Michigan State Football: 5 biggest questions following spring 2018

Michigan State Football: 5 biggest questions facing Spartans following spring 2018

EVANSTON, IL - OCTOBER 28: Head coach Mark Dantonio of the Michigan State Spartans talks to his team before a game against the Northwestern Wildcats at Ryan Field on October 28, 2017 in Evanston, Illinois. Northwestern defeated Michigan State 39-31 in triple overtime. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /

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EAST LANSING, MI – SEPTEMBER 09: Defensive tackle Raequan Williams #99 of the Michigan State Spartans closes in on quarterback Jon Wassink #16 of the Western Michigan Broncos during the first half at Spartan Stadium on September 9, 2017 in East Lansing, Michigan. Michigan State defeated Western Michigan 24-14. (Photo by Duane Burleson/Getty Images) /

3. Will the defensive line have enough depth?

While the offensive line is somewhat of a question mark heading into the season, the defensive line has been the topic of conversation as well. No, there’s not necessarily panic ensuing over the defensive line talent level, but the depth is concerning.

Starting are Kenny Willekes, Mike Panasiuk and Raequan Williams but Jacub Panasiuk, Dillon Alexander, Justice Alexander and DeAri Todd are vying for time on the other side of the line. There’s been plenty of ‘breakout’ talk about the younger Panasiuk (Jacub), the latter Alexander and Todd.

That’s three ends who could be vying for starting snaps along with Willekes, 2017’s breakout star. In the middle, Gerald Owens and Naquan Jones will add depth. Add incoming freshmen Dashaun Mallory, Parks Gissinger, Zachary and Jacob Slade, and the defensive line should be much deeper than it’s been since 2015.

Barring injuries, this defensive line should have plenty of depth, but there will still be those wondering just how much of a contribution the guys off the bench will provide.

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