Michigan vs Michigan State Rivalry-The Michigan vs Michigan State football clash is more than just a game—it’s a blood feud that ignites passions across the Great Lakes State. Known as “The Battle for the Paul Bunyan Trophy,” this in-state rivalry dates back to 1898 and has delivered heart-pounding drama for over a century. On October 25, 2025, at Spartan Stadium in East Lansing, the Michigan Wolverines faced off against the Michigan State Spartans in a primetime showdown that had fans glued to their screens.
For those searching “Michigan vs Mi State” or “Michigan Michigan State,” this matchup lived up to the hype. The Wolverines entered as slight favorites with a 5-2 record, while the Spartans, sitting at 3-4, desperately needed a signature win to salvage their season. Airing on NBC at 7:30 p.m. ET, the game drew massive viewership, underscoring why queries like “Michigan game today” spike during rivalry week.
This article dives deep into the Michigan score, standout performances, and where to catch the replay if you missed the action. Whether you’re a die-hard Wolverines fan or a Spartans supporter licking wounds, we’ve got the SEO-optimized breakdown you need.
Michigan Game Today: Final Score and Key Stats
Yesterday’s Michigan game today—technically October 25—ended with a decisive Wolverines victory: Michigan 31, Michigan State 20. This marks Michigan’s fourth straight win over their rivals, extending their dominance in the series.
Here’s a quick stats snapshot in table form for easy digestion:
| Category | Michigan Wolverines | Michigan State Spartans |
|---|---|---|
| Total Yards | 378 | 312 |
| Passing Yards | 86 | 145 |
| Rushing Yards | 292 | 167 |
| Turnovers | 1 | 2 |
| Time of Possession | 32:45 | 27:15 |
| Penalties | 5 (45 yards) | 8 (65 yards) |
The Michigan score reflected a balanced attack, with the ground game carrying the day. QB Bryce Underwood completed 8-of-17 passes for 86 yards, but it was the rushing duo that stole the show. For Spartans fans googling “Michigan State Spartans football vs Michigan Wolverines football,” the final tally stings, but the effort showed flashes of potential.
This win boosts Michigan to 6-2 overall (4-1 in Big Ten), while MSU drops to 3-5 (0-5 conference). If you’re tracking “Michigan score” trends, expect Wolverines searches to surge as playoff talks heat up.
Michigan Wolverines Football Dominance: How They Won
Michigan Wolverines football has been on a tear, and their performance against Michigan State was a masterclass in physical, gritty Big Ten ball. Trailing early 7-3, the Wolverines flipped the script with a 21-point second-half explosion.
- Ground-and-Pound Mastery: RBs Justice Haynes and Donovan Edwards combined for 215 rushing yards and three TDs. Haynes’ 45-yard scamper in the third quarter broke MSU’s defense wide open, showcasing Michigan’s revamped offensive line.
- Defensive Standouts: The secondary, led by CB Will Johnson, snagged an interception that halted a Spartans comeback attempt. Michigan’s D held MSU to just 3-of-12 on third downs.
- Special Teams Edge: Kicker Semaj Morgan nailed a 48-yard field goal late, sealing the deal and earning MVP chants from the traveling Maize and Blue faithful.
Head coach Sherrone Moore’s adjustments at halftime were pivotal—switching to a no-huddle tempo wore down the Spartans’ front seven. For fans typing “Michigan Wolverines football,” this victory cements their status as contenders, blending veteran savvy with young talent.
The Paul Bunyan Trophy returns to Ann Arbor for the fourth consecutive year, a trophy older than most fans searching these terms. Wolverines’ efficiency (4.2 yards per carry) outpaced MSU’s sloppy play, turning potential chaos into controlled chaos.
Michigan State Spartans Football Struggles Exposed
On the flip side, Michigan State Spartans football entered the game with hope but left with harsh realities. Despite a spirited first quarter, turnovers and penalties doomed them early.
- QB Woes: Starter Aidan Chiles threw for 145 yards but coughed up two picks, including a back-breaking one in Spartans territory.
- Run Game Stifled: MSU’s vaunted rushing attack, led by Nate Carter (78 yards), couldn’t sustain drives against Michigan’s stout front.
- Home Crowd Silence: Spartan Stadium’s energy fizzled after the half, as the 75,000-strong crowd watched helplessly.
Coach Jonathan Smith’s squad showed grit, tying it at 10-10 midway through the second, but self-inflicted wounds—a holding call nullifying a TD and three dropped passes—proved costly. For those querying “Michigan State Spartans football vs Michigan Wolverines football,” this loss highlights deeper issues: a 0-5 Big Ten skid and questions about depth.
Yet, positives emerged: Freshman WR Kevin Thomas hauled in seven catches for 92 yards, hinting at future firepower. MSU must regroup quickly, but this Michigan vs Mi State defeat will linger.
Where to Watch Michigan Wolverines Football vs Michigan State Spartans Football Replays
Missed the live action? No sweat—relive the Michigan vs Michigan State thriller with these streaming options tailored for “where to watch Michigan Wolverines football vs Michigan State Spartans football” searches.
- NBC/Peacock: The official broadcast is available on-demand via Peacock Premium ($5.99/month). Full game replay, condensed highlights, and post-game analysis included.
- FuboTV: Cord-cutters’ dream—stream the replay in 4K with DVR controls. Free trial available for new users.
- ESPN App: Box scores, play-by-play recaps, and clips for “Michigan score” enthusiasts. Download for mobile access.
- YouTube TV: Unlimited cloud DVR lets you pause and rewind key moments like Haynes’ TD run.
- Big Ten Network On-Demand: Conference pass holders get exclusive angles and coach’s film breakdowns.
Pro tip: Search “where to watch Michigan State Spartans football vs Michigan Wolverines football” on Google for geo-specific streams. International fans, VPN to U.S. servers for seamless access. With the game archived, it’s perfect for offseason binge-watching.
Michigan vs Mi State Highlights: Top Plays
Nothing captures the essence of Michigan Michigan State like the bone-crunching hits and game-changing scores. Here’s a bullet-point rundown of the top moments:
- Opening Salvo (Q1, 8:42): MSU strikes first with Chiles’ 22-yard TD pass to Thomas, silencing the Wolverines’ travel squad.
- Wolverines Respond (Q2, 4:15): Edwards barrels in from 12 yards, knotting it at 7-7 amid thunderous cheers.
- Haynes’ Dagger (Q3, 9:20): The 45-yard burst puts Michigan up 24-10; replay shows blocks pancaking two Spartans.
- Spartans’ Last Gasp (Q4, 2:45): Carter’s 30-yard scamper pulls MSU within 11, but Johnson’s pick seals fate.
- Victory Clincher (Q4, 0:45): Morgan’s 48-yarder from the shadows—pure clutch.
These clips are blowing up on social media, driving “Michigan vs Mi State” trends. ESPN’s highlight reel clocks in at 5 minutes—essential viewing for any college football aficionado.
Michigan Michigan State Head-to-Head History
The Michigan vs Michigan State ledger favors the Wolverines 72-29-5 all-time, but the Spartans’ 2015-2021 streak (four straight wins) added spice. Recent years? Pure Maize and Blue: Michigan’s 49-0 drubbing in 2023 still haunts East Lansing.
This 31-20 result fits the pattern of tight-but-decisive Wolverines triumphs. Fun fact: The Paul Bunyan Trophy, carved from a 240-year-old oak, symbolizes the axe-wielding lumberjack lore tying the schools.
5 Q&A: Answering Your Burning Questions on Michigan Score and More
Got queries post-game? We’ve curated five based on top searches like “Michigan score” and “Michigan game today.”
- What was the final Michigan score against Michigan State? Michigan triumphed 31-20, with three rushing TDs powering the win.
- Where can I watch the Michigan Wolverines football vs Michigan State Spartans football replay? Peacock or FuboTV—both offer HD on-demand starting today.
- Who were the MVPs in Michigan vs Mi State? Justice Haynes (112 rush yards, 2 TDs) for offense; Will Johnson (INT, 3 tackles) on D.
- How does this affect Michigan Michigan State playoff odds? Boosts Wolverines to 12% CFP chances (per ESPN); Spartans now longshots at 2%.
- What’s the next Michigan game today or soon? October 4 vs. Washington—tune in on FOX for prime time.
What’s Next for Michigan Wolverines Football?
With the rivalry in the rearview, Michigan Wolverines football eyes the Big Ten title. A win over Washington could vault them into top-10 contention. For Spartans, bye week soul-searching looms. Stay tuned—college football’s chaos is just heating up.
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