Lansing Sun

Michigan State wrestling faced off against CSU Bakersfield on Sunday afternoon at the Icardo Center in Bakersfield, California. Despite a strong comeback effort with three consecutive wins in the middleweight classes, Michigan State fell short with a final score of 21-14.

The match began at 174 pounds where Michigan State's Ceasar Garza secured an early lead for his team with a technical fall victory over Chris Neal, finishing 19-4. However, CSU Bakersfield responded by winning five straight matches to establish an 18-5 lead. This streak included three major decision victories that widened their advantage.

Michigan State attempted to close the gap starting with redshirt freshman Evan Herriman's debut win at 141 pounds, securing a 3-0 victory. Jaden Crumpler followed by moving up to 149 pounds and winning a 5-1 decision, narrowing the deficit further. Braden Stauffenberg continued this momentum with a narrow 6-5 decision win at 157 pounds.

In the concluding bout at 165 pounds, Jay Nivison made his dual debut for Michigan State but was narrowly defeated in tiebreakers by Guillermo Escobedo of CSU Bakersfield, sealing the Roadrunners' victory.

With this result, Michigan State moves to a record of 2-1 in duals for the season. The Spartans will next compete at the Midlands Championships before facing No.1-ranked Penn State on January 10, 2025.