Michigan State had the ball to start the fourth quarter, already in Minnesota territory. After an incomplete pass, Dan Conroy nailed a 40-yard field goal that tied things up between the Wolverines and Golden Gophers at 24-24. Minnesota would go on to punt after a three and out, and the Spartans had an opportunity to take the lead - which they did. Kirk Cousins completed to Keshawn Martin for 14-yards, and a couple plays later, Edwin Baker gained 1-yards, setting Le'Veon Bell up for a 35-yard rushing touchdown. The extra point gave Michigan State a 31-24 lead.
The teams exchanged punts, and Minnesota rallied a bit with an eight play drive, but in the end, they weren't able to mount a comeback. Michigan State would go on to win a closely contested contest 31-24. Just how closely contested was it? The Spartans' Kirk Cousins threw for 296 yards, while Marqueis Gray of the Golden Gophers threw for 298. The difference was Gray's interception, while Cousins threw none.
Further showing how close it was, the teams both had 106 yards rushing altogether. Le'Veon Ball had 96 yards for Michigan State, while Gray had 20 carries for 59 yards for Minnesota. Michigan State had the edge really on turnover differential and field position. They had more kick return yards and they walk out of there with a close, close win because of it.