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Michigan State Football: 5 potential breakout stars for 2017

By Connor Muldowney

Nov 26, 2016; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions wide receiver Saeed Blacknall (13) runs with the ball as Michigan State Spartans defensive back Justin Layne (39) defends during the second quarter at Beaver Stadium. The Nittany Lions won 45-12. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 26, 2016; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions wide receiver Saeed Blacknall (13) runs with the ball as Michigan State Spartans defensive back Justin Layne (39) defends during the second quarter at Beaver Stadium. The Nittany Lions won 45-12. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 8, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans offensive lineman Brian Allen (65) prepares to snap the ball during the first half of a game against the Brigham Young Cougars at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 8, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans offensive lineman Brian Allen (65) prepares to snap the ball during the first half of a game against the Brigham Young Cougars at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports /

When the Spartans took the field for the spring game on April 1, one of the major question marks was the offensive line. After a disappointing 2016 season in the trenches and losing guys like Kodi Kieler and Thiyo Lukusa in the offseason, who would be topping the depth chart? Luke Campbell stood out as a top performer and No. 1 tackle.

Mark Dantonio spoke to the media following the spring game and had nothing but good things to say about Campbell, according to Chris Solari of the Detroit Free Press.

"“Luke Campbell has solidified himself at the right offensive tackle,” Dantonio said. “He’s gotten bigger, he’s over 300 pounds now. He’s a good athlete, he can run, he’s tough.”"

Should this be considered a surprise? Honestly, yes. Campbell came in as a member of the highly-regarded 2016 recruiting class and redshirted last season. He was one of the lowest-rated players in the class and there had been a number of offensive linemen considered bigger threats to start early.

However, Campbell played well during the spring game and with his growing frame, he has earned himself the right tackle spot. If he plays like he did during the spring game in 2017, he could be the biggest surprise in the trenches.

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