Michigan State Football: Dissecting the 2015 depth chart
Nov 8, 2014; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans offensive lineman Donavon Clark (76) against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports
Offensive Line
During Mark Dantonio’s tenure at Michigan State, the offensive line has been the key to success each season. With a strong rushing attack that has been led by Ringer, Baker, Bell and Langford, it’s safe to say that the guys in the trenches help build NFL talent.
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This is a big season for the Spartans in the running game, so the offensive line will be under the microscope.
Good thing for this year’s line is that it has been regarded as the best since Dantonio took over in 2007. Guys like Jack Allen, Jack Conklin, Donavon Clark, Kodi Kieler and Brian Allen bolster the starting group while the backups at each position are qualified as well.
Aug 29, 2014; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans center Brian Allen (65) prepares to snap the ball to Michigan State Spartans quarterback Connor Cook (18)(not pictured) during the second half of a game at Spartan Stadium. MSU won 45-7. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports
Starting at left tackle is All-American Jack Conklin who is expected to be a first-round draft pick in 2016. The junior is backed up by Dennis Finley, followed by David Beedle — two young guys who will step up next season in Conklin goes pro.
The right tackle is Kieler who may not be a well-known name to most casual Spartan fans, but he’s an important piece. The junior starter is backed up by fellow junior Miguel Machado and redshirt freshman Nick Padla.
Brian and Jack Allen are the starters at left guard and center, respectively. Benny McGowan is the backup to the younger of the two, Brian, at left guard. The sophomore guard is actually the backup to his older brother, Jack, at center with McGowan listed as the third-stringer.
Lastly, the right guard is anchored by Clark, a senior, and he is backed up by fellow senior Brandon Clemons. The depth on the offensive line is unmatchable by any other team in the conference.
Next: Defensive Line