Northwestern blocks field goal to edge Michigan State in close matchup

In a tightly contested game on October 17, 2026, Northwestern defeated Michigan State 24-21. The Spartans had a chance to take the lead late in the game, but Liam Boyd's 33-yard field goal attempt was blocked by Matthew Smith. Northwestern's quarterback Aidan Chiles led a game-winning drive after the block, culminating in a 34-yard field goal by Jackson Kleather with two seconds remaining. Michigan State, now 2-5 overall and 0-4 in the Big Ten, struggled to secure their first conference win. They will face UCLA next on October 24.

• 8:24 PMYahoo Sports — Blocked Field Goal Dooms Michigan State Against Northwestern