Michigan State Wins 35 14

Michigan State vs. Florida Atlantic score: Game recap, highlights from opening game

Michigan State wins 35-14

Michigan State opened the 2022 season with a 35-14 win over Florida Atlantic on Friday night at home.

Game recap

The Spartans took an early lead and never looked back, scoring a touchdown on their opening drive and forcing a three-and-out from the Owls.

Michigan State's offense was efficient all night, racking up 422 yards of total offense, balanced between 215 yards passing and 207 yards rushing. Quarterback Payton Thorne was 19-of-27 for 215 yards and two touchdowns, including an impressive 38-yard strike to wide receiver Jayden Reed.

The Spartans defense was just as impressive, holding Florida Atlantic to just 14 points and 269 yards of total offense. Linebacker Jacoby Windmon came up with a big play late in the third quarter, intercepting a pass from FAU quarterback N'Kosi Perry and returning it 35 yards for a touchdown.

Highlights

• Michigan State scored a touchdown on their opening drive, a 3-yard run by Jalen Berger.
• Florida Atlantic responded with a field goal on their opening drive, but that was as close as they would get.
• Payton Thorne threw two touchdown passes, one to Jayden Reed and one to Keon Coleman.
• Jacoby Windmon had a big night, with an interception, a fumble recovery, and a touchdown.

What's next?

Michigan State will host Akron next Saturday, while Florida Atlantic will head to Toledo.