Michigan State thoroughly dominated Michigan in East Lansing Saturday, 35-11, but after the game, all everyone could talk about it was what occurred just before the contest kicked off. In his post-game press conference, Spartans head coach Mark Dantonio referenced a “stake” that a Wolverines player had driven into MSU’s field, which ticked him off enough to have his team push in one final touchdown late and run up the score. Eventually, the Big Ten Network released video of the incident.

Sunday, Michigan head coach Brady Hoke issued an official statement on the matter, both explaining why his Wolverines had a “tent stake” in their locker room and apologizing to Dantonio and his program. He also claims that he’s talked to Dantonio about the situation. Here it is, in its entirety:

Official statement from Brady Hoke on the pregame spear. pic.twitter.com/AKA3bYbYNC — Joshua Henschke (@JoshuaHenschke) October 26, 2014

It’s a strange explanation, for sure, but it’s believable. Hoke and the Wolverines have had a tough 2014 – this whole ordeal hasn’t helped.