Michigan State at Illinois

Saturday, November 4, 1978

No. 18 Michigan State beat Illinois 59–⁠19. It was their 18th meeting; after it, Michigan State led the series 10–⁠7–⁠1 as played.

Away18Michigan State8–⁠3 in 1978
59
HomeIllinois1–⁠8–⁠2 in 1978
19

FinalHigh 78°F, low 51°FAttendance 48,077

Before kickoff

Our ratings going in

Our ratings (scores only)

Michigan State 75% to win. Elo’s favorite won.

Officially, Michigan State leads 26–⁠21–⁠2; as played, 27–⁠21–⁠2 in 50 meetings, counting the 32 since this game.

Recent meetings
2026Illinois 38, Michigan State 37
2024Illinois 38, Michigan State 16
2022Michigan State 23, Illinois 15
2019Illinois 37, Michigan State 34
2016Illinois 31, Michigan State 27
2013Michigan State 42, Illinois 3

Around this game