Michigan coach Hoke apologizes for pregame stake plant at Michigan State

Published Oct. 26, 2014 2:54 p.m. ET

foxsports

EAST LANSING, Mich. -- 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.''