Michigan State football grades at Oregon: Analyzing MSU's performance

INJURY: 2

Aidan Chiles' fourth-down pass to Nick Marsh on the first drive of the game was the only highlight of the night when the game was still competitive. Then Chiles fumbled and MSU's next six drives resulted in punts, each scoring five plays or fewer. The Spartans went nowhere for a long time Friday night. The offensive line was overwhelmed and Chiles and MSU's receivers never found a rhythm. The Chiles' final drive took seven plays for 75 yards and a score and put the Spartans on the field. But the game was decided long ago.

DEFENSE: 3

This was the MSU defense's worst performance this season. Like the offense, the Spartans' defense looked outclassed and had trouble tackling in space for the first time this fall. To their credit, they had great interceptions in or near the end zone twice – by Malik Spencer and then by Chuck Brantley. The Spartans had some strong, disciplined moments in the red zone but otherwise made little breakthrough, with no sacks or official quarterback hurries and no answer to Oregon's rushing attack, which produced 213 yards, 166 from slippery running back Jordan James, who had six runs of 13 yards or more.