The Spartans were co-champions (with Iowa, Michigan & Illinois) of the Big Ten Conference for the second time in four seasons, with this being their fourth straight bowl appearance.
These two teams had met twice before, one being the season opener in 1987 at Michigan State, and the 1988 Rose Bowl, with the Spartans winning both times.
Amidst a second quarter marred with several penalties, an injury, an ejection, a missed field goal, and two fumbles, Michigan State came out with a touchdown after a turnover.
However, the Spartans quickly struck back, on a Dan Enos touchdown pass to Courtney Hawkins to give them a 14–10 lead.
After the kickoff, Michigan State struck again as Marinovich's first pass on the drive was intercepted by Freddie Wilson, which set up a field goal to increase the lead to 17–10.