Michigan State Football: 5 players to watch vs. Wisconsin

Sep 2, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans linebacker Chris Frey (23) gestures to the sidelines during the first half against the Furman Paladins at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 2, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans linebacker Chris Frey (23) gestures to the sidelines during the first half against the Furman Paladins at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 26, 2015; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans linebacker Jon Reschke (33) gestures to student section during the 1st half of a game against Central Michigan at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 26, 2015; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans linebacker Jon Reschke (33) gestures to student section during the 1st half of a game against Central Michigan at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports /

Reschke quietly became one of the leaders of Michigan State’s defense last season, amassing 75 tackles, 5.5 for loss and two sacks in his first full season as a starter. Now, the Brother Rice product appears on the verge of stardom.

Despite missing the Spartans’ opening game against Furman due to a minor injury, Reschke made his presence known often against Notre Dame with eight tackles, a forced fumble and a key interception.

The performance was not shocking considering Reschke was once a four-star recruit, but it was a bit surprising given that it was his first game action coming off an injury. Michigan State’s linebacker group has been lauded as one of the nation’s best, but even that billing may be understated if Reschke continues to play like he did against the Irish.

Middle linebacker Riley Bullough is already a constant force, but it’s apparent that Reschke has taken another step forward in his development. A versatile backer who is capable of playing all three linebacker positions, Reschke will be counted on heavily against a Badgers squad that will be looking to establish the run, but also an intermediate passing game with a new quarterback under center.