San Diego, CA – The Washington State Cougars had no answer for Michigan State Spartan quarterback Brian Lewerke in their Holiday Bowl defeat 42-17 Thursday night.
Lewerke ran for 73 yards and threw for another 213 yards with 3 touchdowns to leave his mark on the game. He also took home the Offensive MVP for the game, that was coach Mark Dantonio 100th career win.
“I wouldn’t choose any other coach in the nation to play for,” said Lewerke.
The Spartans did the most damage before the half leading 21-3 at the break. Running back LJ Scott led all rushers with 110 yards and 2 touchdowns. He ran hard as the Spartans ate up the clock to shorten the game.
“I will be back at East Lansing playing another season with my dogs,” said Scott.
With Luke Falk being a late scratch for Washington State the weight of the offensive fell on Sophomore Tyler Hilinski for his first career start.
The Cougars went three and out on offensive that set the tone for the game. The Spartans defense applied enough pressure to keep the Cougars on edge.
In the second half Hilinski made a few key throws to freshman wide receiver Davontavean Martin who caught the only 2 touchdowns for 51 yards for the Cougars.
Cougars coach Mike Leach will be without senior and career passing leader Falk next year that helped him to 25-13 last three years coming into this game.
This Spartan team who had 10 victories this year compared to just 3 wins last year will be a team to reckon with having 77 underclassman.
“We finished fantastic,” said Lewerke, “We going to keep growing and keep working.”
