Michigan State Football: Top 7 plays of the season so far

Oct 17, 2015; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans wide receiver R.J. Shelton (12) runs the ball against the Michigan Wolverines during the 1st quarter of a game at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

3. R.J. Shelton catch vs. Rutgers

Who would have thought that R.J. Shelton would have made two of the biggest catches of the year to help salvage the Spartans’ perfect record? The junior slot receiver is already having his best season as a Spartan, catching a career-high 21 passes for 224 yards and a touchdown through seven games, setting himself up to be a top receiver next year.

Many would argue the fact that Shelton has a chance to be the No. 1 guy next season, but plays like this one against Rutgers with the game on the line would argue to the contrary:

With a big third-and-nine looming, Connor Cook had one big throw to make, and he put the ball where only his guy could get it. However, it also happened to be placed right where if his wide out caught the ball, it would be a miraculous reception.

Shelton’s not a big guy, standing just 5-foot-11, but you wouldn’t have been able to tell by the way he rose up over the defender to make the snag and keep MSU’s hopes alive against Rutgers.

The game was tied at 24 with yet another inferior opponent knocking on MSU’s door, trying to steal a win, but Shelton just wouldn’t allow that.

Besides making this great catch, Shelton had a nice toe-tapping reception against the Wolverines for a 27-yard gain in the second half.

Next: 2. Aaron Burbridge circus catch