3 reasons Michigan State isn’t doomed following Ed Davis’ injury
Sep 20, 2014; East Lansing, MI, USA; Eastern Michigan Eagles running back Ryan Brumfield (22) gets tackled by Michigan State Spartans linebacker Chris Frey (23) and defensive back Montae Nicholson (9) during the fourth quarter at Spartan Stadium. Spartans beat the Eagles 73-14. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports
3. Immense depth
Look at the number of start-worthy players there are at linebacker on this squad. Besides the obvious choice in sophomore Chris Frey, who happened to be Davis’ backup, a handful of youthful newcomers have been added to the mix.
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Who are the newcomers? Honestly, there are so many, it’s difficult to keep track of all the talent.
First, you have Drake Martinez. The brother of former Nebraska quarterback Taylor Martinez is a JUCO transfer who was also formerly committed to the Cornhuskers out of high school. He is currently playing at the ‘Star’ linebacker position, but could move over.
Oct 26, 2013; Champaign, IL, USA; Michigan State Spartans linebacker Ed Davis (43) during the game against the Illinois Fighting Illini at Memorial Stadium. Michigan State won 42-3. Mandatory Credit: Pat Lovell-USA TODAY Sports
Next, there’s Tyriq Thompson. The early enrollee freshman linebacker is behind Chris Frey on the depth chart for the “money” linebacker position and it would take a very strong fall camp for him to win the spot.
T.J. Harrell is another young guy, a redshirt freshman, who has received high praise from coaches over the past year and many think he’s the ‘next man up’ at the ‘Star’ linebacker position. Could he switch over to help the team, though?
Lastly, there’s Andrew Dowell. A four-star linebacker, twin of cornerback David Dowell, the incoming freshman has been lighting it up in fall camp thus far and making an impression. He, too, would have to move from ‘Star’ to the ‘money’ linebacker spot as well.
Besides all of those fresh names, you have guys like Sean Harrington, Shane Jones and Jon Reschke looking for a shot. Who will step up? Depth is not an issue.
Next: 2. It happened early