Michigan State Football: Grading the Spartans in non-conference play

Sep 19, 2015; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans receiver Aaron Burbridge (16) celebrates after catching a touchdown pass against the Air Force Falcons during the 1st quarter of a game at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

Wide Receivers: A-

If this was a grade purely on Aaron Burbridge, it would be an ‘A+’ for sure. The senior has filled the very large shoes that Tony Lippett left very nicely. Thus far, he has 405 yards and four touchdowns, eclipsing his totals of full seasons put in the past three years. Burbridge will need to continue this tear through Big Ten play until his cast mates are able to catch up.

Must Read: Big Ten Football Power Rankings: Week 5 edition

R.J. Shelton has shown flashes — five catches for 68 yards against Air Force — but that has been it as he’s been a non-factor in the other three games. Much of the same can be said for Macgarrett Kings Jr. — six catches for 48 yards against Oregon — but, again, non-factor in others. Burbridge cannot do everything on his own and double-teams from opponents will start to come and the supporting cast needs to exploit these opportunities.

Josiah Price has also been bitten by the injury bug. While his catches this year have been down, he has been a go to target for Cook in the red zone, accounting for four of Connor’s nine touchdown passes. Hopefully Price can come back at full strength or close as possible and continue to be a red zone threat as well as get more involved.

Next: Defensive Line