Kirk Cousins News

During a week when only one Big Ten team played and a lot changed in the bowling world a ' of football, that is.

Another football season has come and gone in East Lansing, and the Spartans, picked to finish third in the Big Ten this season, had a disappointing year, finishing 6-6 in regular season play and 4-4 in the Big Ten.

Which half Saturday was more illuminating -- the Spartan's strong first half or their second-half collapse? The second.

EAST LANSING - Michigan State handed out individual awards for the 2009 football season Sunday evening at the team banquet.

Michigan State's Greg Jones went wire-to-wire as the Big Ten's top defensive player.

Michigan State's shaky secondary could get quite a challenge when its bowl destination and opponent are named in two weeks.

Despite losing to Penn State, 42-12, on Saturday at Spartan Stadium, Michigan State will play in a bowl game.

Senior kicker Brett Swenson was elected as Michigan State's most valuable player in a vote of Spartans players and coaches.

"It is what it is." That is one of the most overused quotes by athletes and coaches who often utter it to describe a tough situation they wish they could change.

Michigan State quarterback Kirk Cousins dives over Penn State's Drew Astorino, for a first down as Penn State's Sean Lee moves in.

Michigan State was the first university in the United States to teach scientific agriculture.

PENN STATE AT MICHIGAN STATE Categories: College , College Sports , Sports Posted by willy22 at 08:52:04 PM on November 19, 2009 Details: 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Spartan Stadium, East Lansing, Mich.

It was there all week in the Penn State locker room, the large mass of wood adorned with pictures and trinkets, the thing they call the Land Grant Trophy.

In the eyes of the 19 departing seniors, Michigan State's football program is in much better shape than when they arrived in East Lansing.

Lots of loud explosions, little rhythm. But much of that has to do with the way Purdue's offense kept the ball away from the Spartans.

Did you attend this game? If so, start chronicling your sports memories today with ESPN's Sports Passport.

West Lafayette, Ind. -- Few Michigan State fans can forget former coach John L. Smith's epic nationally televised meltdown at Ohio State in 2005.

Michigan State tight end Charlie Gantt, left, picks up a 55-yards on a pass reception as Purdue safety Torri Williams tries to make the tackle .

Unless arch-rival Michigan beats Ohio State, Michigan State appears bowl-bound after Saturday's thrilling 40-37 victory over Purdue.

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. -- Michigan State scored a touchdown just seven seconds into the game, but Purdue quickly answered and holds a 20-17 lead at halftime.