Michigan State Football: Report card for the Spartans win over Maryland

Oct 3, 2015; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans defensive lineman Lawrence Thomas (8) stands on the field during the 1st quarter of a game against the Purdue Boilermakers at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

Offensive/Defensive Lines: B-

This grade was given a big boost by the defensive line. After an abysmal performance against Nebraska, where they got no pressure, they came out aggressive and angry. Challenged by the coaching staff to get more pressure on the quarterback they responded.

Several of the turnovers were caused by pressure on the quarterback as well as a forced fumble by Lawrence Thomas. With a secondary that has often struggled, it is imperative for the defensive line to play at a high level to give them a chance in the defensive backfield, which is exactly what they did against Maryland.

The offensive line is clearly still trying to find itself as they have not played together regularly this season due to injury. Too many times Maryland was able to get pressure on Connor Cook due to missed blocking assignments or from blitzes that were not picked up. He was put on the ground far too much in this game which led to his injury and sitting out of the entire second half.

The running game has yet to get off the ground as expected when the offensive line got back to full strength. Protection and balance will always be what coach Dantonio and Spartan Nation will be looking for and this offensive line needs to find that combination quickly.

Next: Secondary/Linebackers