Michigan State Football: Report card for Notre Dame win

The defensive line was looking like the strong point of the team. Malik McDowell was getting constant pressure on DeShone Kizer, laying big hits on him and making him feel uncomfortable in the pocket throughout the second and third quarters, but once the fourth began, the big guys up front disappeared.

While this lack of pressure late in the game can be attributed to the play-calling and the coaching staff backing off an playing prevent instead of bringing a heavy rush, the defensive line still has to figure out a way to get into the backfield with a four-man rush.

Some bright spots were the play of McDowell, who finished with four tackles, as well as Raequan Williams who had two tackles and his first collegiate sack. If these two can continue to wreak havoc in the backfield, the Spartans will have every opposing quarterback on their toes, anticipating big hits.

Unfortunately, McDowell was double-teamed from the second quarter on and never really had a chance to get a sack on Kizer. The Spartans finished with two in this one, which both came when extra pressure was added to the rush.

Dantonio might have to figure out a different combination of D-linemen or even play a few true freshmen if the Spartans want to record a healthy amount of sacks each week. This group was, however, dominant against Notre Dame’s run.