On January 1, 2014, #4 Michigan State defeated #5 Stanford 24–20 in the 100th Rose Bowl, securing a historic victory and the program’s first Rose Bowl win in over two decades.
On January 1, 2014, Michigan State delivered a statement victory on college football’s grandest stage, defeating Stanford 24–20 in the 100th Rose Bowl Game. The win capped a remarkable season for the Spartans and secured one of the most memorable moments in the program’s history.
Entering the game ranked #4, Michigan State faced a physical #5 Stanford team known for its bruising defense and power running game. The matchup lived up to its billing, featuring hard hits, momentum swings, and a dramatic finish. Quarterback Connor Cook led a poised offensive performance, while the Spartan defense held firm late to preserve the narrow victory.
The win marked Michigan State’s first Rose Bowl triumph since the 1987 season and symbolized the program’s return to national prominence under head coach Mark Dantonio. For Stanford, the loss ended hopes of a third consecutive Rose Bowl victory, underscoring just how fine the margins were in this historic matchup.
As the 100th edition of college football’s most iconic bowl game, the 2014 Rose Bowl delivered everything fans hoped for: tradition, intensity, and a finish worthy of its legacy.
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