The memories of Michigan State’s upset over Ohio State in 1998 remain vivid for fans and players alike. Ohio State’s football dreams in the 1990s often ended in heartbreak, frequently at the hands of Michigan, who thwarted their Rose Bowl bids several times. However, no defeat was more unexpected or painful than the one delivered by Michigan State on November 7, 1998.
Ohio State, ranked No. 1 and a 28-point favorite, was stunned by the underdog Spartans, led by coach Nick Saban. Despite leading 24-9 in the third quarter, the Buckeyes were unable to hold on. A series of errors, including a fumbled punt recovery by Michigan State, turned the tide. Michigan State capitalized with a touchdown and, despite a missed extra point, began a comeback that would lead to a 28-24 victory.
Former Ohio State receiver Dee Miller expressed frustration, recalling how the game slipped away. “We had pretty good control, then everything changed,” he said. The loss was particularly painful because the Buckeyes were favorites to win, only to falter in the final minutes.
For Michigan State, the victory was monumental. Quarterback Bill Burke and receiver Plaxico Burress were key players in the upset, both putting in standout performances. Burke, reflecting on the game, relished the opportunity to prove himself against his home-state team, saying, “It’s always fun to be the giant killer.”
Two decades later, the memory of that game still lingers, a testament to the unpredictable and thrilling nature of college football. For Ohio State, it remains a painful reminder of a season that might have been.
