Michigan State at Northwestern

Saturday, November 15, 1986 Share

Northwestern beat Michigan State 24–⁠21. It was their 31st meeting; after it, Michigan State led the series 22–⁠9 as played.

AwayMichigan State6–⁠5 in 1986

HomeNorthwestern4–⁠7 in 1986

FinalHigh 36°F, low 19°FAttendance 26,711

Before kickoff

Our ratings going in

Michigan State 75% to win. Northwestern pulled the upset.

Officially, Michigan State leads 40–⁠21; as played, 41–⁠20 in 61 meetings, counting the 30 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