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No. 7 Michigan State rallies from 12-point deficit to beat Rutgers in OT
Jeremy Fears Jr. scores 29 points and adds 9 assists to lead Spartans' comeback
Jan. 27, 2026 at 9:15pm
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No. 7 Michigan State overcame a 12-point second-half deficit to defeat Rutgers 88-79 in overtime on Tuesday night. Redshirt sophomore guard Jeremy Fears Jr. led the Spartans' comeback, scoring 27 of his season-high 29 points in the second half and overtime period. Fears also dished out 9 assists, nearly matching Rutgers' team total. The win extends Michigan State's win streak to 7 games.
Why it matters
This was a potential trap game for the Spartans, who are ranked 7th nationally and have a showdown with 3rd-ranked Michigan coming up on Friday. Rutgers, hovering near the bottom of the Big Ten standings, was looking to pull off a major upset at home. Michigan State's ability to rally from a large deficit and secure the overtime victory shows the team's resilience and character.
The details
Rutgers built a 12-point lead with 9:39 remaining in regulation by slowing the pace and limiting Michigan State's fast-break opportunities. But Fears Jr. took over, scoring 27 of his 29 points in the final 9:39 of regulation and overtime to lead the Spartans' comeback. He also dished out 9 assists, nearly matching Rutgers' team total of 11.
- The game was played on Tuesday, January 28, 2026.
- Rutgers led by 12 points with 9:39 remaining in regulation.
The players
Jeremy Fears Jr.
A redshirt sophomore guard for Michigan State who scored a season-high 29 points and added 9 assists to lead the Spartans' comeback victory.
Steve Pikiell
The head coach of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights, who were looking for their 6th top-10 win under his leadership.
What’s next
Michigan State will host 3rd-ranked Michigan on Friday, January 31, 2026 in a highly anticipated Big Ten matchup.
The takeaway
Michigan State's ability to rally from a large second-half deficit and secure the overtime victory on the road demonstrates the team's resilience and character, which will be crucial as they prepare for a showdown with their in-state rival Michigan later this week.
