Big Ten Issues Statement on Postgame Skirmish Between Michigan and Michigan State Football Teams

The Big Ten Conference has released a statement regarding a postgame altercation that occurred at the end of the football game between the University of Michigan Wolverines and the Michigan State University Spartans on Saturday, October 26, 2024. The incident took place during the final minute of Michigan’s 24-17 victory over Michigan State.

The skirmish began when Michigan tight end Colston Loveland and Michigan State defensive end Anthony Jones engaged in a physical confrontation, pushing, shoving, and butting helmets. This altercation quickly escalated, involving players from both teams who threw punches and rushed to join the fray. Video footage showed Michigan running back Kalel Mullings making a stomping motion, although it was unclear what he was targeting.

Michigan State athletic director Alan Haller requested that the Big Ten review the incident. After conducting a video review, the Big Ten determined that the evidence was inconclusive regarding whether individual disciplinary action was warranted. The conference acknowledged the efforts of staff from both teams, security personnel, and game officials in quickly de-escalating the situation.

This incident is not the first time the two teams have been involved in a postgame altercation. In their previous meeting two years ago, a melee broke out in the tunnel, resulting in seven Michigan State players being charged with crimes and the Big Ten fining the school $100,000. Michigan was also reprimanded for failing to provide adequate protection for personnel.

Despite the seriousness of the incident, the Big Ten has decided to take no disciplinary action against any players or staff involved. The statement from the Big Ten appreciated the responses by both head coaches and the efforts to de-escalate the situation promptly).