EAST LANSING, Mich. – Despite a standout day from the defense that included forcing three turnovers, the Maryland football team fell to #14 Michigan State, 24-7, Saturday at Spartan Stadium.

Junior defensive end Yannick Ngakoue posted 1.5 sacks in the game to bring his season total to 12.5 (second in the nation), while William Likely finished with 75 all-purpose yards to become the first defensive player (12th overall) in Maryland history to reach 3,000 career all-purpose yards.

The Spartans broke the scoreless tie eight minutes into the first quarter when quarterback Tyler O'Connor capped off a 10-play drive with a 10-yard touchdown pass to Macgarrett Kings.

The Terps immediately responded with their own 10-play scoring drive, as running back Brandon Ross crossed the goal line from one yard out. The drive was largely set up by Perry Hills and Levern Jacobs, who connected for 50 yards on the series.

The Maryland defense stood tall for the next 20 minutes of action, but it was Riley Bullough's interception for a touchdown that broke the 7-7 draw with 2:07 to play in the first half. Michigan State then added a field goal from 35 yards out to close the half, giving the Spartans a 17-7 advantage.

The Spartans extended their advantage in the second half when they finished an 11-play drive with a Gerald Holmes 3-yard rushing touchdown.

NOTES: Senior Sean Davis recorded his 300th career tackle … senior Anthony Nixon intercepted a pair of passes – he has three on the season.