Air Force vs Michigan State: 5 players who need to step up

Sep 4, 2015; Kalamazoo, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans wide receiver R.J. Shelton (12) turns the corner on the Western Michigan Broncos defense prior to a game at Waldo Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

2. R.J. Shelton

As one of the top offensive weapons on Michigan State has, slot receiver R.J. Shelton is one of those quiet threats who could break out at any time. Shelton has just four catches on the year for a measly 12 yards and no touchdowns just yet.

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Heck, Shelton has more rushing yards (28) than he does receiving yards on the season. That’s not exactly a quality sign for a wide out. The junior receiver will be the most veteran wide out Michigan State will have to begin the 2016 season, so he will need to prove that he can produce this year to ease the mind’s of coaches.

There’s no doubt that Shelton has the talent and potential to be one of the most dangerous players in the conference. He needs to start showing that he’s more than just a slot back who can come around the edge and take a handoff toward the sideline.

Sure, that play works on occasion, but he needs to be more of a short-yardage receiver who can catch in traffic and weasel his way out for a big gain across the middle of the field.

I have no doubts that Shelton will have a solid game against Air Force on Saturday, but until it happens, he will need to step up.

Next: 1. Special teams