 They finished the season 7–6, 3–5 in Big Ten play to finish in fourth place in the Legends Division.They were invited to the Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl, where they defeated TCU, 17–16.Michigan State returns 9 of 11 starters (losing defensive tackle Jerel Worthy and safety Trenton Robinson, in addition to DT Kevin Pickleman, a spot starter) from the nationally ranked 2011 defense, and returns 6 starters on offense, having to replace QB Kirk Cousins, WR B.J.