Michigan State Football: Report card against the Wolverines

Oct 17, 2015; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans running back LJ Scott (3) carries the ball between Michigan Wolverines linebacker Joe Bolden (35) and Michigan Wolverines defensive tackle Willie Henry (69) during the 1st quarter of a game at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

Running backs: D+

I really hate to give this position group a grade any lower than a ‘C’ but it was a mixture of poor run blocking and running backs just not being able to find a hole against a tough Michigan rush defense.

The Wolverines allowed under 70 yards per game on the ground, on average, through the first six weeks of the year, and it was obvious the Spartans were feeling the wrath of Michigan’s front-seven as the blitz was on most of the time and the holes were clogged.

Gerald Holmes continues to provide a spark for the run game when it struggles, rushing eight times for 33 yards. L.J. Scott may have had a slow day overall, but he scored two huge MSU touchdowns, which kept this position group from grading out as an ‘F.’

A big reason for the struggle, too, was the absence of redshirt freshman starter, Madre London. The first-year player for Mark Dantonio’s squad was knocked out of last week’s game with a leg injury and did not return, but was listed as doubtful for the game against the Wolverines. He was not dressed and that lack of serious depth hampered the run game.

Delton Williams is still trying to knock off the rust after going five weeks without a touch and the Spartans finished with just 58 total rushing yards — as no back finished with more than eight carries.

Expect a much better performance next week against a mediocre Indiana defense.

Next: Wide receivers