Michigan State Football: 5 breakout candidates vs. Northwestern in Week 9

Everyone has been talking about the play of Cody White from a week ago. The true freshman receiver, and 2016 Michigan Mr. Football, had a strong showing against Indiana to propel the Spartans past the Hoosiers thanks to some clutch, sure-handed receptions.

There may not be a player on the entire team who has stronger hands than White — although some have said that Connor Heyward is the best pass-catcher on the team. He seemed to make all the catches and did so quite easily.

White finished Saturday’s win with six receptions for 99 yards and he also added a 3-yard rush. His biggest play of the game was a 34-yard catch on third-and-long which set the Spartans up for a big game-clinching touchdown. He showed poise in a high-pressure situation, and that’s something that the staff loves to see from true freshmen.

As Brian Lewerke progresses, he’s going to need guys like Rison and White to step up as playmakers, and I’d expect both of them to have big games Saturday. Another breakout showing for White could be on the horizon.