Michigan State Football: Dissecting the 2015 depth chart
Jan 1, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Michigan State Spartans wide receiver Aaron Burbridge (16) during the game against the Baylor Bears in the 2015 Cotton Bowl Classic at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Wide Receivers
The wide receiver group is deep, but extremely unproven. With that being said, there are not really any major surprises in the depth chart here, either.
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Losing Tony Lippett and Keith Mumphery will definitely hurt the receiving corps, but there are many returning guys who can ease the pain, as well as some newcomers.
Oct 18, 2014; Bloomington, IN, USA; Michigan State Spartans wide receiver Macgarrett Kings Jr. (85) makes a catch and runs for additional yardage against Indiana Hoosiers linebacker Tegray Scales (8) at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Aaron Burbridge is listed as the starter at the “X” receiver spot with senior AJ Troup as the backup. The depth at that position isn’t pronounced as Edward Barksdale III is the third-stringer, but Troup is severely underrated and I believe Burbridge will lead the team in receiving this year.
At the “Z” spot, Macgarrett Kings Jr. “OR” DeAnthony Arnett is what is listed. This is a big relief to those worried about Kings Jr. and his legal troubles as well as those who are hoping for a big season from Arnett after the hype had died down over the last few unproductive seasons with the Spartans.
Lastly, the “F,” or slot, is also a bit shallow in terms of returning talent. R.J. Shelton, to no one’s surprise, is the starter at the position and will be a force to be reckoned with this year. He finished with 21 catches for 148 yards and two scores last year, but those numbers will rise. Lesser-known Matt Macksood is listed as his backup.
A couple of guys to keep an eye on as possible insertions into the depth chart after a couple weeks are incoming freshmen Darrell Stewart and Felton Davis III. Junior wide out Monty Madaris is another name to watch for.
Next: Tight Ends