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Difference Makers: Michigan State offensive weapons shine in Holiday Bowl win over Washington State

Michigan State Spartans wide receiver Felton Davis III (18) hauls in a long pass to give his team a first down and set them up to score against WSU during the first half of the 2017 Holiday Bowl Thursday, December 28, 2017, at SDCCU Stadium in San Diego, Calif. (Tyler Tjomsland / The Spokesman-Review)

SAN DIEGO – The key players in Michigan State’s 42-17 win over Washington State at SDCCU Stadium in San Diego on Thursday, Dec. 28, 2017.

Brian Lewerke, Michigan State QB

After a season of ups and downs, the sophomore got off to a slow start Thursday. However, Lewerke found his rhythm in a game-turning second quarter in which he completed 10 of 11 passes for 163 yards to give MSU a 21-3 halftime lead. Lewerke finished 13-for-21 for 213 yards and three touchdowns. He also ran for 73.

LJ Scott, Michigan State RB

Like Lewerke, the junior running back struggled in the second quarter, but was a constant threat to bust a long run. He kept the WSU defense honest in the first quarter - spreading the field for the passing game - and still finished with a game-high 110 yards. None of his 18 carries went for negative yardage, and he found the end zone twice, including a 3-yard run just before halftime to put the Spartans up 21-3.

Felton Davis, Michigan State WR

The 6-foot-4 junior made WSU’s secondary pay dearly with three big plays in the first half. The biggest came midway through the first half, as Davis took advantage of a blown assignment to score on a 49-yard pass from Lewerke ot put MSU ahead 14-3. Davis added a 27-yard reception to jump-start another touchdown drive and finished with a game-high 118 yards on just four catches.


Highlights