Michigan State Football: 5 breakout candidates vs. Minnesota in Week 7
By Stephen Robb
![ANN ARBOR, MI - OCTOBER 07: Brian Lewerke #14 of the Michigan State Spartans runs for a first down during the second quarter of the game against the Michigan Wolverines at Michigan Stadium on October 7, 2017 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Michigan State defeated Michigan 14-10.(Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images) ANN ARBOR, MI - OCTOBER 07: Brian Lewerke #14 of the Michigan State Spartans runs for a first down during the second quarter of the game against the Michigan Wolverines at Michigan Stadium on October 7, 2017 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Michigan State defeated Michigan 14-10.(Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/39e471844860528f64890512a3a97dd5b69dfff4da4502e106326527f1cd1fdf.jpg)
Gerald Owens has finally found a position as a defensive tackle. He came to Michigan State as a fullback from New Jersey but now is proving that he is capable of being a disruption for opposing offensive lines. He recorded his first career sack at Michigan. His play is making it difficult for Mark Dantonio not to start him.
Owens runs well and uses great leverage when rushing the quarterback. He was around the ball all night at Michigan. It was thought that the defensive line would an area of weakness this year due to all the attrition and graduation, but Dantonio has found another gem in Owens.
The junior tackle appears to be improving each game he takes the field and has become an x-factor on defense. His presence will be a problem for the Gopher run game.