Michigan State Football: What worked and didn’t against Nebraska

Oct 24, 2015; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans running back Gerald Holmes (24) jumps over the pile against the Indiana Hoosiers during the 1st half of a game at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

Running Backs

With 4 listed starters, the MSU running back situation is no clearer today than it was week one. In fact, it’s a bit more muddy with the addition of Delton Wiliiams to the mix. Just when it seemed that LJ Scott would solidify the number one role with Madre London’s injury, Gerald Homes has looked like the best back for several straight games.

This was true again on Saturday when Holmes went for a career high 117 yards on 22 caries including a touchdown. LJ Scott ended up with just five yards on three carries; Williams had zero carries, and London sat once again.

What worked: Gerald Holmes

Gerald Holmes seems to be the most confident back the Spartans have right now. He’s running hard and finding creases. He was subbed out when he had a chance to get a first down but danced instead. After that, though, he ran angry and was productive.

What didn’t: One last first down

MSU fans will remember the botched call that allowed Nebraska to get the go-ahead touchdown and they’ll even remember the interception in the end zone that wasn’t by Arjen Colquhoun. But the game could have been salted away with one more first down. The game didn’t need to be out in the hands of the ever shaky defensive backfield if the offensive backfield had gained one more first down. The great backs do it, MSU’s backs didn’t do it.

Next: Wide Receivers