Michigan State Football: 5 players who will become household names in 2015
Sep 20, 2014; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans defensive back Montae Nicholson (9) picks up a loose ball during the second quarter against the Eastern Michigan Eagles at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports
All the excitement of the 2015 season is almost overwhelming, but when you think about the potential of Montae Nicholson at the safety position, you can’t help but feel giddy.
More from Spartans Football
- Michigan State football: 5 candidates to replace Mel Tucker as head coach
- Michigan State football: 3 not-so-quick takes from rewatching Washington loss
- Michigan State Football: Revisiting Week 3 goals vs. Washington
- Michigan State vs. Washington: How to watch, odds, injuries, weather, prediction
- Michigan State Football: 3 goals and a prediction against Washington
Playing in all 13 games as a true freshman, the Monroeville, Penn., native looked like a future stud in the defensive backfield. That has reigned true thus far as Nicholson has dominated spring practice and scrimmages, looking like a dominant member of the secondary who the Spartans desperately need.
Losing Kurtis Drummond and Trae Waynes from last season, Nicholson has a big job to do. Other than being the leader of the secondary, he will have to step up and set an example for the other guys who are behind him on the depth chart.
It’s not often you see a Mark Dantonio-coached team with a true freshman becoming a leader, but this soon-to-be sophomore is assuming the role.
Many people see Nicholson as a strong safety who can fill in nicely for the departures MSU has faced in the past couple of seasons, but he is much more. Nicholson is a guy who can play both ways and will become an instant superstar, showing he was worthy of his four-star rating out of high school.
Looking for a guy who will become a household name in the Big Ten? Montae is your man.