Michigan State vs Oregon: 5 players who need to step up

Sep 4, 2015; Kalamazoo, MI, USA; Western Michigan Broncos quarterback Zach Terrell (11) is sacked by Michigan State Spartans defensive end Shilique Calhoun (89) during the 2nd half of a game at Waldo Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

5. Shilique Calhoun

Just like Connor Cook, Shilique Calhoun has first-round NFL talent and ‘Bane’ must come to play in the first home game at Spartan Stadium.

Must Read: MSU Football: Game by game predictions for 2015

The easiest way to take pressure off of a secondary against a great passing team is to have a great pass rush. If Calhoun can have a large impact in the game that will bode well for the Spartans chances to come out with a victory.

Shilique has to live in the Oregon backfield. He does not necessarily have to come up with a ton of sacks, although that would be great, but any kind of pressure would be fantastic. Pressure to throw the timing off of Vernon Adams, or to give him happy feet in his first big FBS game has to happen.

Adams cannot have time to set up and make the proper read, he must be uncomfortable all night and that starts with Calhoun.

Obviously Shilique is going to have extra players sent at him, but again drawing penalties or having Vernon Adams throw the pass a second before he should because he hears footsteps is all the Spartans need.

As I said with Lawrence Thomas last week, Calhoun has to be in the backfield so much that he needs to pay rent.

Next: 4. Demetrious Cox