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Michigan State Football: 5 breakout candidates vs. Bowling Green

By Stephen Robb

DETROIT, MI - NOVEMBER 12: A wide view of Spartan Stadium during a college football game between the Michigan State Spartans and the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at on November 12, 2016 in East Lansing, Michigan. The Spartans defeated the Knights 49-0. (Photo by Dave Reginek/Getty Images)
DETROIT, MI - NOVEMBER 12: A wide view of Spartan Stadium during a college football game between the Michigan State Spartans and the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at on November 12, 2016 in East Lansing, Michigan. The Spartans defeated the Knights 49-0. (Photo by Dave Reginek/Getty Images) /
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EAST LANSING, MI – OCTOBER 29: Brian Lewerke #14 of the Michigan State Spartans warms up prior to playing the Michigan Wolverines at Spartan Stadium on October 29, 2016 in East Lansing, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
EAST LANSING, MI – OCTOBER 29: Brian Lewerke #14 of the Michigan State Spartans warms up prior to playing the Michigan Wolverines at Spartan Stadium on October 29, 2016 in East Lansing, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

This is simply a no-brainer breakout star for this game, but he will also be one for the Spartans this season. Brian was baptized by fire last season. He was called upon to save a the sinking ship that was the Spartans.

Now, with an offseason as “the guy”, he has built up the trust of his teammates and coaches alike to take the reigns of the offense. There is a different vibe in the locker room this time around compared to 2016. Lewerke has been working on his chemistry with the receivers and he will no doubt need that as the season begins.

Dantonio has mentioned that he likes Lewerke’s ability to create and run for yardage as plays breakdown. This could be something that Brian will have to do this season. Spartan fans saw him do this much in games last year, however, he has also been working on keeping his eyes down field for opportunities and not to be quick to tuck the pigskin and sprint.

This is a great first test for him to come out and shine and bring hope to a Spartan fan base that has gotten used to winning but saw so little in 2016.

Next: MSU Football: 10 bold predictions for 2017

I would not be surprised if Lewerke threw for 250 yards and tossed two touchdown passes. He certainly has the arm strength and physical tools to be a top-tier Big Ten quarterback. The question going forward will be is he able to take this team back to glory?

The Spartans are forecasted by most pundits to be a six-win team this season. Lewerke is playing for 2017 but also building for 2018.

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