Here is the article on the loss to Illinois. The main problem for the Spartans was a lackluster run game, getting off the field on third down, and allowing explosive plays on defense, especially through the air. The latter was fueled by the continued issue with the pass rush.
MSU drops to 4-6, but all is not lost. Purdue is terrible and Rutgers is a coin flip. The Spartans' ceiling might be the old Motor City Bowl, but that is still better than we expected back in August.
The run game struggled, and the defense could not get off the field on third down as the Spartans lose by 22.
michiganstate.rivals.com