Michigan State tops Notre Dame on fake field goal in OT

EAST LANSING, Mich. - Punter-holder Aaron Bates threw a 29-yard touchdown pass to Charlie Gantt on a fake field goal in overtime, giving Michigan State a 34-31 victory over Notre Dame last night.

With Dan Conroy lining up for a 46-yard attempt to tie the game in the first overtime, Bates took the snap, stood up and had time to wait for Gantt to come open downfield. Gantt caught the pass for an easy touchdown for the Spartans (3-0).

David Ruffer had given the Irish (1-2) the lead with a 33-yard field goal in OT.

Dayne Crist threw for 369 yards and four touchdowns for the Irish, who got their offense rolling in the second half in their first road game under coach Brian Kelly.

Notre Dame took a 28-21 lead with 13:20 to play in the fourth quarter when Michael Floyd caught a 24-yard touchdown pass from Crist behind two defenders in the back of the end zone.

Kirk Cousins tied it by scrambling to his right and finding B.J. Cunningham along the right sideline for a 24-yard touchdown with 7:43 remaining.

- AP