Brian Hoyer had 169 yards and two touchdowns on 14-of-20 passing for the Spartans (6-1, 3-0 Big Ten), who became bowl eligible with their sixth consecutive win. Michigan State's only loss came in the first game of the season, a 38-31 loss at California.

Andrew Hawke and Garrett Celle each caught a touchdown pass for the Spartans. Kicker Brett Swenson was 3-for-3 on field goal attempts. Swenson has been successful on 15 consecutive field goals, a Michigan State record.

C.J. Basher completed 34-of-61 passes for 283 yards and a touchdown for Northwestern (5-1, 1-1), but threw two interceptions. The Wildcats had their first 5-0 start since 1962.

Tyrell Sutton ran for 139 yards for Northwestern. Ross Lane caught nine passes for 113 yards and Rasheed Ward had seven catches, one for a touchdown.