Michigan State Football: 5 players who could surprise in 2018

ANN ARBOR, MI - OCTOBER 07: Michigan State Spartans head football coach Mark Dantonio talks with his team prior to the start of the game against the Michigan Wolverines at Michigan Stadium on October 7, 2017 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. (Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images) /

5 of 5

With a senior starter returning and two former four-star recruits also in the fold at tight end, it can be easy to overlook Noah Davis.

Must Read: MSU Football: 5 questions that must be answered in 2018

The redshirt sophomore, who started four games and appeared in nine total last season, is unlikely to fade into the pack, though. A product of powerhouse St. Xavier in Cincinnati, Davis has been playing in a pro-style offense for several years and, as a former lacrosse standout, is more athletic than one might assume.

As the second-oldest scholarship tight on the MSU roster, Davis has an advantage to see the field early and often this coming season. From there, it would not be a surprise to see him solidify his spot and even force MSU to consider redshirting true freshman Trenton Gillison.

Next: MSU Football: 5 most underrated 2018 signees

Davis has what it takes to be a solid run blocker in the Big Ten and, despite recording just three receptions last season, can be a reliable target in the passing game, as well. Holding off Gillison and Matt Dotson will not be easy, but I wouldn’t put it past Davis to do just that.

Home/Spartans Football