Jackson Kleather delivers a 34-yard game-winner after Brendan Flakes blocks a late field goal, completing Northwestern’s fourth-quarter comeback in a Big Ten thriller.
EAST LANSING, Mich. | Jackson Kleather kicked a 34-yard field goal with five seconds remaining, lifting No. 25 Northwestern to a dramatic 24-21 victory over Michigan State on Saturday at Spartan Stadium.
The Wildcats (5-1, 2-1 Big Ten) erased an eight-point fourth-quarter deficit, survived a late Michigan State scoring threat and marched downfield in the final 65 seconds to secure a crucial Big Ten road victory.
Northwestern's comeback appeared in jeopardy when Michigan State moved into the red zone with less than two minutes remaining. But Brendan Flakes blocked a potential go-ahead field goal, preserving a 21-all tie and giving the Wildcats one final opportunity.
Northwestern capitalized. Griffin Wilde contributed 29 receiving yards on the decisive possession, setting up Kleather's third successful field goal of the afternoon.
"We're not going to play from a platform of fear," Northwestern coach David Braun said. "We were aggressive at the end of the game. Great stop by our defense; our offense goes down and executes — what a finish."

