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Last year, Michigan State needed to win its final game of the regular season to become bowl eligible.

No need for that kind of drama in 2013.

The Spartans have already picked up win No. 6 — and they can expect to be firmly in the Big Ten title hunt when November rolls around.

Michigan State eased past Purdue 14-0 on Saturday to remain one of three teams unbeaten in Big Ten play. The Spartans didn't look sharp at all offensively — and coach Mark Dantonio even considered a quarterback change — but the defense was again up to the challenge.