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 tripped up by Michigan State Spartans linebacker Darien Harris (45) during the 1st half of a game at Waldo Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

2. Darien Harris

Darien Harris has to improve his play from last week against Western Michigan. Harris was unnoticeable in that game and the Spartan defense cannot afford to have that this week.

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Oregon will constantly put the pressure on any defense it plays from the tempo and athleticism they have. Harris is going to need to play like a fifth-year senior and help the defense through rough patches.

Missed tackles and an inconsistent linebacking corps were major problems against Western Michigan.

Harris can most certainly help to stabilize each of these areas. He has to be a sure tackler against the Ducks as Oregon will force him to tackle in space as well as one on one looking for its players to break big plays. Excellent tackling in playing in your assignment is a way to at least slow the Ducks down.

Last year, Harris missed a big tackle against Marcus Mariota and the Ducks that opened the flood gates. He still remembers this play and stated that he expects himself to make that play ten out of ten times and not just nine out of ten.

This year no such thing can happen, Harris must lead the Spartans with excellent tackling and making plays all over the field in order for them to win.

Next: 1. Connor Cook