BCS Rankings: Is Michigan State a Legitimate Contender?

Michigan State solidified one thing after its shocking, last-second win over Wisconsin Saturday night in East Lansing.

The Spartans are for real.

After getting kicked in the mouth in the first quarter, Michigan State was looking at a 14-point deficit going into the second frame. Fifteen minutes and 23-unanswered Spartan points later, Mark Dantonio's team went into halftime with high spirits as an impressive comeback was in the works.

One difference between a contender and a pretender is the response to adversity.

In this game, the Spartans would respond twice with telling resolve.

Kirk Cousins recorded his best game of the season, throwing for 290 yards and three touchdowns to no interceptions on 22-of-31 attempts.

And on a night where Michigan State's defense would face its stiffest test yet, the Spartans offense would be the one to get the final laugh.

As time expired, Keith Nichols hauled in a 44-yard Hail Mary off a deflection, with replays showing his second effort barely inching the ball across the goal line. It was Nichols' lone reception of the night.

By the Numbers

Coming into the game, Michigan State had huge question marks surrounding their offense. Against quality defenses, would the Spartans be able to keep up with Wisconsin on offense and defense?

The Spartans answered that question loudly and clearly.

Through Michigan State's 6-1 record, it is ranked at the top in five defensive categories in the Big Ten, including rushing defense, passing defense, passing efficiency defense, total defense and sacks.

The Spartans are second in tackles for loss and sacks allowed, and third in scoring defense and passing offense. The only two categories in which they rank outside of the top eight in the conference is rushing offense and net punting.

A Look Ahead

With Michigan State a perfect 3-0 in the Big Ten, the Spartans have their eyes set on a conference title.

The brunt of their conference schedule is nearly over. Wins over Ohio State, Michigan and Wisconsin have built fabulous momentum before the Spartans go into Lincoln—perhaps their toughest road game of the season.

But should Michigan State triumph over the Cornhuskers, its four remaining games are against Minnesota, Iowa, Indiana and Northwestern.

Winning the Big Ten Legends is almost a forgone conclusion, though taking the Big Ten title is a much more complex proposition.

Still, Michigan State has built a resumé that can live up to the best of the BCS contenders.