Michigan State vs Western Michigan: Grading the Spartans

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Sep 4, 2015; Kalamazoo, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans running back Madre London (28) celebrates a touchdown against the Western Michigan Broncos prior to a game at Waldo Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

Running backs: A

This position group was thoroughly impressive to me. Michigan State’s deep group of running backs were solid from top to bottom and the first-year players stole the show.

Madre London began the game as the starter and broke off a 50-plus yard touchdown run in the first quarter for his first-ever score in the green and white. However, it was called back because of a penalty and he settled for a 24-yard touchdown run instead.

London looked very good throughout, rushing 13 times for 59 yards and two touchdowns. Although his 4.5 yards per carry average wasn’t quite what he was looking for, he showed explosiveness and patience to hit the holes.

Gerald Holmes was also effective, rushing nine times for 54 yards and a touchdown. He averaged six yards per carry and looked like a true starter, but got the least amount of carries of the three backs who played.

Lastly, true freshman L.J. Scott completely lived up to the hype. He made sharp cuts, caused defenders to miss and showed a combo of power and speed in the open field. Scott led all rushers with 77 yards on 13 carries.

Next: Receivers

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