Michigan State Football: 5 most intriguing freshmen for 2018

ANN ARBOR, MI - OCTOBER 17: Head coach Mark Dantonio of the Michigan State Spartans reacts on the sidelines during the second quarter of the college football game against the Michigan Wolverines at Michigan Stadium on October 17, 2015 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
ANN ARBOR, MI - OCTOBER 17: Head coach Mark Dantonio of the Michigan State Spartans reacts on the sidelines during the second quarter of the college football game against the Michigan Wolverines at Michigan Stadium on October 17, 2015 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
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Michigan State’s running back situation is much thinner and less experienced than it was a season ago, but that doesn’t mean it’s less talented.

Madre London and Gerald Holmes have moved on via transfer and graduation, respectively, leaving LJ Scott to carry most of the load with Connor Heyward and Weston Bridges right behind him. Former defensive back Austin Andrews also switched positions to fill the need at running back, but don’t sleep on Elijah Collins.

The former three-star recruit from Detroit is an explosive back with plenty of versatility, playing multiple positions on both sides of the ball at the prep level — he also played against top competition at U-D Jesuit.

Collins has an impressive burst when he reaches that second level of the defense and knows when to turn on the jets. He can blow by defenders or make them miss, but could afford to add some muscle to that 195-pound frame.

If Scott needs a breather, the staff should consider turning to their star freshman.