Michigan State Football: Top 5 captain candidates for 2018 season

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SAN DIEGO, CA – DECEMBER 28: Andrew Dowell #5 of the Michigan State Spartans tackles Kyle Sweet #17 of the Washington State Cougars during the first half of the SDCCU Holiday Bowl at SDCCU Stadium on December 28, 2017 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) /

One of the more underrated leaders on the team over the past couple of years has been senior linebacker Andrew Dowell. Last year, I thought he could have been a captain, but Chris Frey and Brian Allen were more experienced candidates.

Heading into his final season in East Lansing, he has some of the most experience of anyone on the team, starting games in each of his first three seasons. He has been a central figure of the linebacking corps for the past few years and figures to be an All-Big Ten talent in 2018.

Dowell is one of six seniors projected to be starters in 2018 and he’s coming off a strong season in which he finished second on the team with 75 total tackles to go along with three tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks. He also defended four passes, showcasing his ability to get out in coverage and make life harder on opposing quarterbacks.

The defense could have two captains, both as seniors, this upcoming season, but Dowell may have to settle for being on the leadership counsel.

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