After a challenging year, Michigan State showed some 'durability' in its 38-28 win over Maryland

The Michigan State Spartans headed into their game at Ford Field on an eight game losing streak. After coming up short against opponent after opponent, and with an uncertain future for their head coach, it would have been easy for the Spartans to hang it up and not compete against Maryland despite the Terrapins also falling on tough times in Big Ten play. When the final whistle blew, the joy from the players could be felt across the stadium. Players ran to celebrate with their teammates and sang the fight song with the band, which had not taken place in almost two months.

Winning for their coach

In his post game comments, head coach Jonathan Smith had nothing but praise for his players for sticking through the adversity of the last 10 weeks dating back to a conference opening loss at USC before the team's first of two bye weeks. Smith referenced leadership, professionalism, and player development to describe his group and its ability to pull off the win.

"Been through a lot," Smith began. "Long season, some downs, some disappointment, but definitely frustration. But really proud of them as they continued to battle. Went to work, played and practiced with energy, and so happy for them to come out with a win like they did."