EAST LANSING – The first impression led to mixed reviews.

Michigan State jumped out to a three-score lead early before a lackluster finish offensively in a 23-6 season-opening win against Western Michigan on Friday .

Here are quick takeaways and observations from the game:

* Other than giving up a pair of chunk plays in the passing game, Michigan State’s defense carried the night by pitching a shutout. The few times the Broncos threatened, they were stymied with their lone points on a late pick-6.

Offensively, the Spartans dominated the first half with a strong run game and three touchdowns in the first four possessions before wilting over the final 30 minutes. Given the score and situation, going vanilla down the stretch made sense but the execution wasn’t there.

* Now in his secon

See Full Page