EAST LANSING – Malcolm Bell came free off the edge on a corner blitz.

The Michigan State defensive back hit Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood to force a fumble that was recovered by linebacker Jordan Hall.

The Spartans celebrated, expecting to take over at about midfield down only three points early in the third quarter. One problem – a flag lingered on the grass and officials penalized Bell for being offsides on the play.

That wiped out the turnover, put the Wolverines’ offense back on the field and they reached the end zone three plays later. It was a controversial call that shifted momentum in a game No. 25 Michigan (6-2, 4-1 Big Ten) pulled away for a 31-20 win at Michigan State (3-5, 0-5) on Saturday night .

“That’s a gut punch,” Michigan State coach Jonathan Smith said of th

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