, which stemmed from a blitzer not being adequately picked up by a running back.
Despite the victory, the performance of the running game raised alarms. The Spartans accumulated only 96 yards on 23 carries, with primary running back Makhi Frazier managing just 22 yards on 12 attempts before he too left the game with an injury. The offensive strategy, orchestrated by offensive coordinator Brian Lindgren, initially leveraged star wide receiver Nick Marsh, who made six catches for 94 yards in the first half. However, Marsh exited the game due to injury, raising questions about the team’s receiving corps going forward.
Defensively, the Spartans struggled to contain the opposing offense, allowing seven plays to exceed 17 yards and permitting the opposition to convert nine out of 17 third and fourth down attempts. The lack of pressure on the quarterback was evident, as MSU recorded only three QB pressures and two sacks.
Special teams featured some highlights, as punter Ryan Eckley impressed, though fans noted a rare disappointment with a 48-yard punt. Omari Kelly made headlines with an 83-yard punt return that was halted just shy of the end zone due to a stumble. Kicker Martin Connington maintained his perfect record, successfully converting both field goals from 24 and 27 yards.
In light of the injuries, the coaching staff is under pressure to make adjustments. Defensive coordinator Joe Rossi faces scrutiny in optimizing the defense amidst the growing injury list. Key players such as defensive backs Caleb Gash and Andrew Brinson IV have been declared out for the season, compounding the challenge ahead for MSU.
While coach Jonathan Smith reassured fans that the injuries to both Nick Marsh and Makhi Frazier are not long-term, further evaluation will take place later in the week. Additionally, Luka Vincic and Alante Brown sustained injuries with the latter expected to miss an extended period.
Looking ahead, the Spartans must quickly shift their focus to their first Big Ten game against USC, scheduled for September 20 at 11 p.m. ET. The injury situation raises significant concern as the Spartans gear up to tackle tougher opponents, which could heavily affect the outcomes of their season.
FAQ
- What was the final score of the game? MSU won against Youngstown State with a score of 41-24.
- Who is the starting quarterback for MSU? Aidan Chiles is the starting quarterback, completing 22 of 29 passes for 270 yards.
- What injuries were reported from the game? Injuries were reported for star wide receiver Nick Marsh, running back Makhi Frazier, and defensive backs Caleb Gash and Andrew Brinson IV, who are out for the season.
- When is MSU’s next game? MSU’s next game is scheduled against USC on September 20 at 11 p.m. ET.
Key Features of the Game
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Final Score | MSU 41, Youngstown State 24 |
| Quarterback Performance | Aidan Chiles: 22/29, 270 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT |
| Star Players | Nick Marsh: 6 catches, 94 yards; Jack Velling: 6 catches, 70 yards |
| Running Game | 96 rushing yards on 23 carries |
| Defensive Performance | Allowed 7 plays over 17 yards; 3 pressures, 2 sacks |
| Injuries | Nick Marsh, Makhi Frazier, Caleb Gash, Andrew Brinson IV |
| Next Game | VS USC, September 20 at 11 p.m. ET |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Michigan State Football Lands Commitment from Samson Gash
Samson Gash Receives Scholarship Offer from Michigan State
Additional Resources
- Detroit Free Press: Nick Marsh Injury Update
- Detroit News: Three Things Learned Against Youngstown State
- Spartans Wire: MSU Football Injury Updates
- Wikipedia: Michigan State Spartans Football
- Google Search: Michigan State Football News
Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER
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