Michigan State Football: Top 50 players of all time

Nov 28, 2015; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans head coach Mark Dantonio leads his team onto the field prior to a game against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

38. Carl Banks

During Carl Banks’ time at Michigan State, the Spartans were absolutely pitiful. In fact, from 1980-83, when Banks starred, the hard-hitting linebacker was on a Michigan State team which finished just 14-29-1 over four years. He was considered one of the most feared defenders of his time, forcing defenders to run away from him most of the time.

Banks was selected to three first-team All-Big Ten teams, a rare feat for skill position players at Michigan State. In fact, he was the first non-kicker at MSU to earn such honors, which is surprising seeing as the Spartans have had some impressive talent and two-time All-Americans such as George Webster and Bubba Smith in the 1960s.

On a lackluster Muddy Waters roster from 1980-82, the Spartans had one shining talent that happened to be an All-American during his senior season in 1983 once George Perles took over. He was one of the best linebackers in Michigan State history and the NFL also had the pleasure of watching him play — the New York Giants selected him No. 3 overall in 1984.

The linebacker was a two-time Super Bowl champion, one time Pro Bowl selection and a member of the 1980s NFL All-Decade Team.

Next: 37. Joe DeLamielleure