Michigan State Football: 5 takeaways from win over Michigan

Oct 17, 2015; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines wide receiver Amara Darboh (82) makes a catch as Michigan State Spartans defensive back Demetrious Cox (7) goes to tackle in the fourth quarter at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

2. Secondary is depleted

You have to be proud of how these Spartans battled despite being down three members of the secondary — Darian Hicks, Vayante Copeland and RJ Williamson. Everyone played better against Michigan’s aerial attack, but there were some plays which should have ended up in interceptions, but the young guys were thrown into the mix and had trouble locating the ball.

Grayson Miller, a true freshman safety, was tossed into the fire in this game. Dantonio felt more comfortable with Demetrious Cox at the cornerback position opposite Arjen Colquhoun instead of relying on two unproven corners, so he allowed Miller to start at safety alongside Montae Nicholson.

A couple of ducks from Jake Rudock to his receivers were completed despite the coverage being solid due to the fact that these defensive backs didn’t turn around in time.

One such instance I can remember was a toss over the middle of the field which Jehu Chesson caught over an unsuspecting Miller. That cannot happen moving forward against much more potent passing offenses.

Let’s hope the Spartans can get Darian Hicks back soon and maybe even Williamson for the last game of the season — or a surprise appearance against Ohio State on Nov. 21.

There were positives, though, as these young freshmen will only get better and this was the second time in the last three games in which the opposing QB failed to reach the 200-yard mark.

Next: 1. Connor Cook is a big-game master