Michigan State Football: 5 reasons the Spartans will win it all in 2015

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

3. Elite trenches

Looking at the trenches, on both offense and defense, you would be hard pressed to find a more feared group in the Big Ten, if not the entire country.

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Offensively, the Spartans have their best group of players since Dantonio took over in 2007. It all starts with the guy in the middle, Jack Allen. The senior center, and current Outland, Rimington and Lombardi watch list member, has been as steady as they come on the line. He’s the leader of the pack and a main reason as to why the offense is so successful.

Add potential first-round draft pick Jack Conklin, equally-talented brother Brian Allen, reliable tackle Kodi Kieler and underrated veteran Donavon Clark to the mix and you have the Big Ten’s best offensive line.

As for the defensive trenches, the front four are nearly unblockable. Senior Lawrence Thomas is former linebacker who moved to defensive tackle and is now the team’s starting end. He’s as intimidating and imposing as they come with his huge frame.

Shilique Calhoun is the star of the defense at the other end position. He’s likely to be a first-round draft pick as well. On the interior, sophomore Malik McDowell and senior Joel Heath can cause some havoc and draw some double teams of their own. There may not be a stronger defensive line in the conference, either.

For both the offense and defense, the depth is unfathomable. If both sides play to potential this year, anything less than a title would be shocking.

Next: 2. Connor Cook