Michigan State vs Western Michigan: Grading the Spartans

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

Offensive/Defensive lines: A

You really can’t knock this group of players — ever. It seems that with every game, these guys just keep getting stronger. It’s scary to think that we are only one game into the season and they are going to keep gaining confidence as the campaign rolls along.

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Michigan State’s offensive line is probably the best unit in the country. They opened holes for an unproven trio of running backs, including two freshmen, and helped lead the Spartans to 198 yards and three rushing touchdowns. These guys definitely lived up to the billing and will be a force all season long as the running backs gain confidence and trust as well.

As for the defensive line, Shilique Calhoun, Joel Heath, Lawrence Thomas and Malik McDowell all played great. They had a ton of pressure on Zach Terrell in the pocket early in the game and turned it up late as well. The Spartans finished with seven sacks and the main stars played well.

Not only was the pass rush solid, the run defense was exemplary. How good, you ask? How does 18 yards rushing allowed sound? Yes, this unit held the Freshman All-American running back Jarvion Franklin to basically nothing on the ground and this is just the beginning.

Next: Linebackers/secondary