Air Force vs Michigan State: 5 takeaways from Spartans’ win

Sep 19, 2015; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans running back Madre London (28) is tackled by Air Force Falcons linebacker Patrick Healy (41) during the 2nd half of a game at Spartan Stadium. MSU won 35-21. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

3. Run game has a long way to go

Although the poor run game was primarily attributed to the poor blocking from the grunts up front, the young running back duo of Madre London and L.J. Scott could not rack up any yards or create any space of their own.

Must Read: Air Force vs Michigan State: What worked/didn’t for MSU

Good running backs take advantage of the solid blocking and huge holes to run through like these guys did against Oregon and Western Michigan. London had 162 yards and two touchdowns through the first two weeks with a couple of long runs, including a 50-plus yard touchdown dash that got called back against Western.

Scott had 153 yards and two touchdowns through those two games while scoring a game-clinching 38-yarder against Oregon and was honored as the co-Big Ten Freshman of the Week.

However, great running backs can find holes when nothing is there, as our very own Thomas Nikundiwe has said. These guys are proving that they have a long way to go in order to be considered great, but we have to remember that they have only played in three college games ever.

The Spartans averaged just 1.8 yards per carry against Air Force and that will need to improve going forward or there will be way too much pressure on Cook.

Next: 2. Aaron Burbridge is the real deal