EAST LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Michigan coach Brady Hoke has apologized to Michigan State for Wolverines players planting a tent stake in the field at Spartan Stadium before Saturday’s game.

No. 8 Michigan State beat Michigan 35-11, the Spartans sixth victory in the last seven games against the Wolverines. Before the game Michigan linebacker Joe Bolden drove a stake into the turf with his teammates gathered around.

Hoke released a statement Sunday apologizing for “our act of poor sportsmanship.”

Hoke says he spoke with Dantonio Sunday.

He says while trying to motivate his team Friday a tent stake was presented to players as a symbol of teamwork. The stake was brought to the locker room Saturday.

Hoke says: “As the leader of our football program, I take full responsibility for the actions of our team.”

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