Michigan State at Northwestern

Saturday, November 18, 1978 Share

No. 16 Michigan State beat Northwestern 52–⁠3. It was their 23rd meeting; after it, Michigan State led the series 16–⁠7 as played.

Away16Michigan State8–⁠3 in 1978

HomeNorthwestern0–⁠10–⁠1 in 1978

FinalHigh 46°F, low 36°FAttendance 14,157

Before kickoff

Our ratings going in

Michigan State 88% to win. Elo’s favorite won.

Officially, Michigan State leads 40–⁠21; as played, 41–⁠20 in 61 meetings, counting the 38 since this game.

Recent meetings
2026	Northwestern 24, Michigan State 21
2021	Michigan State 38, Northwestern 21
2020	Michigan State 29, Northwestern 20
2019	Michigan State 31, Northwestern 10
2018	Northwestern 29, Michigan State 19
2017	Northwestern 39, Michigan State 31