Michigan State Football: 5 takeaways from 2018 spring game

SAN DIEGO, CA - DECEMBER 28: Brian Lewerke #14 of the Michigan State Spartans eludes Dylan Hanser #33 of the Washington State Cougars on a run play during the second half of the SDCCU Holiday Bowl at SDCCU Stadium on December 28, 2017 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
SAN DIEGO, CA - DECEMBER 28: Brian Lewerke #14 of the Michigan State Spartans eludes Dylan Hanser #33 of the Washington State Cougars on a run play during the second half of the SDCCU Holiday Bowl at SDCCU Stadium on December 28, 2017 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) /
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2. Connor Heyward looks like a solid No. 2 back

Since LJ Scott didn’t get a ton of carries during the spring game — just six for 22 yards — Connor Heyward was the focus of most of the attention in the backfield, and he didn’t disappoint.

The sophomore has the body type of a Le’Veon Bell, but runs even more downhill than the former Spartan star did. He has a knack for finding the holes up front and running right through them, dragging defenders along the way. He’s strong and could play a Jehuu Caulcrick type of role in the offense this year as a short-yardage back.

The future is bright with him in the backfield and while we didn’t see any Weston Bridges, who could very well contend for No. 2 snaps, Heyward looked to be the future. The Spartans will have a wealth of options to choose from when Scott graduates following the 2018 season.

Michigan State also got a solid contribution from Saginaw Valley transfer, and brother of Lawrence Thomas, Alante Thomas who rushed 10 times for 77 yards and a touchdown.