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

Sep 12, 2015; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans safety Montae Nicholson (9) gestures to the crowd during the 2nd half of a game at Spartan Stadium. MSU won 31-28. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

2. Montae Nicholson

Keeping the theme with the Michigan State secondary, and a bit of a surprise, Nicholson needs to play more consistent this week. However, he has made several key and outstanding plays, the interception against Oregon comes to mind. Unfortunately, more poor coverages and missed open field tackles have seemed to occur for the sophomore that possesses such high potential.

Must Read: Air Force vs Michigan State: Grading the Spartans

As Central Michigan brings its high flying offense to Spartan Stadium it’s another opportunity for Nicholson to refine his skills. It will be imperative for Michigan State and for Nicholson to sure up his tackling as the season continues.

Nicholson obviously has all of the physical skills to be a high-impact player. Spartan Nation will be looking for him to react more than think while on the field. This is his first season as full-time starter, as the games go on and he gains more experience I expect the game to slow down for him and at that point things should come more naturally.

Next: R.J. Shelton