MSU Beats Boston College in Double OT Thriller | Chiles Leads Comeback
East Lansing, MI — In a double-overtime classic at Spartan Stadium, quarterback Aidan Chiles overcame early struggles to lead the Spartans to a heart-pounding 42–40 victory over Boston College. He sealed the win with a three-yard touchdown run and a two-point pass to Omari Kelly in the second extra period, giving the Spartans a 2–0 start to the season.
Early Troubles, Maturity in Motion
Chiles’s night began unsteadily. He missed throws on the opening drives, forcing the Spartans to rely on his scrambling ability to keep possessions alive. He finished 19-of-29 passing for 231 yards and four touchdowns while adding 56 yards on the ground.
At one point, an awkward tackle left him hobbling and temporarily sidelined. After the game, Chiles told reporters, “I was trying to waste time for my team. I’m not soft. I’m good. That’s really all I got to say about that. I’m straight.” His return energized teammates and underscored his growing leadership role.
Defensive Breakdowns, Special Teams Spark
Despite the win, Michigan State’s defense couldn’t contain Boston College’s passing game. BC quarterback Dylan Lonergan, a transfer from Alabama, threw for 390 yards and four touchdowns, keeping the Eagles in contention all night.
MSU’s special teams provided critical momentum swings. Punter Ryan Eckley twice pinned BC inside its own one-yard line late in regulation, and kicker Martin Connington hit field goals from 39 and 51 yards to keep the Spartans in striking distance.
The game entered overtime tied 27–27 after BC’s Luca Lombardo hit a late field goal with 1:16 left. In the second overtime, Chiles’s rushing touchdown and two-point strike to Kelly finally gave the Spartans the edge.
Coach Smith and Team Morale
Head coach Jonathan Smith praised both sides afterward, telling reporters, “That was a beautiful football game, really by both teams… I thought going back and forth, competing, obviously into double overtime.” He added that he was “really proud of the guys to just continue to fight and find a way.”
Looking Ahead
The Spartans showed flaws defensively, but Chiles’s dual-threat ability and toughness stood out. If his passing rhythm continues to improve, and the defense can limit explosive plays, Michigan State will be a dangerous team in the Big Ten.
