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

Nov 22, 2014; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans safety Demetrious Cox (7) reacts to a play during the 2nd half of a game at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

4. Demetrious Cox

A lot is going to be asked of Demetrious in this game and he has to answer the call. In last week’s game Cox missed several tackles that allowed for big plays or kept drives alive. This was surprising as Cox is known as one the team’s best tacklers.

Must Read: MSU vs. Western Michigan: Grading the Spartans’ performance

Although a lot can be said for Cox’s poor tackling, the entire Spartan defense seemed to whiff on Western Michigan players left and right.

Oregon coach Mark Helfrich will surely test the new Spartans’ secondary and Demetrious may be asked to not only play corner, but safety as well in certain situations. Wherever he is on the field, he must tackle in space and stick to the man that he assigned to in coverage like glue.

Constant communication between his secondary mates will be needed as well. Last week showed several blown coverages as well as deep balls and plays.

No one is expecting the defense to hold Oregon to 10 points but some plays have to be made to get off the field and get the ball back to the offense. Cox has to step up and make these plays in the secondary as he/they will be tested all night.

Next: 3. Macgarrett Kings Jr.