Spartans surge to 35-7 win over Eastern Michigan in second half

Michigan State defeated Eastern Michigan 35-7 on Saturday, September 12, 2026, in a dominant second half that turned a 14-7 halftime lead into a blowout. The Spartans improved their record to 2-0 and now face a marquee matchup against No. 3 Notre Dame next weekend. The game was highlighted by a strong rushing attack and a defense that limited EMU to just 57 yards in the second half.

Junior running back Cam Edwards carried the Spartans to victory with 152 yards on 21 carries, accounting for more than half of the team's 258 rushing yards. The defense forced a fumble by graduate cornerback Charles Brantley on EMU's first possession of the second half, sparking a 28-7 lead that never wavered. The Spartans also benefited from a 44‑yard punt that set up a 31‑yard return by senior wide receiver Chrishon McCray.

Head coach Pat Fitzgerald praised the team's emphasis on a fast start in the third quarter and the synergy between the run and pass game. He noted that the defense held EMU to 57 yards in the second half, while the offense added 329 yards of total offense in that period. The Spartans now look forward to a challenging game against Notre Dame next weekend.

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