Rehash&Analysis: Michigan State's fourth quarter fold job spoils spirited comeback

LINCOLN, Neb. - Michigan State seemed on the cusp of a breakthrough, comeback victory, and possibly a bellwether moment in the Jonathan Smith era, but instead collapsed in the fourth quarter, surrendering a 38-27 decision to Nebraska, Saturday at Memorial Stadium.  Now Michigan State must process a 3-2 record (0-2 in the Big Ten) and an increasing specter that the Spartans have trouble putting four solid quarters together, especially against reputable opponents. Nebraska improved to 4-1. Michigan State fought back from a 14-0 deficit and early horrors to take a 21-14 lead late in the third quarter. But Nebraska’s highly-ranked passing offense - which had been held in check most of the game, thanks in part to a suddenly-effective Michigan State pass rush - uncorked game-changing big plays through the air to tie the game at 21-21 and then take a 31-21 lead with 6:45 to play.  In between, Michigan State botched a pooch kickoff, which robbed Michigan State of a key possession late in the third quarter, and set up Nebraska for a go-ahead field goal early in the fourth. (MORE inside SpartanMag. Join SpartanMag now - $1 for the first week - and enjoy a complimentary year of The Athletic included with your membership.)