Rating the Spartans on a scale of 1-10

Offense

Every time MSU needed to reclaim momentum, this group did the job, and it was turnover free.

The offensive line was challenged in a different way than a week ago, allowing the Wildcats to get at Brian Hoyer for two sacks and several pressures. Some missed assignments were involved, but things improved in the second half.

The big guys opened holes for Javon Ringer, and Hoyer made key plays through the air. He was a very sharp 14 of 20 and did it without Mark Dell.

Rating: 8

Defense

Compared with last year's game against Northwestern, this was a 17 on a scale of 1-10. The Spartans tackled, covered, broke up 12 passes and forced three turnovers.

The pass rush was not great, but it rarely is against this quick-pass style.

MSU made one glaring mistake, on Tyrell Sutton's career-long 66-yard run early in the third. Other than that, the Wildcats had to work hard for everything - and took a lot of big hits in the process.

The huge rotation of players made this performance more impressive.

Rating: 7

Special teams

As it turns out, MSU never should have had Javon Ringer returning kicks. Not because it endangered Ringer - because Glenn Winston is a beast!

The true freshman appears to be a natural, he's speedy and a load to bring down. Twice he nearly went the distance.

Aaron Bates bounced back from last week, blasting a 57-yarder that was downed at the Northwestern 2. Brett Swenson? Perfect, giving himself the MSU record with 15 straight made field goals.

All around, the best day of the season for the kicking game.

Rating: 9

Overall

One coaching decision deserves harsh criticism. Why did MSU call a timeout with five seconds left and Northwestern threatening to score a meaningless touchdown? We're all trying to get home, fellas.

On a serious note, this was another solid display of game planning and focus. The players were prepared, they started strong, and they did not get too high on their own big plays or too low on Northwestern's.

The Wildcats aren't bad at all, but the Spartans did not allow them to prove it.

Rating: 8

Bottom line

Michigan's in the gutter. Ohio State has looked mortal at times. Penn State ... well, Penn State is ridiculous.

But the Spartans can dream, can't they?

MSU is one upset victory away from establishing itself as a very real contender for the Big Ten championship. After OSU, it's Michigan, Wisconsin and Purdue - a winnable string before the season finale at Penn State.

So enjoy the week ahead. The number of years since MSU has hosted such a significant game in the Big Ten race (2003 vs. U-M) is: 5