While the Spartans may have defeated the Broncos of Western Michigan 26-13, it was clear after last week’s game that Michigan State has issues they need to address. The good news is, they have time.
Michigan State (1-0) will take on the South Florida Bulls (0-1) Saturday at noon in their second home game of the season in what should be another victory for the Spartans.
Jeremy Langford finished last week’s game with 20 carries good for 94 yards, including a two-yard touchdown run late in the first half to give the Spartans the lead. Connor Cook had four carries for 35 yards, couple with 42 passing yards, going 6-for-16 attempts.
Cook was rotated under center with Andrew Maxwell, throwing 11-for-21 attempts good for 74 yards with a 3.5 yard average. Neither quarterback performed well in the season opener, but Cook may be the choice heading towards a collision with #14 Notre Dame in two weeks.
Michigan State needs to put stock in a quarterback who can be used as a duel threat under center. Cook, who is quick on his feet, would create more options for the Spartans, coupled with a decent running game in Langford.
Because of the lack of productivity on the quarterbacks’ part, it is hard to evaluate the receiving core so far this season.
One problem MSU doesn’t have is defense. The Spartans defense gave up just 204 yards, allowing only 11 yards in rushing. Despite giving up 193 yards passing, the Spartans pass coverage played a key factor in the win over the Broncos.
The first score of the game came in the first quarter when Jarius Jones caught his first of two interceptions in the game which he lateraled to Kurtis Drummond for a 21 yard return. A second score on defense came off a fumble return by Shilique Calhoun to give the Spartans a 26-7 lead at the time.
Western Michigan is always a tough, in-state opponent for Michigan State, but the score should have been much more lopsided in theory.
The Spartans need to address their quarterback situation in Week 2 against South Florida with an added cushion when they face the Youngstown State Penguins next week.
Michigan State is likely to lose against Notre Dame this season. The Fighting Irish have held the advantage of the series, going 46-21-1 against the Spartans since their first meeting in 1897. The game will be a lopsided victory if MSU doesn’t fix their offensive problems.
Sparty will earn their second win of the season against South Florida, winning by a larger margin. Don’t be surprised if the Spartans win with a final score of 35-17.
Damien’s Top 5 NCAAF Teams:
1. Oregon
2. Alabama
3. Ohio State
4. Clemson
5. Louisville
