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Michigan State Football: 5 reasons LJ Scott could be Big Ten’s best RB in 2018

By Connor Muldowney

SAN DIEGO, CA - DECEMBER 28: LJ Scott #3 of the Michigan State Spartans runs past Robert Taylor #2 of the Washington State Cougars for a touchdown 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: LJ Scott #3 of the Michigan State Spartans runs past Robert Taylor #2 of the Washington State Cougars for a touchdown 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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ANN ARBOR, MI – OCTOBER 07: Madre London #28 of the Michigan State Spartans celebrates after scoring with teammate Luke Campbell #62 during the second quarter of the game against the Michigan Wolverines at Michigan Stadium on October 7, 2017 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. (Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images)
ANN ARBOR, MI – OCTOBER 07: Madre London #28 of the Michigan State Spartans celebrates after scoring with teammate Luke Campbell #62 during the second quarter of the game against the Michigan Wolverines at Michigan Stadium on October 7, 2017 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. (Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images) /

3. More experienced offensive line

With another year under their belts, the offensive line should have enough firepower to open major running lanes. Last year, the unit was relatively inexperienced with first-year starters Cole Chewins and Luke Campbell starting at the tackle spots and freshman Kevin Jarvis rotating in at guard with Tyler Higby and David Beedle. Add in freshman Jordan Reid who played extensively and you have one of the youngest units in the Big Ten.

That youth led to some frustration in the backfield. Although the line did a solid job of protecting Brian Lewerke all season, it struggled to open adequate running lanes.

In fact, LJ Scott averaged just 4.3 yards per carry and most of his long runs were when he made something out of nothing. He stayed on his feet and made things happen even when it looked like he’d run for three yards and a cloud of dust.

With this entire unit back, it looks like Michigan State could have one of the more gelled, experienced lines in the conference now. What a difference a year makes.

Campbell and Chewins are All-Big Ten caliber tackles, Reid and Jarvis could be stars as sophomores and Higby and Beedle are veteran pieces up front with proven track records.

The offensive line will pave the way for a huge season by Scott.

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