Michigan State Football: 5 biggest storylines after spring 2018

2. Can this defense become Mark Dantonio’s best?

I know what you’re thinking, nothing can rival the Spartans’ defense from 2013, right? The ‘No Fly Zone’ was in full force with NFL talent such as Darqueze Dennard, Isaiah Lewis, Trae Waynes and the linebacking corps with Denicos Allen and Max Bullough were fearsome. Add in one of the more productive defensive lines, led by Shilique Calhoun, in the nation and you saw the end result: a Rose Bowl win.

The Spartans will be entering a season with more hype than they’ve had since the Connor Cook era. Michigan State brings back all but two starters on the defensive side of the ball from a defense that ranked near the top of the Big Ten and was one of the best in the nation.

Can this defense become the best of the Mark Dantonio era, though?

The ‘No Fly Zone’ could be on its way back with potential future NFL talent in Khari Willis, Josiah Scott, Justin Layne and David Dowell — each has All-Big Ten potential. Joe Bachie may be the best linebacker in the Big Ten, or close to it (Devin Bush is right there, too), Andrew Dowell is back for his fourth year with plenty of starting experience and Tyriq Thompson, Brandon Randle and Antjuan Simmons will add depth.

On the line, the depth may be an issue, but the starters are strong. Raequan Williams and Mike Panasiuk form a scary duo in the middle and Kenny Willekes was a breakout star at end last season — and yes, he’s a former walk-on. Jacub Panasiuk, Naquan Jones, Dillon Alexander, Justice Alexander, DeAri Todd and Gerald Owens provide strong second options.

This may very well be the best defense of the Dantonio era, if it plays to potential.